|
First Impressions
A miniature spaniel short tail. domed head and squashed face with a wide, up turned muzzle.
The History Of The English Toy Spaniel
Also known as the Ruby Spaniel, King Charles Spaniel, Blenheim Spaniel and Prince Charles Spaniel. They originated in England during the 17th century.
Believed to have originated in China and arrived via Europe. For centuries reputed to be the lapdog of choice of English Royalty. It is unknown if they were ever used for hunting, although they still exhibit vestiges of the instinct to hunt. There are four recognized types that differ only in coloring. This is one of the foundation breeds of the American Kennel Club.
Description Of The English Toy Spaniel
The hanging ears are so long they touch or almost touch the ground and are not altered. The tail is optionally docked to 1.5 inches and covered with hair that is 3 or 4 inches in length. The tail should not carried above back level. The thick coat is medium length and wavy. Ears and feet are heavily coated. In the Black and Tan the hair on its ears is longer than in the other varieties.
The breed averages about 10 inches tall at the shoulder and weighs 9 - 12 pounds.
Coat & Grooming
There are four allowed color patterns: Ruby, Black and Tan ( King Charles), a black body with tan points, and the Blenheim with a white coat with patches of chestnut. A blaze of white up the forehead and ending in a loop with a red dot in the center is required for this color and the Tricolor(Prince Charles) has a white ground with black patches and tan spots over eyes, muzzle, chest and legs.
Temperament
A happy, playful and affectionate breed but it tends towards timidity. Sociable to those who approach it gently and naturally well behaved and clever. They are friendly with other dogs. Needs to be with a lot of people and are usually good with all children as long as they are not too rough. An average barker and a credible watchdog but their primary function is that of a companion dog.
Life Expectancy and Health
The average life span for a is around 10 - 12 years.
Some bloodlines are prone to respiratory ailments, heart disease (MVD), slipped stifle, eye problems and ear infections. The eyes and ears should be cleaned to avoid some of these problems. In common with other short faced breeds, they may wheeze, snore and have trouble breathing in hot weather or from over exertion.
Please read our page on health problems by clicking here.
Preferred Environment and Exercise Requirements
Should be protected from extreme temperatures. It is well suited to apartment life, relatively inactive indoors. Needs very little exercise and is relatively inactive indoors.
For More Information on the English Toy Spaniel
To get more information, check out the English Toy Spaniel web site:
www.etsca.org
There may also be rescue dogs available. Check for details on:
www.etsca.org
Summary
An ideal dog for older people. Difficult to train for obedience exercises but they are naturally good mannered and very loyal
:: English Toy Spaniel Training ::
|
