Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: Size, Lifespan, Health and Care
Quick answer
PDSA, the UK veterinary charity, puts the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel at about 30-33 cm tall and 5.4-8.2 kg, living over 12 years. It suggests at least 1 hour a day, and lists 8 health problems to watch, including heart disease, mostly mitral valve disease, often first heard as a murmur and eye problems including cataracts. Minimum running cost: at least £70 a month, and up to £12,000 over a lifetime.
From PDSA, the UK veterinary charity. Not veterinary advice. Worried about your own pet? See who to call.
On this page (7 sections)
Key facts
| Size | Small |
|---|---|
| Average height | 30-33 cm |
| Average weight | 5.4-8.2 kg |
| Average lifespan | Over 12 years |
| Exercise | At least 1 hour a day |
| Grooming | Daily brushing to prevent matting, more in spring and autumn, and professional grooming a few times a year |
| Cost | At least £70 a month, and up to £12,000 over a lifetime |
Source: PDSA, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel breed information.
Health problems to watch
PDSA lists these for the breed. A higher risk does not mean every animal will be affected; where a screening scheme or test exists, ask the breeder for the parents' results.
- heart disease, mostly mitral valve disease, often first heard as a murmur (Kennel Club scheme)
- eye problems including cataracts (testing available)
- curly coat/dry eye syndrome
- luxating patellas (slipping kneecaps)
- ear problems
- dental disease
- Chiari malformation and syringomyelia (BVA/KC scheme)
- episodic falling
Source: PDSA, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel breed information.
Exercise and grooming
PDSA suggests at least 1 hour a day. Grooming: daily brushing to prevent matting, more in spring and autumn, and professional grooming a few times a year. Source: PDSA, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel breed information.
Temperament
PDSA describes the breed as kind, gentle and loyal; generally good with children and other dogs, usually tolerant of cats. PDSA says they need near-constant company and should never be left alone for more than four hours. Source: PDSA, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel breed information.
Cost
PDSA's figure: at least £70 a month, and up to £12,000 over a lifetime. These are minimums that leave out buying the animal and vet bills for illness or injury. More: annual cost of owning a dog and puppy first-year costs. Source: PDSA, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel breed information.
Questions people ask
How long do Cavalier King Charles Spaniels live?
PDSA gives an average lifespan of over 12 years.
How much exercise does a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel need?
PDSA suggests at least 1 hour a day.
What health problems do Cavalier King Charles Spaniels have?
PDSA lists heart disease, mostly mitral valve disease, often first heard as a murmur (Kennel Club scheme); eye problems including cataracts (testing available); curly coat/dry eye syndrome; luxating patellas (slipping kneecaps); ear problems; dental disease; Chiari malformation and syringomyelia (BVA/KC scheme); episodic falling.
How much does a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel cost?
PDSA's estimate: at least £70 a month, and up to £12,000 over a lifetime.
Sources
- PDSA, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel breed information, read 7 November 2026.
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