Charles spaniels are toy dogs from the Spaniel group and are in the top 5 of the most popular dogs to have as a pet in the UK. It is easily understandable to see why they are such a popular breed as they are one of the nicest natured dogs, they are affectionate, playful, get on well with all animals and children and very patient.

They are a naturally curious dog and they share a love for hunting like the rest of the Spaniel group, this often means that they will chase small animals, ending up running through hedges and causing a little bit of mischief without being concerned about a few scratches so the odd trip to the vets might sometimes be needed. On the whole they are a well behaved dog.

As a breed they are linked to some illnesses, the most common for the breed is; mitral valve disease, these are heart murmurs which are caused by the valve around the heart loosing as they get older, if this carries on to get worse it can often lead to heart failure. They are also linked to getting Syringomyelia, this disease affects the brain and spine due to inflammation around the lower back of the brain meaning there isn’t enough room for their brain causes excess pressure on it, causing the brain to been pushed towards the spinal cord and creating fluid around the area, surgery is most commonly used to treat this.

Due to their floppy and thick ears it is common for them to suffer from ear infections like Primary secretory otitis media, this is when they get thick mucus in their ear, this should be treated as soon as possible in order to prevent them from losing their hearing. You are able to prevent them getting ear infections by regularly cleaning their ears out.

Keeping a Cavalier King Charles spaniel fit and healthy through exercise and a good diet will help to minimise the chances of them becoming ill, although some of the disease liked to the breed are hereditary, it is advised that if you are able to get them tested for any of the common diseases linked to the breed you should as this will mean you can sort out the necessary treatment if needed, another reason to get a good pet cover for them.