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King Charles Spaniels Dogs

The King Charles spaniel was introduced to England from Spain, and dogs of this attractive toy breed were owned by King Henry VIII and Queen Elizabeth I.

There are four varieties, each variety being exactly the same as the other except in markings: Black and Tan, Blenheim (red and white), Ruby (red), and Tricolor (black, tan, and white). Originally the Tricolor was known as the Prince Charles, but in later years he was amalgamated with the other varieties with the formation of the breed Club. The Black and Tan King Charles is always associated with King Charles II. The first Duke of Marlborough devoted much of his interest to the red and white King Charles, and they enjoyed the luxury of his Blenheim Palace, from which they derived their name. The Tricolor (then Prince Charles) and Ruby came into being much later, appearing in the Kennel Club Stud Book in 1892.

The King Charles spaniel has long been a favorite with the English Court and noblemen. Mary, Queen of Scots, was accompanied to her execution by her little spaniel, and as a prisoner in Carisbrooke Castle King Charles I had his favorite spaniels to comfort him. According to Pepys's Diary, spaniels in the reign of Charles II frequented Hampton Court palace, and were even present on state occasions.

The chief feature of the King Charles spaniel breed is the head, which should have extremely short fore face, with great depth and width, and a high bell-domed skull and fullness over the eyes. Eyes should be very large, dark, and set wide apart. Ears must be very long and well feathered, hanging close to the cheeks. The muzzle should be square, deep, and wide. the cheeks well cushioned up. The ideal weight is 6 Ib to 12 lb. The body must be compact and cobby, legs straight, and movement should be free, active, and elegant.