The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel (CKCS) is loved for its unique appearance, gentle sportiness, and calm, cuddly disposition. With so much to love, you may be interested in bringing a Cavalier into your home. Or, maybe you’re wondering how many happy years you’ll get to spend with your pup. While the breed does have specific health concerns to look out for, with responsible breeding and lots of care, you can extend your Cavalier King Charles Spaniel’s lifespan.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Breed
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The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel breed originated in 16th-century Britain as a companion animal for royalty and nobility. While early Cavaliers were also used to hunt small game, like birds, today’s Cavaliers are prized for their love and loyalty to their owners.
Cavaliers are small dogs—typically between 12 to 13 inches tall and weighing 13 to 18 pounds. They have medium-length coats that come in four varieties: Blenheim (white and reddish-brown), Ruby (copper), Black and Tan, and Tricolor (black, tan, and white). Their silky coats, long ears, and feathered tails give them a sophisticated appearance that’s fit for royalty.
The American Kennel Club has recognized the breed among its 20 most popular dogs for the past 10 years, and the Cavalier is often recommended as a therapy dog for both children and adults. These friendly pups are the perfect choice for a lap dog. They love their humans and will happily lounge on the couch with their family as long as they also receive regular exercise and mental stimulation.
How Long Do Cavalier King Charles Spaniels Live?
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel’s life expectancy is nine to 14 years of age. While the average Cavalier lifespan is 12 years, other factors play into longevity, including genetics, nutrition, and exercise. With proper care and attention to a healthy lifestyle, you may be able to extend your Cavalier’s lifespan.
6 Health Conditions That Impact Cavalier Lifespan
1. Dental Disease
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel breed is predisposed to dental problems such as periodontal disease, which is the infection and inflammation of the gums and structures supporting the teeth. Without proper care, dental disease can cause pain, tooth loss, and other health problems.
Researchers have linked periodontal disease to several systemic health issues, as bacteria from the infected gums can enter the bloodstream and affect other body systems. This is particularly concerning for older Cavaliers, who may already have other underlying health conditions.
- Heart Disease: Bacteria from oral infections can travel through the bloodstream to the heart, leading to inflammation, infection, clogged arteries, and more. This is especially problematic for Cavaliers, who are already prone to heart conditions.
- Kidney and Liver Disease: Oral bacteria can also affect the kidneys and liver, leading to long-term damage if not addressed.
- Reduced Quality of Life: Pain from untreated dental disease can significantly affect your dog’s behavior and quality of life, leading to weight loss, lethargy, and even more serious complications.
Given the breed’s predisposition to dental issues, regular preventive care is essential for maintaining your Cavalier King Charles Spaniel’s oral health and overall well-being. By practicing proper dental hygiene, scheduling regular veterinary checkups, and staying alert for signs of dental disease, you can help prevent pain, tooth loss, and more serious health complications related to dental problems.
2. Ear Disorders
Cavaliers are at risk for various ear disorders, including primary secretory otitis media (PSOM). Commonly referred to as “glue ear,” PSOM occurs when fluid collects in the middle ear and becomes thick and sticky, resulting in pain, hearing loss, and balance problems. The condition is more common in Cavaliers than any other breed. Treatment typically involves surgical removal of the plug.
The CKCS is also predisposed to congenital deafness, a condition in which the dog is born with impaired hearing or progressively loses hearing as they age. In most cases, congenital deafness in Cavaliers occurs between the ages of three and five, though it may develop more gradually. This condition is often hereditary and is more common in some lines or individuals of the breed.
3. Eye Conditions
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are at a higher risk for various genetic eye conditions that can affect their vision and quality of life.
- Cataracts: The clouding of the lens inside the eye, which is the leading cause of blindness in dogs.
- Corneal dystrophy: A condition that affects the cornea that leads to a cloudy or opaque appearance.
- Keratoconjunctivitis sicca: Also called dry eye syndrome, this condition leads to pain, irritation, and inflammation of the eye.
- Keratitis: An inflammation or infection of the cornea.
- Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA): A degenerative eye disease that affects the retina and leads to blindness.
Many of these conditions may be manageable with early intervention; however, progressive conditions like PRA cannot be cured. Regular health exams and proactive care are essential to maintaining your Cavalier’s eye health and ensuring they live a comfortable, happy life.
4. Hip Dysplasia
Canine hip dysplasia (CHD) is a disorder that affects the hip joint, where the femoral head (thigh bone) doesn’t fit properly into the acetabulum (hip socket) of the pelvis. This malformation can result in abnormal wear and tear on the joint, causing pain, inflammation, and progressive joint damage. Over time, it can lead to arthritis and significant mobility issues. CHD is particularly common in larger breeds, but smaller dogs like Cavalier King Charles Spaniel can also be affected, especially as they age. The condition is often inherited, and while it is more common in certain breeds, environmental factors such as obesity, rapid growth, and excessive exercise can also play a role in the development of hip dysplasia.
You may notice that your Cavalier with CHD appears wobbly and is hesitant to stand or climb stairs. Other common signs of hip dysplasia in dogs include:
- Inactivity
- Limping
- Muscle atrophy
- Unsteady gait
Treatment is dependent on your pet’s symptoms and discomfort. Joint supplements can help reduce inflammation. You can also talk to your vet about prescription medications. Weight management and physical therapy can also help relieve symptoms. In severe cases, surgery may be needed.
5. Mitral Valve Disease
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are particularly vulnerable to mitral valve disease (MVD), a progressive heart condition that impacts the mitral valve in the heart. The mitral valve regulates blood flow between the left atrium and left ventricle, so when it becomes diseased or damaged, it can result in improper blood flow, leading to several complications. Over time, this can cause the heart to become less efficient at pumping blood, and it may eventually progress to heart failure. MVD is one of the most common causes of heart disease in older dogs, and it often affects Cavaliers due to a genetic predisposition.
MVD can be hard to diagnose in the early stages, and many dogs may not show overt signs right away. As the disease progresses, however, more noticeable symptoms begin to emerge. The severity and onset of symptoms can vary, but here are some of the most common signs to watch out for:
- Coughing
- Difficulty breathing
- Exercise intolerance
- Heart murmur
- Low energy
- Weight loss
The diagnosis of MVD is typically made through a combination of tests that assess the heart’s function, the condition of the mitral valve, and any secondary effects on the lungs and other organs. Your vet may perform a chest X-ray, electrocardiogram (ECG), blood tests, and blood pressure measurement along with a physical exam.
While there is no cure for MVD in dogs, your vet will monitor the disease progression and prescribe medication to keep symptoms at bay. Treatment aims to control symptoms, prevent complications, and extend life expectancy.
Lifestyle modification plays an essential role in slowing the progression of this disease and improving your dog’s quality of life. Maintaining a healthy weight is critical for dogs with MVD, which can be done through a balanced diet and moderate exercise. Avoid strenuous exercise that can exacerbate heart problems; instead, opt for regular, gentle walks.
6. Syringomyelia
Syringomyelia (SM) is a serious neurological condition that primarily affects the brain and spinal cord, and it is particularly common in Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. The disease involves the formation of fluid-filled cavities or cysts (known as syrinxes) within the spinal cord or brain, often in the area where the brainstem connects to the spinal cord. These cysts can cause compression and disruption of normal nerve function, leading to various symptoms that can significantly impact your dog’s quality of life.
Symptoms of SM in dogs often begin to appear when the pup is between six months and one year of age. The hallmark signs of the disease are related to pain and discomfort, and many owners initially notice their dog exhibiting unusual behaviors, especially around the neck and head region.
Some of the most common symptoms include:
- Neck scratching
- Pain
- Weakness
- Paralysis
Diagnosis of SM typically involves a combination of a physical examination and an MRI. Unfortunately, there is no cure for SM, and treatment options generally focus on managing symptoms and improving the dog’s quality of life.
Your vet may prescribe steroids like prednisone to reduce inflammation and decrease nerve pressure. Pain relievers like gabapentin or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may also be prescribed to control discomfort. The vet may also prescribe cough suppressants or antispasmodics to manage symptoms like coughing and muscle spasms.
Other Factors That Affect Cavalier Lifespan
While the average lifespan of Cavalier King Charles Spaniels is 12 years, there are many ways to improve your Cavalier’s life expectancy and quality of life.
Exercise
All canines need regular physical activity to support their cardiovascular system and overall health. Just as with humans, this activity should vary to work different muscles of the body. Aim for around 60 minutes of activity daily, which will vary based on your dog’s age and health. Scheduled walks, playtime, and agility training are a great way to ensure your Cav is exercising enough.
Grooming
A regular grooming routine is a fantastic way to support your pet’s health inside and out. A dog’s skin can be an indicator of overall health. Oftentimes, if something is wrong internally, it may show signs on the skin first. Grooming is a great way to monitor your pet’s skin and catch anything concerning before it becomes a more significant problem.
Cavaliers should be bathed at least once or twice per month with a mild dog shampoo to remove dirt, oil, and other buildup. Brush your Cav daily to prevent matting and keep their coat looking glossy.
Because many Cavaliers have light-colored fur around their eyes, they may develop tear stains. To prevent staining, regularly clean around your pup’s eyes with a warm washcloth or tear stain remover. This is also a great time to check your dog’s eyes. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel breed is prone to several eye conditions, so if you notice any changes to your dog’s eyes during grooming, contact your vet.
Cavaliers are also prone to ear infections, so you may wish to use a mild ear cleaner on your pet. Check weekly for signs of infection, such as debris, redness, and odor.
Daily dental care should be a part of your pup’s grooming routine. Regular teeth brushing has been shown to positively affect overall lifespan and prevent painful periodontal problems.
Finally, most dogs require monthly nail trimmings. This timeline may vary based on your pup’s activity level and the surfaces they walk on. Regular trimming will prevent overgrowth, which can be painful for dogs and can lead to joint and mobility issues if left untreated.
Health Checks & Vaccinations
As with humans, regular health checks and vaccinations are a crucial part of preventative care. Your vet can also detect health problems earlier, thus reducing the severity and duration of certain conditions.
Nutrition
A quality diet will significantly benefit your dog’s health. While you may see experts advocating for different diets—raw, vegan, fresh, homecooked—the most essential factor is that your dog gets quality, nutrient-dense meals. Quality dog food will be nutritionally balanced to provide proper amounts of carbohydrates, proteins, fats, and fiber.
If buying a commercial pet food, check the label for whole food ingredients while avoiding dog food that uses filler ingredients. If you’re considering homemade dog food, you’ll need to be a bit more careful to ensure your Cavalier gets all of their nutritional needs. We share eight vet-approved, nutritionally complete dog food recipes to get you started.
You can also boost your pup’s nutrition via supplements, like multivitamins and omega-3 fatty acids. Always buy supplements from reputable brands that use high-quality ingredients. Look for brands that use third-party testing and certifications to ensure your pet is getting what you’re paying for.
Spay & Neuter
A study conducted at the University of Georgia found that the life expectancy of spayed dogs was 26.3% longer, and that of neutered dogs was 13.8% longer. Another study conducted by Banfield Pet Hospitals using a database of 2.2 million dogs showed similar findings, concluding that spayed females live 23% longer and neutered males live 18% longer.
10 Tips To Help Your Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Live A Long Life
1. Work With A Responsible Breeder
While breeders can never guarantee a pup’s health, a responsible breeder will do everything in their power to produce a healthy litter. While their puppy prices may be higher, these dogs are less likely to experience hereditary health concerns, which can help with vet costs in the long run.
2. Neuter Or Spay At The Right Time
Researchers at the University of California, Davis, recommend waiting until after six months of age to spay/neuter your Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. This guideline was created to reduce your pet’s risk of certain cancers and joint disorders. Talk to your vet to learn more about the right time for your furry friend.
3. Visit The Vet Regularly
Staying up-to-date on vet visits is the best way to catch and treat health problems before they become more significant.
4. Encourage Physical Activity
As dogs age, they may struggle with weight gain or mobility issues that often stem from inactivity. Exercise is a key factor in ensuring that your pup ages gracefully. Moreover, exercise helps produce feel-good hormones to keep your pup not only healthy but happy.
5. Seek Mental Stimulation
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are intelligent dogs that require plenty of mental stimulation. Keep their brain sharp and stave off boredom with puzzle feeders, interactive toys, training sessions, sniff walks, and puppy play dates.
6. Feed A High-Quality Diet
While a nutritionally balanced diet is the most crucial, consider recipes that also factor in sourcing and nutrient variety. If possible, choose formulas with antibiotic-free meats and wild-caught fish. Look for recipes that feature plant-based ingredients for antioxidants and other health-supporting phytochemicals. Quality fats, such as those from fish and flaxseed, are great for your pet’s hair, skin, joints, brain, and more.
7. Practice Good Dental Hygiene
While often overlooked, a quality dental routine is crucial for your dog’s health.
8. Provide Training
Cavaliers are intelligent and eager to please, making them quick learners. However, they may be stubborn, so persistence and positive reinforcement are key.
9. Be Safety Conscious
As with any companion pet, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with foods and other substances that are dangerous to dogs. Store household cleaners in closed cabinets, remove toxic indoor plants, and cover your trashcan. You may also consider a GPS collar to track your dog in the event that they stray from home.
10. Give Lots Of Love
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel was originally bred as a companion dog. This breed loves spending time with their owners and thrives best in homes where they are showered with love and attention.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some questions our readers frequently ask about Cavaliers. Don’t see yours? Please ask us in the comments section, and we’ll find the answer for you.
Are Cavalier King Charles Spaniels Healthy?
Unfortunately, the Cavalier does have a number of health issues due to improper breeding. Concerns with health issues have lead to questions of the efficacy of the breed. Breeding of Cavaliers is prohibited in Norway, and a breeding ban has been proposed in other European countries as well.
What Is the Average Lifespan Of King Charles Spaniel?
Similar to the Cavalier, the King Charles Spaniel has a life expectancy of 10-12 years.
Caring For Your Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Are you looking for more tips on how to care for your Cavalier? First, check out our full list of Cavalier King Charles Spaniel health problems. Then, make sure to check out our top pet insurance and dog food picks for the breed.
Why Trust Canine Journal?
Tara is a writer and content creator for Canine Journal, specializing in health and nutrition. She has 8+ years of experience in the wellness industry, where she has worked with countless dog parents on holistic approaches to healing and aging. Tara holds a B.A. in Multimedia Journalism from Simpson College and is also an AFPA-certified holistic nutritionist. She lives with a very good boy named Rio, a Golden Retriever, and Luna and Lucy, his feline siblings.