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Cavalier King Charles Spaniel (Cavie)
| Weight | 13–18 lb (5.9–8.2 kg) |
|---|---|
| Height | 12–13 in (30.5–33 cm) |
| Lifespan | 12–15 years |
| AKC group | Toy Group |
| Origin | England |
| Size class | small |
| AKC popularity | #13 |
Traits
| Energy | ●●●○○ 3/5 |
|---|---|
| Shedding | ●●○○○ 2/5 |
| Grooming needs | ●●○○○ 2/5 |
| Trainability | ●●●●○ 4/5 |
| Apartment fit | ●●●○○ 3/5 |
| Kid-friendly | ●●●●● 5/5 |
| Dog-friendly | ●●●●● 5/5 |
Weighing 13–18 lb (5.9–8.2 kg) and standing 12–13 in (30.5–33 cm) tall, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a small-sized representative of the Toy Group. AKC registration statistics place it at #13 in popularity. Its history begins in England, where the breed was developed for its characteristic work. As with most breeds, males occupy the top of the size range.
How long do Cavalier King Charles Spaniels live? Based on published breed data, a typical lifespan is 12–15 years. Lifespan is influenced by size, since smaller dogs generally outlive larger ones, alongside genetics, body weight, dental care and regular veterinary checkups. Keeping a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel lean, exercised and current on preventive care is the most practical way to reach the upper end of that range. On the size-related aging curve, small-sized breeds like this one age at a moderate pace.
Apartments can work with a solid exercise routine, though more space is preferable. The coat releases little hair, so lint rollers stay mostly idle. Low-maintenance coat: a quick weekly brush and the occasional bath cover it. No low-shedding claim applies here. Allergy sufferers should spend time with the breed before committing.
Expect medium energy — regular walks and a bit of active play go a long way. Eager to please and quick to learn, this breed makes training one of the genuine joys of ownership. This breed is known as an excellent family dog that generally adores children. Multi-pet households rarely pose problems for this sociable breed.
Every number on this page is meant to be used, not just read. The calculators below start from this breed's 7.1 kg average weight, which in our 152-breed database sits heavier than 21% of breeds, and turn it into daily food portions, crate sizing and first-year budget estimates. That percentile is not trivia. Food bills, gear sizing and medication dosing all track body weight. Data comes from the AKC breed profile cited below, and breed-specific health risks are exactly why comparing pet insurance early, while your dog is young and healthy, pays off.
Calculators for your Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Frequently asked questions
How long do Cavalier King Charles Spaniels live?
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels typically live 12–15 years, based on AKC breed data. A healthy weight, dental care and regular vet visits help reach the upper end.
How much do Cavalier King Charles Spaniels weigh?
Adult Cavalier King Charles Spaniels usually weigh 13–18 lb (5.9–8.2 kg), with males toward the higher end.
Are Cavalier King Charles Spaniels good apartment dogs?
They can live in apartments with a consistent exercise routine, though more space is preferable.
Do Cavalier King Charles Spaniels shed a lot?
No. Shedding is light compared with many breeds.
How much does pet insurance cost for a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel?
Plans commonly run about $20–$60 per month for a young adult Cavalier King Charles Spaniel; breed-specific health risks can push quotes higher. See our pet insurance guide for how pricing works.
Related Toy breeds
Yorkshire Terrier · Poodle Toy · Shih Tzu · Pomeranian
Data last verified September 2026 · Sources:AKC Breed Profile