Cavalier King Charles spaniels are tiny dogs who originated in the United Kingdom. The breed has a rather regal and refined past, with a history of being a preferred pet of royalty. Cavalier King Charles spaniels in the modern day are celebrated not only for their affectionate temperaments but also for their lavish coats.
Coat Basic Information
Mature Cavalier King Charles spaniels are equipped with coats of medium length. Their hair has a simultaneously smooth and soft texture, and either has a subtle wave or is completely straight. In terms of color, their coats exist in a handful of color schemes, which are black and tawny, pure red, white-and-black and white-and-reddish-brown. Apart from their basic coats, Cavalier King Charles spaniels have lengthy feathery bunches over their tails, feet, breast regions and ears.
Age for Full Coats
Cavalier King Charles spaniel puppies aren't born with their adult coats. It takes time for their fur to come to fruition. Cavalier King Charles spaniels are usually between 1 and 2 years in age before they have their permanent true coats. This approximate time frame applies to length as well as to the development of coat texture. When these cuties are wee puppies, their coats are still on the short side. If you see a young Cavalier King Charles spaniel who doesn't sport the breed's famous longish locks, don't be surprised. The short hair is just temporary.
Neutering, Spaying and the Coat
Neutering and spaying puppies and adult dogs can sometimes affect their fur. Female dogs who are spayed, for example, often don't shed as much as their intact buddies. If you get your little Cavalier King Charles spaniel puppy fixed, you might notice his fur suddenly taking on a markedly denser and thicker feel.
Adult Coat Grooming
Cavalier King Charles spaniels require frequent grooming sessions in order to keep up their attractive fur. Make a point to give your pet between two and three combing or brushing sessions each week. These dogs aren't particularly big shedders, but they'll shed some. The earlier you start grooming your cutie, the easier it will be for him to acquaint himself to the entire concept. Routine bathing is beneficial for making sure your Cavalier King Charlies spaniel's coat stays fresh and clean. A bath no more than every once or two should do the trick unless he gets filthy.
References
- Vetstreet: Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
- Animal Planet: Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Guide
- DogChannel.com: Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Dog Breed Profile
- Rattlebridge Cavaliers: Judging
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel; Norma Moffat
- Simpatico CKCS: Cavalier Info
- Princess Cavaliers: Bringing Home Your Puppy
- Cruisin' Cavaliers: Caring for a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Puppy
- Partnership for Animal Welfare: Neutering and Spaying