Who this breed is NOT for
Anyone gone long hours (they need company), or anyone unwilling to research a breeder's health testing and budget for possible heart care. Sweet temperament, real medical risks.
Bred to do
Companion and lapdog with a spaniel heritage — bred to be gentle, affectionate company for people.
Exercise needs
Moderate — daily walks and play. Adaptable: happy to hike or to cuddle, but they should not become couch potatoes.
Temperament
Gentle, affectionate, eager to please, sociable with everyone. One of the sweetest, most easygoing temperaments in dogdom. They bond closely and dislike being alone.
Trainability
High — soft, willing, and food-motivated. A good first-time breed temperamentally.
With kids & pets
Excellent with both — patient, friendly, rarely aggressive. A genuine family dog.
Living situation
Great for apartments or houses; adaptable. The main need is company — they struggle when left alone for long hours.
Grooming & shedding
Silky medium coat that needs regular brushing; moderate shedding. Keep ears and feathering clean.
Health & costs
This is the honest hard part. The breed has a high incidence of serious inherited conditions — mitral valve heart disease (very common, often early) and syringomyelia (a painful neurological condition), plus eye and ear issues. Vet costs can be significant. Buy ONLY from a breeder who does cardiac and other health screening; this matters more here than in almost any breed.
Best fit
People wanting a gentle, affectionate, adaptable companion who are home often and can commit to health-conscious sourcing and potential vet costs.
Free guide
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A note from Kerri
Temperament-wise, Cavaliers are as lovely as dogs get — I adore them. But I'd be failing you not to be blunt about the heart and neurological issues in this breed. If you want one, the single most important decision is the breeder: demand health-tested parents, and go in prepared for the possibility of cardiac care.
— Kerri, founder of Floyd's Love
Gear Kerri recommends
A few things that make this easier. As an Amazon Associate, Floyd's Love earns from qualifying purchases — at no extra cost to you.
Hertzko Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush
An effective tool for daily brushing to prevent mats and distribute healthy oils across your dog's coat.
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Oxyfresh Advanced Ear Cleanser for Dogs & Cats
A gentle, vet-approved ear cleaner that helps remove wax and debris without the use of harsh chemicals.
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Virbac C.E.T. Dual-Ended Dog Toothbrush
A soft-bristled brush with a small head is ideal for the final stage of the week-by-week plan to reach the outer surfaces of the teeth.
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WeatherBeeta Reflective Dog Parka
This insulated, waterproof coat provides essential warmth for short-coated or small dogs during cold winter walks.
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Dental Finger Wipes for Dogs and Cats, Fresh Breath, 50 ct
Textured finger wipes designed to gently clean teeth and gums as an alternative for dogs that won't yet tolerate a standard toothbrush.
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Bodhi Dog Paw Balm
Soothes and protects dog paw pads exposed to rough summer walks and hot pavement heat.
Shop thisFloyd's Love is educational. Our lessons, breed guides, and personalized assessments are for general information and preparation only — they are not a substitute for professional veterinary care or advice from a qualified veterinarian or animal behaviorist. Always consult your vet for medical concerns and a qualified professional for behavior issues.