Photo: FleurishN Snezhanna Intrynzik (Zsa Zsa)
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel boasts a regal history, with roots tracing back to the sixteenth century. These small and elegant Toy Spaniels, immortalized in paintings by Titian, Van Dyck, Lely, Stubbs, Gainsborough, Reynolds, and Romney, held a special place in the hearts of European nobility.
In fact, their ardent admirer, King Charles II, made history by decreeing their presence in public spaces. This rule continues in England to this day. However, changing trends and the rise of the Pug led to the decline of the traditional Toy Spaniel, with the exception of the red and white variety bred at Blenheim Palace.
In the mid-nineteenth century, England witnessed a surge in dog shows and breeding, which resulted in the modern King Charles Spaniel. These changes nearly wiped out the breed depicted in classical paintings.
Fortunately, in 1926, Roswell Eldridge, an impassioned American enthusiast, initiated a challenge at the prestigious Crufts Dog Show. He offered prizes to dogs reminiscent of the old King Charles Spaniels. In 1928, a dog named Ann’s Son met the criteria and won the prize, inspiring the formation of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel club, dedicated to upholding the breed’s classic traits.
After years of dedicated effort, the Kennel Club officially recognized the breed in 1945. Today, the breed’s standard, established in the early days of the club, still emphasizes a natural appearance and a deep commitment to preserving traditional qualities. The journey of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel stands as a testament to its enduring elegance and the unwavering dedication of its admirers.
Reference
- History of the breed. CKCSC. 2023. https://ckcsc.org/history
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel History. AKC. 2023. https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/cavalier-king-charles-spaniel/