English Toy Spaniel breed guide

The Charlie, as the breed is sometimes called, is quiet, happy and devoted to its owners. It is forgiving by nature and physically fastidious.

Mostly a companion for owners who want a merry, affectionate pet, the breed keeps traits of its sporting ancestors.

English Toy Spaniels live 10 to 12 years. AKC lists eye conditions, cardiac disease and luxating patellas among the breed-specific screening considerations and dedicated breeders test their stock and share results.

The long, wavy, silky, thick coat should be brushed at least twice a week with a pin brush or soft bristle brush and a long-toothed metal comb helps work out tangles that are starting. Left unattended, tangles and mats are uncomfortable for the dog.

English Toy Spaniels are moderately active: alert, playful and energetic when exercising outdoors and sedate and dignified at home. AKC calls them excellent companions for city dwellers in small apartments who can give them daily walks on lead.

Toy spaniels are famously tied to Britain's Charles I and II, the Merry Monarchs of the 1600s, whose sporty little dogs became symbols of the House of Stuart. Under Charles II, perhaps Britain's most dog-happy monarch before Victoria, toy spaniels were decreed the only dogs allowed in the House of Parliament.

Where Europe's toy spaniels came from is a matter of conjecture: some authorities say miniature spaniels reached Europe from Japan or China in ancient times and others say they were imported to Asia from Spain.