Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Characteristics
Life expectancy: 9 – 13 years
Adult weight: 15 – 25 lbs.
Adult height: 12 – 15 in.
Origin – United Kingdom
The name Cavaliers was given to the supporters of King Charles II during the English wars. This is where the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel gets its name, given the king’s fondness for its spaniels. This is a variation of its parent breed, the King Charles Spaniel. This is a small toy-type breed originating from British territory, which is, as the name suggests, of the spaniel type.
Smaller than usual spaniels, these Cavaliers were bred to be lap dogs. But temperament-wise, they are very playful, affectionate, highly energetic, and sporting. The energy levels are shown when they start chasing almost every moving object around them. But energy is not the only noticeable feature; intelligence is also one of them.
These dogs have gained massive popularity as they now rank 6th in the popularity list in the UK, its parent country. This is also because of their sweet and gentle disposition, which makes them great therapy dogs. One good (but possibly bad) thing is that they are lovers and will not consider anyone as a stranger, making them very ineffective watchdogs.
What is the price of a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel?
This breed may be among the smallest dog breeds in the world, but the price attached to it for its initial buying/adoption costs, medical care, and overall lifetime care, is not so small. This article can help give you a better idea of the lifetime costs of owning a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel before you take one home.
Buying: $2000 – $3500
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel’s price from a known and trusted breeder could be $2000-$3500. Given that these dogs can also be bred for show-dog purposes, the cost can increase to around $4500. Some other factors affecting this cost include age, gender, health, and coat color. The bigger King Charles Spaniel would cost you slightly less, around $1200-$1500.
If you’re looking for a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel for under $800, then you might consider adopting one from a reputed and trusted rescue shelter. An adopted Charles Spaniel puppy price could be as low as $100-$300. Another advantage of choosing to adopt is that the initial vaccines and medical care are usually up to date before you take your dog home, which can save you a couple of hundred bucks more.
Monthly costs for a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Diets: $50-$60
An advantage of owning a small dog is that their food requirements are generally low. Being a toy dog, these cavaliers would need around 1 cup of kibble (may vary according to the age) divided into 2-3 small meals a day. A high-quality, vet-recommended kibble could cost you about $50-$60 per month.
Grooming: $50-$80
The long silky hair of these show dogs require proper and regular grooming to be done. Regular brushing and occasional baths are a must. Nail trimming, teeth, and ear cleaning should also be a part of the routine. A kit containing a couple of brushes, teeth brushing kit, shampoo, etc. can cost you about $50-$80. If you chose to opt for a professional grooming service, the cost can be around $40-$50 per session.
Medical Costs: $400-$7000
During the first years, it is recommended you take your pet to the vet about 3-4 times annually. Vet fees can range from $100 to $300, and could include things like annual wellness exams and blood tests among other recommended preventive care treatments. Other examinations and tests could cost you another $300-$400.
Like all dogs, Cavalier King Spaniels are at risk for developing health conditions during their lifetime. These can include conditions like retinal problems and cataracts, mitral valve heart disease, and a neurological condition called syringomyelia, to name just a few. The costs for treating them may be -
Retinal problems - $400-$500
Heart disease - $2500-$3000 (including lifelong medications and tests)
Syringomyelia - $2000-$5000 (including treatment, therapy, lifestyle changes)
One-time costs for a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Initial Costs: $400-$500
A dog bed, a crate, leash and collars, toys, food and water bowls, and some other miscellaneous costs which could be incurred irrespective of the breed are going to be needed when you decide to bring a dog home. These initial costs could be around $400-$500.
Vaccinations: $280-$300
There are certain core vaccinations that a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel would need. These include distemper, parvovirus, Adenovirus, type 1, Adenovirus, type 2, and rabies. All of these could cost you around $150-$200.
There are certain non-core vaccinations as well that are recommended by most vets. These include parainfluenza, Lyme disease, and leptospirosis. The cost of these vaccines can be around $130-$150.
Microchipping: $50-$70
90% of the lost pets in the U.S. are not found. This is where microchipping can help. 70-80% of microchipped pets find their way back home. The cost can vary from state to state, but the average cost is around $50. Along with a dog license, it could cost an additional 10-20 bucks.
Neutering or Spaying: $150-$400
It is recommended that you get your dog spayed/neutered to help prevent health problems, and to help manage the dogs temperament. The cost can be around $150 for neutering and around $400 for spaying.
Lifetime Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Price
Apart from the buying cost, initial costs, and monthly recurring costs, there could be other costs associated with our Cavalier dog. These can include training classes, clothing, dog sitters, and dog walkers, among other miscellaneous expenses. Adding these costs, you can expect to pay around $20,000-$25,000 over this breed’s lifetime.
How can Spot Pet Insurance help?
Spot accident & illness pet insurance plans offer a wide variety of coverages from microchip implantation to surgeries and prescription food and supplements prescribed to treat your pet’s unexpected accidents and illnesses. (Prescription food and supplements used for general health or weight maintenance are not covered). For an extra cost, Spot plans offer preventive care coverage add-ons to help cover the costs of certain routine vaccinations, annual wellness exams and other preventive care treatments. You can view the add-on preventive care coverage options. Get in touch with us to know more!
Conclusion
Aristocrats as they are, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are not only a treat to the eyes but for the everyday life of the family due to its happy and friendly personality. The cost of maintenance for these small dogs may seem high, but this is where Spot plans can help. Spot plans can cover up to 90% of your eligible vet bills for covered conditions! So, worry less about the expenses and get your Cavalier home!
Happy Parenting to you and Lots of Love to your Pup!
