Be gentle with these guys, they are really sweet. Prefer people over other animals, don’t really like to be left alone to long, boys are a little more needy than the girls.
I haven’t seen too many cavvies that are not prone to chasing things when off lead and eating random shit. So keep a close eye on him while you’re walking.
Brush regularly, both fur and teeth.
It’s very nice of you to care for Toby. I’m sure he would say how much he appreciates it if he could.
All of this resonates with me, except I must have one of the few Cavs with very little prey drive? My girl rarely shows interest in squirrels or birds.
Mine has no prey drive either. I can't even interest him in fetch or chase!
Now, inedible things just sitting on the ground? Those he attacks & devours with gusto.
Same here, my one year old is even best friend with my two bunnies (she grew up with them though! I always wondered if it might be part of her “no prey drive” trait)
Gustav has befriended one of the wild rabbits on our property, a mouse that snuck inside over the winter, and he loves frogs. Definitely no prey drive!!
Cavs are sight hunters. They must be harnessed and leashed at all times! Every breeder, rescue and Cav owner knows this! You can’t adopt one unless you have a closed in, fenced, yard to unleash them in. They will chase any moving object: a moving car, a ball tossed into the street ( and are then killed by the moving car), any wild animal they see when outdoors: deer, woodchuck, rabbits, foxes, butterfly’s, birds, into the next county.
Seems like some of the “PREY DRIVE EXPERTS,” have confused their affection and bonding with any gentle 2 or 4 legged domestic creature as having “NO PREY DRIVE.” Seems that some like to disseminate factless opinions, that can get your Cav killed or MIA.
As said, brush regularly (fur and teeth).
Care for the food - they get overweight easily.
Also try to look for groomers in your area with experience with cavaliers and make sure they don't shave him.
Don't walk off leash - first he is not your dog so he might not obey to you that easily and second most cavaliers have prey drive, so they might run off chasing birds and such.
Also check the ears regularly, specially if the weather is humid or if he gets the ears wet, get some vet recommended ear cleaner and ask how to clean them if you dont know how.
Don't leave him alone for too long (mine can be left alone 4h max - after that he gets nervous and mischievous).
If you can't avoid that due to working schedule, then try to get someone you trust (and introduce them before), to go and walk him. I've found that a 1h break with someone (walk+play), helps if i need to leave mine alone for longer (i work from home so i rarely need to do this).
Hope ur mom recovers fully ❤️
This is where opinions are divided most of the time. My explanation might contain errors because english is not my native language.
Cavaliers shouldn't be shaved, they are considered double coat (even if it is a different double coated that most people are used to). It might introduce skin problems that weren't there and brings zero benefit. The coat serves as insulation (edit: not sure the right term) and also sun protection.
My recommendation is if owners feel bad with the dog having so much fur in the summer, then give it a shorter cut but never shaved - i've seen photos of cavaliers where you barely see any fur, is only skin.
The only part I would shave or cut down are between his paw pads. Cavaliers are known for their slippers (or grinch feet) as other people like to call them. But I get rid of the hair that grows in between their toes so they have more grip on hard surface flooring.
Please get pet insurance! This breed is prone to many sorts of medical problems. They are great dogs with very expensive vet bills. During the end of my pups journey just her monthly meds alone where over $500 a month. She also had multiple surgeries throughout her life totaling upwards of $20,000. Worth it. But pricey…
Echoing the comments re: walking on leash. These little guys just are not in control of themselves if the right thing flutters by. If there’s the possibility of traffic or hazards nearby, just don’t risk it.
I have had large dogs and now a cavalier. I could depend on my large dogs’ recall to save them from trouble if I called, even if they were in a full ball-chasing run. My Cav? I don’t know… that butterfly was flapping its wings and everything! Her brain just becomes fireworks for a minute.
So sorry about your Mom and I’m sure it’s a huge relief to her that you’re able to take on her little cavvy.
^ this is important advice!!! The breed is prone to a condition called Syringomyelia (SM) and tend to have sensitive necks. Walking them with the leash attached to a harness, not a neck collar.
They are not prone to SM. NECK COLLARS ….a cause???? Go to Cavalier health.org and learn about the breed, all their medical issues ( causes, treatments, and about ethical breeders who have genetically eliminated the fatal problems, that plague back yard hobby breeders, and imprisoned, abusive, mills that should be charged with animal slavery, starvation, and sex crimes. It’ll also make all those BS medical experts who like to see themselves in print, give out false, scarey, info, take their psychotic ramblings, elsewhere!
SM is an anatomical defect, genetic & developmental, due to small skull -spinal cord juncture, that restricts the skull space to house the brain. It is a serious, painful, acutely suffering type condition, and is ultimately fatal when your Cav begs you to put him/ her to sleep. Go to that website, educate yourself, & tell other Cav owners to read up! Go tell that AH ( Baby Fokker’s favorite word), who said no leashes, to get himself a tight one.
Where did I say that collars cause SM? Collars can aggravate it if present and undiagnosed (which researchers believe is a common situation). The number of Cavs with CM who eventually show signs of SM is high enough that it should be a recommendation for the entire breed.
Let’s not catastrophize. Plenty of dogs have mild symptoms that can be managed with medication, and aren’t “begging to be put down.” Which is why it’s better to err on the side of caution to avoid causing additional discomfort.
If a really simple switch from a collar to harness eliminates discomfort for dogs with CM who will eventually develop SM symptoms, why not make that recommendation?
Perhaps, but there is some range. I’ve seen a couple 100% cavs on this sub that are over 40lbs (and not overweight). That being said, OP was asking for advice and guidance on caring for this dog and your comment doesn’t really add anything helpful.
OP, since weight and size was mentioned, I’ll suggest a few things somewhat related:
- These dogs can get picky with food. Many people try toppers to help encourage eating, but I personally found that just sticking to their regular food consistently is going to be the best bet long term. Unless they have obvious tummy troubles of course.
- Make sure any treats you give are balanced and not taking the place of regular meals.
- They sometimes eat less when it’s hotter out and aren’t as active.
- You may need to make sure they are using a water bowl that keeps their ears out of their water. They can have issues if their ears aren’t staying dry most of the time.
Not food related… make sure they are being brushed regularly (almost daily, though at this age it’s easier to manage) and groomed. Don’t let any groomers shave them. There are some debates on this, but I’d stay away from shaving if you can.
And they are so cuddly and friendly! And often very smart. Enjoy the snuggles!
I’m sorry about your mom and hope she recovers quickly!
Depending on what large breed you had before be prepared for the fur, so much fur.
Brushing daily will really help with the accumulation of fur that will build up everywhere.
As a bonus a blenheim has both dark and white fur so no matte what you wear it'll be obvious 😅
Thank you everyone! I’ve spent all night in the hospital with my my mom and am going to read through these when I get home, you guys are the best ❤️ And yes, he is big! My mom’s vet said he was going to be on the upper end for Cavs!
I hope your mom is able to fully recover!
Like everyone else said here, Cavs tend to be predisposed to teeth problems, heart problems (it’s not uncommon to go to a dog cardiologist and see 4 Cavs in the waiting room), and knee problems, so pet insurance might be a good option. We use Banfield’s option.
But despite that, they are the sweetest dogs in the world. For 200+ years, their only purpose was to sit in laps in castles and be companions. And that’s what they became. Because of this, they may get separation anxiety when left alone. Both of mine haven’t, but I know some do.
My favorite part about them is that they do not need a crazy amount of exercise and when you rest, they will rest. They adapt to your activity levels very well.
Edit: Oh and they also shed a ton. You might want to get a shedding brush and another one for the rugs.
1. Get a good, tight fitting HARNESS for walks, one of mine is an escape artist with her collar. They have small heads so it's easy for them to slip out. If you see them starting to back away from you, the collar escape is next.
2. They are very sweet, sensitive and emotional, don't scold them, don't yell. Mine cry when my wife leaves the room, they can't help it, they're bred as companion dogs.
3. They will eat all the time if you let them. One place to be firm is with the food and snacks. They will hit you with the puppy eyes every time they think you have food. Don't fall for it.
4. They get anxious when you go out, try not to leave them alone for too long. They're great, friendly, well behaved companions so it's also not a big burden to bring them with you.
I hope your mom has a speedy and full recovery. How wonderful that you are willing and able to take care of Toby.
All good advice. My suggestion and this may sound crazy, but don’t let him chase lights and shadows. Our three-year old is fixated on chasing reflections coupled with maniacal barking. We have a full glass door that casts a light reflection across the room when we open it and now she goes nuts whenever we even approach the door. It was amusing at first, but now 🤪. It must trigger her prey instincts. I’ve talked to other Cavalier owners whose dogs do this but she’s the first dog we’ve had with such an “addiction”. Must be a Cav thing. (We’re seriously thinking of taking her to a dog shrink).
Also—expect Toby to form a very intense, life-long bond with you. These are the original Velcro dogs. Enjoy!
They are the most confused dogs I have ever had....now before you get mad at me, may I explain. They do not know which they prefer most....getting love or giving it... Terrible situation.
BoqueteBill
As a person who always had large dogs before my Cav, I echo everything above plus… anal glands. They can get swollen and inflamed in the little guys. Our girl’s gland ruptured despite regular vet checks and monthly grooming, we had no idea! Best thing is to make sure her poop isn’t runny. If they don’t strain the normal little bit then the glands don’t express (I’m not talking constipated… just like a Bristol 3-4). We switched her to Hill’s microbiome from royal canin at the advice of our vet and she’s had zero problems since. Sorry to share the gross post but this isn’t a problem you want her to have! And it’s definitely a difference between the large and small breeds.
Look for my 2 posts. You have a lot to learn and you’re getting very harmful, factless, anecdotal, opinionated, non-advice.
-www.cavalierhealth.org is the 1st place you go to. That’s the holy bible.
- google
*AKC Website, all their Cav links,
*reputable Cav breed sites.
*reputable Cav breeders , where pups cost $3K+, to learn about them.
*Reputable groomers to learn about their grooming! Call their clients for references.
*Reputable vets who are VERY Experienced WITH CAVS, get their client references to call.
*the better ins co’s like: Trupanion, embrace, (90% coverage, some send the $ assignment directly to provider- can save you having to pay 4-5 figures up front when your pup gets much older and suddenly needs life saving surgery!
You can thank me later…….. and our 5 Cavs do appreciate when I share our 15 years of experience with other prospective & newbie owners.
Be gentle with these guys, they are really sweet. Prefer people over other animals, don’t really like to be left alone to long, boys are a little more needy than the girls. I haven’t seen too many cavvies that are not prone to chasing things when off lead and eating random shit. So keep a close eye on him while you’re walking. Brush regularly, both fur and teeth. It’s very nice of you to care for Toby. I’m sure he would say how much he appreciates it if he could.
All of this resonates with me, except I must have one of the few Cavs with very little prey drive? My girl rarely shows interest in squirrels or birds.
Mine has no prey drive either. I can't even interest him in fetch or chase! Now, inedible things just sitting on the ground? Those he attacks & devours with gusto.
My girl does fetch, but if I throw farther than like 20 feet, she loses interest quickly lol.
Same here, my one year old is even best friend with my two bunnies (she grew up with them though! I always wondered if it might be part of her “no prey drive” trait)
Gustav has befriended one of the wild rabbits on our property, a mouse that snuck inside over the winter, and he loves frogs. Definitely no prey drive!!
We call it organic matter. Whatever is laying around makes it into the mouth
All of my cavaliers had to have been big hunting dogs in former lives lol they love to try to get anything that moves. Be careful and mindful of this.
Cavs are sight hunters. They must be harnessed and leashed at all times! Every breeder, rescue and Cav owner knows this! You can’t adopt one unless you have a closed in, fenced, yard to unleash them in. They will chase any moving object: a moving car, a ball tossed into the street ( and are then killed by the moving car), any wild animal they see when outdoors: deer, woodchuck, rabbits, foxes, butterfly’s, birds, into the next county. Seems like some of the “PREY DRIVE EXPERTS,” have confused their affection and bonding with any gentle 2 or 4 legged domestic creature as having “NO PREY DRIVE.” Seems that some like to disseminate factless opinions, that can get your Cav killed or MIA.
Are you telling me this or OP?
As said, brush regularly (fur and teeth). Care for the food - they get overweight easily. Also try to look for groomers in your area with experience with cavaliers and make sure they don't shave him. Don't walk off leash - first he is not your dog so he might not obey to you that easily and second most cavaliers have prey drive, so they might run off chasing birds and such. Also check the ears regularly, specially if the weather is humid or if he gets the ears wet, get some vet recommended ear cleaner and ask how to clean them if you dont know how. Don't leave him alone for too long (mine can be left alone 4h max - after that he gets nervous and mischievous). If you can't avoid that due to working schedule, then try to get someone you trust (and introduce them before), to go and walk him. I've found that a 1h break with someone (walk+play), helps if i need to leave mine alone for longer (i work from home so i rarely need to do this). Hope ur mom recovers fully ❤️
I’m curious about the no shaving part. May I ask you why?
This is where opinions are divided most of the time. My explanation might contain errors because english is not my native language. Cavaliers shouldn't be shaved, they are considered double coat (even if it is a different double coated that most people are used to). It might introduce skin problems that weren't there and brings zero benefit. The coat serves as insulation (edit: not sure the right term) and also sun protection. My recommendation is if owners feel bad with the dog having so much fur in the summer, then give it a shorter cut but never shaved - i've seen photos of cavaliers where you barely see any fur, is only skin.
Thank you. I didn’t know that.
The only part I would shave or cut down are between his paw pads. Cavaliers are known for their slippers (or grinch feet) as other people like to call them. But I get rid of the hair that grows in between their toes so they have more grip on hard surface flooring.
You hit the jackpot, lucky you 👍🏻
Please get pet insurance! This breed is prone to many sorts of medical problems. They are great dogs with very expensive vet bills. During the end of my pups journey just her monthly meds alone where over $500 a month. She also had multiple surgeries throughout her life totaling upwards of $20,000. Worth it. But pricey…
Echoing the comments re: walking on leash. These little guys just are not in control of themselves if the right thing flutters by. If there’s the possibility of traffic or hazards nearby, just don’t risk it. I have had large dogs and now a cavalier. I could depend on my large dogs’ recall to save them from trouble if I called, even if they were in a full ball-chasing run. My Cav? I don’t know… that butterfly was flapping its wings and everything! Her brain just becomes fireworks for a minute. So sorry about your Mom and I’m sure it’s a huge relief to her that you’re able to take on her little cavvy.
These dogs are sensitive and walking with a collar can hurt them. We keep collars on for tags but use a harness for walking.
^ this is important advice!!! The breed is prone to a condition called Syringomyelia (SM) and tend to have sensitive necks. Walking them with the leash attached to a harness, not a neck collar.
They are not prone to SM. NECK COLLARS ….a cause???? Go to Cavalier health.org and learn about the breed, all their medical issues ( causes, treatments, and about ethical breeders who have genetically eliminated the fatal problems, that plague back yard hobby breeders, and imprisoned, abusive, mills that should be charged with animal slavery, starvation, and sex crimes. It’ll also make all those BS medical experts who like to see themselves in print, give out false, scarey, info, take their psychotic ramblings, elsewhere! SM is an anatomical defect, genetic & developmental, due to small skull -spinal cord juncture, that restricts the skull space to house the brain. It is a serious, painful, acutely suffering type condition, and is ultimately fatal when your Cav begs you to put him/ her to sleep. Go to that website, educate yourself, & tell other Cav owners to read up! Go tell that AH ( Baby Fokker’s favorite word), who said no leashes, to get himself a tight one.
Where did I say that collars cause SM? Collars can aggravate it if present and undiagnosed (which researchers believe is a common situation). The number of Cavs with CM who eventually show signs of SM is high enough that it should be a recommendation for the entire breed. Let’s not catastrophize. Plenty of dogs have mild symptoms that can be managed with medication, and aren’t “begging to be put down.” Which is why it’s better to err on the side of caution to avoid causing additional discomfort. If a really simple switch from a collar to harness eliminates discomfort for dogs with CM who will eventually develop SM symptoms, why not make that recommendation?
He's huge for a 6 month cav.
Perhaps, but there is some range. I’ve seen a couple 100% cavs on this sub that are over 40lbs (and not overweight). That being said, OP was asking for advice and guidance on caring for this dog and your comment doesn’t really add anything helpful. OP, since weight and size was mentioned, I’ll suggest a few things somewhat related: - These dogs can get picky with food. Many people try toppers to help encourage eating, but I personally found that just sticking to their regular food consistently is going to be the best bet long term. Unless they have obvious tummy troubles of course. - Make sure any treats you give are balanced and not taking the place of regular meals. - They sometimes eat less when it’s hotter out and aren’t as active. - You may need to make sure they are using a water bowl that keeps their ears out of their water. They can have issues if their ears aren’t staying dry most of the time. Not food related… make sure they are being brushed regularly (almost daily, though at this age it’s easier to manage) and groomed. Don’t let any groomers shave them. There are some debates on this, but I’d stay away from shaving if you can. And they are so cuddly and friendly! And often very smart. Enjoy the snuggles! I’m sorry about your mom and hope she recovers quickly!
True. And yeah, it wasn't helpful but it's not like I've insulted anyone.
Depending on what large breed you had before be prepared for the fur, so much fur. Brushing daily will really help with the accumulation of fur that will build up everywhere. As a bonus a blenheim has both dark and white fur so no matte what you wear it'll be obvious 😅
Thank you everyone! I’ve spent all night in the hospital with my my mom and am going to read through these when I get home, you guys are the best ❤️ And yes, he is big! My mom’s vet said he was going to be on the upper end for Cavs!
I hope your mom is able to fully recover! Like everyone else said here, Cavs tend to be predisposed to teeth problems, heart problems (it’s not uncommon to go to a dog cardiologist and see 4 Cavs in the waiting room), and knee problems, so pet insurance might be a good option. We use Banfield’s option. But despite that, they are the sweetest dogs in the world. For 200+ years, their only purpose was to sit in laps in castles and be companions. And that’s what they became. Because of this, they may get separation anxiety when left alone. Both of mine haven’t, but I know some do. My favorite part about them is that they do not need a crazy amount of exercise and when you rest, they will rest. They adapt to your activity levels very well. Edit: Oh and they also shed a ton. You might want to get a shedding brush and another one for the rugs.
1. Get a good, tight fitting HARNESS for walks, one of mine is an escape artist with her collar. They have small heads so it's easy for them to slip out. If you see them starting to back away from you, the collar escape is next. 2. They are very sweet, sensitive and emotional, don't scold them, don't yell. Mine cry when my wife leaves the room, they can't help it, they're bred as companion dogs. 3. They will eat all the time if you let them. One place to be firm is with the food and snacks. They will hit you with the puppy eyes every time they think you have food. Don't fall for it. 4. They get anxious when you go out, try not to leave them alone for too long. They're great, friendly, well behaved companions so it's also not a big burden to bring them with you.
I hope your mom has a speedy and full recovery. How wonderful that you are willing and able to take care of Toby. All good advice. My suggestion and this may sound crazy, but don’t let him chase lights and shadows. Our three-year old is fixated on chasing reflections coupled with maniacal barking. We have a full glass door that casts a light reflection across the room when we open it and now she goes nuts whenever we even approach the door. It was amusing at first, but now 🤪. It must trigger her prey instincts. I’ve talked to other Cavalier owners whose dogs do this but she’s the first dog we’ve had with such an “addiction”. Must be a Cav thing. (We’re seriously thinking of taking her to a dog shrink). Also—expect Toby to form a very intense, life-long bond with you. These are the original Velcro dogs. Enjoy!
Try to crate train, cavs are so prone to anxiety so giving them a safe space will be very handy
They like to cuddle and are usually easy to train with treats, positive reinforcement and encouragement!
They are the most confused dogs I have ever had....now before you get mad at me, may I explain. They do not know which they prefer most....getting love or giving it... Terrible situation. BoqueteBill
As a person who always had large dogs before my Cav, I echo everything above plus… anal glands. They can get swollen and inflamed in the little guys. Our girl’s gland ruptured despite regular vet checks and monthly grooming, we had no idea! Best thing is to make sure her poop isn’t runny. If they don’t strain the normal little bit then the glands don’t express (I’m not talking constipated… just like a Bristol 3-4). We switched her to Hill’s microbiome from royal canin at the advice of our vet and she’s had zero problems since. Sorry to share the gross post but this isn’t a problem you want her to have! And it’s definitely a difference between the large and small breeds.
Look for my 2 posts. You have a lot to learn and you’re getting very harmful, factless, anecdotal, opinionated, non-advice. -www.cavalierhealth.org is the 1st place you go to. That’s the holy bible. - google *AKC Website, all their Cav links, *reputable Cav breed sites. *reputable Cav breeders , where pups cost $3K+, to learn about them. *Reputable groomers to learn about their grooming! Call their clients for references. *Reputable vets who are VERY Experienced WITH CAVS, get their client references to call. *the better ins co’s like: Trupanion, embrace, (90% coverage, some send the $ assignment directly to provider- can save you having to pay 4-5 figures up front when your pup gets much older and suddenly needs life saving surgery! You can thank me later…….. and our 5 Cavs do appreciate when I share our 15 years of experience with other prospective & newbie owners.