The Crested Cavalier is a delightful mix of the Chinese Crested and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. These affectionate and lively companion dogs share a deep bond with their owners and love to snuggle up and play with them. They thrive on human attention and require regular exercise to stay happy and healthy.
Crested Cavaliers typically have a lifespan of 11 to 15 years and weigh between 9 and 15 pounds. They stand at a height of 11 to 13 inches and have a slender and graceful physique. Their beautiful, silky coat comes in various colors and requires frequent brushing to keep it looking its best.
It’s important to note that the temperament and appearance of this breed can vary significantly since it is not yet fully established. Nonetheless, Crested Cavaliers are known for their charming personality and make wonderful companions for those willing to give them the love and care they need.
Below, we look at Crested Cavalier dog breed, its history, personality, pros and cons of owning an Crested Cavalier, characteristics, and must-see facts. We will also examine how to care for this breed and much more. Prepare for a tail-wagging adventure into the world of Crested Cavaliers!
| Dog Breed | Crested Cavalier |
| Size | Small |
| Weight | 9-15 lbs (average) |
| Height | 11-13″ (average) |
| Location | United States, United Kingdom |
| Ancestry | Chinese Crested, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel |
| Date of Origin | Unknown |
| Group | Companion |
| Life Expectancy | 10-14 years |
| Price | $800 – $1000 |
| Family | Canidae |
| Scientific Name | Canis Lupus Familiaris |
📖 Breed History
The Crested Cavalier is a unique breed that comes from two very different parent breeds – the Chinese Crested and the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. These two breeds have origins that are worlds apart. The Chinese Crested is believed to have descended from either Mexican hairless dogs or African hairless dogs and was popularized in China for its hunting abilities. It later spread to Europe and North America, but it has never achieved widespread popularity in the United States. On the other hand, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a popular breed in Europe and the United States. It has a long history that dates back to the 1500s and was a favorite breed in England during the 17th century. The breed faced some challenges in the 18th and 19th centuries, but it was restored by American financier Roswell Eldridge in the 1920s. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel was officially recognized by the AKC in 1996.
Given the long history of the parent breeds, it is possible that the Crested Cavalier has been bred in Europe and the United States for over a century. However, it is important to note that the Crested Cavalier is not recognized by the AKC.
🐕 Crested Cavalier Appearance
The Crested Cavalier is built lean and proportionately. Its lengthy legs and hare-like feet allow for an elegant movement. This breed features almond-shaped eyes, high-set ears, and dark, pointy noses. It also has a somewhat flat forehead. With an average weight of 9 to 15 pounds and a height of 11 to 13 inches, Crested Cavaliers are regarded as a toy breed. It has feathering on the ears, chest, legs, and tail along with a medium-length, silky, wavy coat. Dogs that resemble Chinese Cresteds may have parts around the chest and belly that are very short or hairless. The coat can have white or tan patches or markings, as well as apricot, black, white, tan, blue, chocolate, cream, palomino, or slate color combinations.
| 👀 Eye Color | Brown |
| 🐽 Nose Color | Black |
| 🐕 Coat Color | Black, White, Blue, Cream |
⚡ Fun Fact: Crested Cavalier dogs need a lot of social interaction. They desire to always be with someone or around people. This breed hates being left alone.
🐶 Traits & Temperament of Crested Cavalier
The Crested Cavalier makes an elegant, sociable, and energetic family pet. Although courageous like its father Spaniel, it is also kind and friendly toward both humans and children as well as other animals. This breed requires constant human interaction; it thrives in a home where people are around most of the time and are available for play and cuddles at any time! It is a sensitive animal that functions best in situations that are predictable and organized. Given their tiny stature and relatively simple training requirements, crested cavaliers are ideal for urban or apartment life. But keep in mind that while being little, this breed still requires a lot of activity. You can rely on your Crested Cavalier to stay by your side at all times because they do not have significant hunting or wandering instincts. These dogs could actually be happiest just lounging around the house with their owners.
🤝 Are Crested Cavaliers Friendly or Aggressive?
Crested Cavalier dogs are known for their friendly nature towards other animals, making them a great choice for families with pets. They are also very friendly towards strangers and children, enjoying their company and being surrounded by them. Additionally, Crested Cavalier dogs get along well with cats and other dogs, making them suitable for households with multiple pets or for those interested in dog meetups. Furthermore, this breed is considered one of the best options for elderly individuals, as they have a calm and gentle temperament that can provide comfort and companionship.
This breed is known for being:
- Active
- Playful
- Happy
- Alert
- Courageous
- Intelligent
- Friendly
- Affectionate
- Lively
- Gentle
- Social
- Tempered
- Sweet
- Fearless
- Cheerful
- Quiet
- Nonaggressive
- Polite
- Graceful
- Sporty
- No tendency towards nervousness
🐩 Crested Cavalier Care & Maintenance
Although not entirely hypoallergenic, Crested Cavaliers create less allergens thanks to their hair-like coat from their Chinese Crested ancestry. They don’t shed much, but if they have a longer coat, you might need to brush them more frequently. Owners should clip around the dog’s ears, face, and paws during grooming to prevent infection or obstruction of the dog’s mobility. If a pet’s coat is especially long, some owners choose to have it professionally groomed. Like all dog breeds, Crested Cavaliers should have their teeth brushed every day and have their nails cut once to twice a month in addition to receiving a monthly wash. Even though it’s rare, owners should take every measure to safeguard their dog’s hairless parts because the skin around them might be delicate.
Crested Cavalier dogs have a moderate shedding tendency, which is a normal part of their hair growth cycle. Regular brushing can help minimize the amount of hair they shed. The extent of shedding can vary depending on the dog’s overall health and the specific breed type they belong to. As for bath time, it is recommended to give these dogs a bath every 6-8 weeks.
🍖 Food: We recommend 1 cups daily, costing you about $0.75 – $1.00 daily, or around $20.00 – $30.00 a month.
🐾 Exercise: Crested Cavalier dogs have an average exercise need. This breed is satisfied with short walks every weekday and a long ones on weekends.
This dog breed requires to be walked for roughly 8 miles per week, which equates to about 45 minutes of physical activity daily. This consistent moderate exercise regimen will help maintain their physical wellness and significantly contribute to their mental stimulation. Consciously setting aside this time for your furry friend can dramatically enhance their life quality, helping them stay energetic, healthy, and mentally alert.
Did you know: Crested Cavalier dogs have an average energy level, so if you live a semi-active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
❤️🩹 Crested Cavalier Health & Issues
Some of the major concerns for Crested Cavalier Dog Breed can be:
- Patellar Luxation
- Hip Dysplasia
- Lens Luxation
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
While minor concerns include:
- Entropion
🤧 Important: Is Crested Cavalier hypoallergenic? No.
✨ Bonus: Check out cool, creative, and funny names for Crested Cavalier.
⚡ Crested Cavalier Dog Breed Facts
What makes the Crested Cavalier a great choice for families with young children?
The Crested Cavalier is a great choice for families with young children because they are gentle and affectionate towards adults, children, and other animals alike. They thrive in a household where they are around people most of the time and are always ready to engage in play and snuggling.
Is the Crested Cavalier breed considered a suitable breed for apartment living?
Yes, the Crested Cavalier breed is considered a suitable breed for apartment living. Their small size makes them convenient for urban or apartment living. However, it’s important to note that despite their size, they still require a considerable amount of exercise.
How much exercise does a Crested Cavalier require compared to other breeds?
The Crested Cavalier requires consistent daily exercise, similar to other breeds of their size. However, it’s important to note that exercise needs can vary between individual dogs, so it’s best to consult with a veterinarian or a dog trainer to determine the appropriate amount of exercise for your specific Crested Cavalier.
Is the Crested Cavalier breed known for being good with other pets?
The Crested Cavalier breed is known for being good with other pets. They are generally friendly and outgoing, which makes them more likely to get along with other animals in the household.
What are other low-maintenance dog breeds similar to the Crested Cavalier?
Some other low-maintenance dog breeds similar to the Crested Cavalier include the Bichon Frise, Maltese, and Shih Tzu. These breeds also have small sizes, require regular grooming, and are suitable for apartment living.
What are the common health issues that Crested Cavaliers are prone to?
Common health issues that Crested Cavaliers are prone to include dental problems, skin allergies, and eye conditions. Regular veterinary check-ups and proper dental care are important to ensure the overall health and well-being of Crested Cavaliers.
Are Crested Cavaliers known to be easy to train compared to other breeds?
Crested Cavaliers are known to be relatively easy to train compared to some other breeds. Their intelligence and willingness to please make them receptive to training, especially when positive reinforcement methods are used.
Are Crested Cavaliers more prone to separation anxiety compared to other breeds?
Crested Cavaliers can be prone to separation anxiety, especially if they are not properly socialized or if they are left alone for long periods. It’s important to provide them with plenty of mental and physical stimulation and gradually acclimate them to being alone.
Are there any dog breeds similar to the Crested Cavalier that are suitable for people with allergies?
Some dog breeds similar to the Crested Cavalier that are suitable for people with allergies include the Bichon Frise, Poodle, and Portuguese Water Dog. These breeds have hypoallergenic coats that produce less dander, making them more suitable for people with allergies.
What sizes of dogs similar to the Crested Cavalier are best for individuals or families with limited space?
Dog sizes similar to the Crested Cavalier that are best for individuals or families with limited space include small breeds such as the Chihuahua, Pomeranian, and Yorkshire Terrier. These breeds can comfortably live in smaller living spaces.
Is the Crested Cavalier breed known to be good with children with special needs?
The Crested Cavalier breed is generally known to be good with children, including those with special needs. However, it’s always important to supervise interactions between dogs and children and teach children how to properly handle and interact with dogs.
How does the grooming and shedding needs of the Crested Cavalier?
The grooming needs of the Crested Cavalier are moderate. They have a long, silky coat that comes in many color variations and requires regular brushing to prevent tangles and matting. They are moderate shedders, so regular grooming sessions are necessary to keep their coat healthy and free from mats.
We use reliable and publicly available data and resources such as AKC and American Canine Registry to ensure that Crested Cavalier dog breed information is accurate and up to date. If you spot an error, please don’t hesitate to bring it to our attention.
