King Charles Spaniel
Male: 3.6-6.3 kg, Female: 3.6-6.3 kg
25-30 cm at the shoulder
10-12 years
United Kingdom
About the King Charles Spaniel
The King Charles Spaniel, often referred to as the 'Charlie' to distinguish it from its cousin the Cavalier, is a refined and sophisticated toy breed with a rich royal heritage. Characterised by its distinctive domed 'apple' head and short, upturned muzzle, this breed possesses a unique, almost human-like expression that is both soulful and dignified. They are smaller and more compact than the Cavalier, with a sturdy build beneath their luxurious silken coat. In the home, the King Charles Spaniel is a devoted companion that thrives on human presence. While they are famously affectionate with their families, they can be somewhat more reserved with strangers than other spaniels, carrying themselves with a quiet elegance. They are well-suited to indoor living and are particularly prized for their calm, gentle temperament, making them ideal partners for those seeking a tranquil but loyal lapdog.
Breed Standard
Key characteristics from the breed standard
In the show ring, the King Charles Spaniel is a study in aristocratic curves, featuring a magnificent high-domed skull and a very deep stop that is unique to the breed. Their movement is one of distinctive poise—free and elegant without being hurried. Their coat quality is paramount, requiring a heavy, silken texture that flows with the dog's movement, creating a silhouette of pure, historical refinement.
Bred For
Lapdog and companion to royalty and the aristocracy.
Temperament
Reserved, affectionate, intelligent, and happy, with a quiet and stoic nature.
Health Conditions Reported in the Breed
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Exercise Needs
Moderate daily activity including short walks and indoor play; they enjoy exploring but are not high-intensity athletes.
Grooming Needs
High; requires regular brushing to prevent matting in the long, silky coat, especially around the ears, chest, and legs.
Living Suitability
Excellent for apartment living and small homes; they do not require a large yard and are happiest indoors with their owners.
Good with Kids
Good with older, respectful children; their small size and reserved nature make them less suited to very rowdy toddlers.
Good with Other Pets
Generally peaceful with other dogs and cats, though they prefer the company of other calm animals.
Trainability
Highly intelligent but can be independent or stubborn; they respond best to gentle, positive reinforcement and consistent encouragement.
Coat & Colours
Long, silky, and straight, with profuse feathering on the ears, legs, and tail.. Black and Tan (King Charles), Tricolour (Prince Charles), White and Red (Blenheim), and Solid Red (Ruby).
Exercise needs vary by age, fitness, health, weather and individual temperament. Consult your veterinarian for an exercise plan appropriate for your dog.
Things to Consider
Every breed has its quirks — here's what to know
Prospective owners should be aware that King Charles Spaniels are predisposed to Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) due to their flat facial structure. This means they are more likely to experience breathing difficulties or heat intolerance—this doesn't mean every dog will, but keeping them cool and avoiding strenuous exercise in hot weather is important. They are also more likely to be predisposed to Mitral Valve Disease and Syringomyelia, requiring regular veterinary cardiac and neurological screening. Their long, pendulous ears are prone to trapping moisture, which can lead to ear infections; a simple weekly cleaning routine usually manages this well. Like many toy breeds, they are prone to dental crowding and plaque buildup, so a diet including raw meaty bones or regular dental care is beneficial. Additionally, their deep-set eyes can be prone to tear staining or irritations, requiring gentle daily wiping. While they are devoted companions, some may be more likely to develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods—they truly thrive when they are a constant part of their owner's day.
Feeding Guide for Your King Charles Spaniel
Healthy Weight
3.6-6.3 kg
Daily Feeding Amount (general starting estimate)
75g to 190g
For an adult King Charles Spaniel, a fresh raw diet should consist of approximately 2-3% of their ideal body weight daily. For a dog weighing 5kg, this equates to 100g to 150g per day, divided into two meals. Focus on high-quality proteins like Kangaroo or Lamb from Majestik Pet Food, ensuring a balance of muscle meat, edible bone, and organ meat to support their cardiac and joint health.
Feeding quantities are general starting estimates only. Individual needs vary with body condition, weight trends, age, health and activity. Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition — consult a veterinarian for individualised dietary guidance.
Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition. Seek veterinary or qualified canine nutrition guidance for individualised dietary advice. Raw feeding, specific proteins or fresh foods should not be presented as preventing, treating or managing breed health conditions without veterinary diagnosis and supervision.
Majestik's Recommended Feeding Approach
Breed Diet Notes
A high-quality, nutrient-dense fresh or raw diet rich in animal proteins, taurine for heart health, and Omega-3 fatty acids for skin and coat maintenance.
The ideal raw diet for a King Charles Spaniel should prioritise heart-healthy proteins and weight management. Lean options like Majestik Kangaroo or Beef are excellent for maintaining a healthy weight. Adding fatty fish or green-lipped mussel can provide essential Omega-3s to support their silken coat and joint health. Given their small mouths, many Charlies prefer a finer grind or smaller, manageable pieces.
These are general breed-level notes only. The appropriate food and serving amount depend on the individual dog's age, health, body condition, activity and tolerance.
Majestik Recommendation
Majestik BARF meals follow our practical 70/10/10/10 approach: approximately 70% quality meat and protein ingredients, 10% edible bone, 10% vegetables and 10% offal. This gives customers a convenient fresh-food option without needing to source and portion every ingredient themselves.
Our Beef, Lamb and Roo BARF meals provide convenient fresh-food options, with suitable proteins chosen or rotated according to the individual dog.
Suitable for different needs
- Healthy adult: Majestik adult Beef, Lamb or Roo BARF meal.
- Puppy: Majestik Premium Puppy.
- Senior: Majestik Senior Blend.
- Working or highly active dog: Suitable Majestik adult meal with quantity adjusted to workload and body condition.
- Protein trial: One Majestik protein at a time.
Recommended Majestik BARF Meals
This is a practical starting recommendation for healthy dogs. Individual needs vary with age, health, body condition and activity.
King Charles Spaniel Feeding Calculator
Personalised raw and cooked feeding recommendations based on your dog's profile
Ideal — Ribs palpable without excess fat. Visible waist. Abdominal tuck present.
Have a question about your King Charles Spaniel? Dog Health AI
Why Majestik?
Fresh, raw pet food made with integrity in South Australia
Australian Made
Made in Two Wells, South Australia
Freshly Prepared
Real meat, organs, bone & wholefood ingredients
No Fillers
No cheap fillers or artificial preservatives
Family Owned
Locally owned and operated
Local Delivery
Delivery across Adelaide & selected areas
Secure Checkout
Secure payment via Shopify checkout
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Breed Records & Facts
Average Litter Size
2-5 puppies
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References & Sources
Breed information verified against recognised breed authorities and veterinary evidence.