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The Canine Chronicles Directory
English Toy Spaniel
The English Toy Spaniel has a well-feathered, silky coat. The coat comes in four
color varieties: black/tan (King Charles), Red (Ruby ? some have white markings),
White with red markings (Blenheim ? some will have a red "thumb print" on the forehead)
and tri-color (Prince Charles.) This squarely built spaniel has a well-defined stop
and a dome-shaped skull. The large round eyes are dark and the pendant ears are
feathered. The black nose is pug shaped with well-opened nostrils and the teeth
should meet in a level bite. The arched neck is medium in length and merges into
well-laid back shoulders. The square, compact body should have a deep brisket, good
ribs, level topline and a broad back. The forelegs should be well-boned and straight.
Webbed toes are common in this breed. The muscular hindlegs should be angulated
paralleling the hock. The tail is customarily docked.
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Temperament
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The English Toy Spaniels are sweet, loving, gentle, playful and quiet. This breed
needs to be around a lot of people and are sociable around those who are affectionate.
They are generally good with children although they are best with older more gentle
children. They are also friendly with other dogs.
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Height, Weight
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Height: about 10" ; Weight: 9-12 lbs.
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Health Problems
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As with most flat-muzzle dogs, this breed is prone to eye and breathing problems.
They tend to snore and wheeze. Females of this breed tend to need a Cesarean section
in order to give birth.
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Living Conditions
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English Toy Spaniels will do fine in an apartment. They prefer cooler temperatures
and overheat easily.
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Exercise
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Do not exercise this breed in hot weather as they overheat easily and can suffer
from heatstroke.
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Life Expectancy
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About 10-12 years
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Grooming
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This breed is easy to groom requiring regular brushing. They are average shedders.
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Origin
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It is believed that the origins of the English Toy Spaniel can be traced back to
Asian spaniels and possibly the Pug. The breed however, was primarily developed
in Great Britain. They were popular among British royalty and were used as companions.
Mary, Queen of Scots was one who enjoyed this breed. During the 19th century this
breed sustained several changes. They were bred to become smaller, the head became
more domed-shaped, the eyes were protruded more, and the face upturned. All of this
resulted into what is now called the English Toy Spaniel. They are recognized by
the AKC and the UKC.
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Group
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AKC Toy, UKC Companion Dog
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