The English Toy Spaniel is a small, square-bodied dog with a coat that flows like a royal cloak and a merry and affectionate personality. This breed is divided into four varieties based on color: Blenheim (rich mahogany red and white); ruby (rich mahogany red); Prince Charles (white with black and tan markings); and King Charles (black and tan). The coats in Prince Charles and King Charles varieties are longer. The breed appears in numerous noble portraits of the seventeenth, eighteenth, and nineteenth centuries.
History
Authorities agree that the English Toy Spaniel originated in the Far East and later appeared in England, but exact details remain hazy. The black and tan, King Charles, appear to have been the King’s favorite and the emphasis in early breeding programs was on this variety. For a long time, the varieties were bred without reference to color, producing several varieties in the same litter.
Temperament
The English Toy Spaniel is a gentle, happy, and playful loving breed that is naturally well-behaved and intelligent. They are good family companions and play well with children. Their small size makes them ideal for an apartment. All varieties of the English Toy Spaniel are easy-to-groom and require regular twice-weekly combing and brushing.
- Toy Group; AKC recognized in 1886.
- Ranging in size from 8 to 14 pounds.
- Companion dog.
Environment
- Apartment is fine.
- Low activity indoors.
- Thrive in moderate climates.
Exercise
- Light daily exercise is fine.
Grooming
- Regular brushing.
- Average shedding.
