Skip to content
Caninpedia

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel vs King Charles Spaniel

Share
Photo of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel dog breed
Cavalier King Charles SpanielPhoto: Andreweatock — CC BY-SA 3.0 (source)
Photo of the King Charles Spaniel dog breed
King Charles SpanielPhoto: Pleple2000 — CC BY-SA 3.0 (source)

Side by side

Comparison of Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and King Charles Spaniel
TraitCavalier King Charles SpanielKing Charles Spaniel
GroupCompanion and toy dogsCompanion and toy dogs
SizeSmallSmall
Weight5–8 kg3.6–6.3 kg
Height at withers30–33 cm25–27 cm
Life expectancy9–14 years10–12 years
Energy
With children
With other dogs
Trainability
Grooming needs
Shedding
Heat tolerance
ApartmentYesYes

Key differences

  • Heavier: Cavalier King Charles Spaniel (about 6.5 kg vs 5 kg on average)
  • Taller: Cavalier King Charles Spaniel (about 31.5 cm vs 26 cm on average)

Gaps counted as key differences: more than 20% in average weight, more than 10% in average height, at least 2 years in average life expectancy, or at least 2 points on a rating.

Which one is right for you?

A quick guide based on the ratings above. Every dog is an individual: spend time with the breed and talk to breeders, rescue organisations or a veterinarian before deciding.

Apartment living
Both are similarBased on apartment suitability and energy.
Family with children
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is the better fitBased on behaviour with children.
First-time owner
Both are similarBased on trainability, energy and grooming needs.
Hot climate
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is the better fitBased on heat tolerance.
Active owner
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is the better fitBased on energy level.

Meet the two breeds