English Toy Spaniel

Breed Type: Toy
Common nicknames: ETS, Charlie, King Charles Spaniel
Coat: Double, silky
Hypoallergenic: No, they will likely trigger allergies.
Temperament: Friendly, gentle, patient, eager-to-please
Life expectancy: 10-12 years
Color & patterns: Ruby
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The English Toy Spaniel is a delightful breed that brings a touch of elegance and affection to any home. As a cousin of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, they share a similar lineage and offer the same loving and loyal qualities; with their adorable, expressive eyes and gentle disposition, these pint-sized pups have a way of melting hearts. Despite their small size, they have big personalities and playful spirits that shine through in their interactions. If you’re seeking a cuddly lap dog or a delightful playmate, the English Toy Spaniel is the perfect fit.

English Toy Spaniel characteristics

Learn about about English Toy Spaniel basics like if they're good with kids and other English Toy Spaniels, how much grooming they need, and other facts.

Average height

9-11 inches (22.9-27.9cm)

Average weight

8-17 pounds (3.6-7.7 kg)

Average lifespan

10-12 years

Exercise needs
Low-key activityHigh-energy workouts
Grooming needs
OccasionallyFrequently
Full-grown size
Teeny tinySuper size
Good with cats
Likely to chaseHey, new pal!
Good with kids
Needs lots of supervisionReady to play
Training aptitude
HeadstrongEager to please
Do English Toy Spaniels shed?

Yes, English Toy Spaniels do shed, but their shedding is moderate compared to some other breeds. Regular grooming, including brushing and bathing, helps manage shedding and minimizes the hair in your home.

Are English Toy Spaniels good with cats?

Yes, English Toy Spaniels are good with cats, especially when introduced early and socialized properly. Their gentle nature and small size often make them compatible with feline companions. Ensuring positive interactions and providing safe spaces for both pets will help foster a harmonious relationship.

Are English Toy Spaniels good with other dogs?

Yes, English Toy Spaniels are good with other dogs, especially if they are properly socialized. They are sociable and friendly, which helps them get along well with other dogs. They generally enjoy the company of other dogs. Early socialization with other dogs is crucial so they develop good social skills and positive interactions.

Are English Toy Spaniels good with kids?

Yes, English Toy Spaniels are good with gentle kids. They are affectionate and loving and enjoy being part of family activities and interacting with kids. They have a calm and patient temperament, which helps them tolerate the sometimes energetic and unpredictable behavior of children.

As with any breed, it is recommended that your child is always supervised when interacting with your dog to keep both the child and dog safe. Teaching children how to properly approach and handle dogs is also crucial to ensure positive experiences for both the dog and the child, as is teaching dogs how to interact gently with children.

English Toy Spaniel history

Learn about where this English Toy Spaniel came from!

Is the English Toy Spaniel the same as the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel?

No, the English Toy Spaniel and the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel are different breeds, although they share some similarities and historical connections. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel has a longer muzzle and a more expressive face, while the English Toy Spaniel has a shorter, more pushed-in muzzle. The Cavalier is generally larger and more robust than the English Toy Spaniel.

Where are English Toy Spaniels from?

English Toy Spaniels originated in England. Their history dates back to the 16th century, and they were highly popular among English royalty, including King Charles II, who is credited with popularizing the breed. In England, the breed is called the King Charles Spaniel.

How many types of English Toy Spaniels are there?

There is one type of English Toy Spaniel. In England, the breed is called the King Charles Spaniel.

How long do English Toy Spaniels live?

English Toy Spaniels live 10 to 12 years on average. However, with good care, some can live a bit longer.

When do English Toy Spaniels stop growing?

English Toy Spaniels stop growing around 12 months of age, at which time they achieve their adult height and weight.

English Toy Spaniel temperament

Learn about about the English Toy Spaniel temperament and how well they fit into your lifestyle, home environment, and family.

Do English Toy Spaniels bark?

Yes, English Toy Spaniels bark, but their barking is usually moderate and manageable. They might bark to alert their pet parents or seek attention but are not typically known for excessive barking. Proper training and socialization can help manage their barking behavior.

Are English Toy Spaniels smart?

English Toy Spaniels are considered moderately intelligent. Although they can solve simple problems and follow commands, they might not be as quick or persistent in problem-solving as some other breeds known for high intelligence. Their attention span is short, but they are affectionate and eager to please, so they can still perform well with consistent, positive reinforcement training.

Are English Toy Spaniels friendly?

Yes, English Toy Spaniels are typically friendly dogs. They are affectionate and loving, forming strong bonds with their pet parents and enjoying close companionship. Their gentle and mild-mannered temperament often translates into friendly behavior toward humans and other pets.

Are English Toy Spaniels good pets?

Yes, English Toy Spaniels are good pets for many people. Their small size makes them well-suited for apartment living. They are active but don’t require excessive exercise, making them suitable for various living situations. They are friendly and enjoy interacting with people, and when properly socialized, they can get along well with other pets.

English Toy Spaniels also have a gentle and patient temperament, which makes them suitable for families, including those with children. However, pet parents should always supervise interactions between dogs and kids to ensure that both understand how to behave appropriately around each other.

English Toy Spaniel health

Learn about about the English Toy Spaniel health outlook and what diseases they may be prone to at various stages of their life.

Do English Toy Spaniels have health problems?

Yes, English Toy Spaniels can be prone to certain health problems, though many individual dogs are healthy and live long and happy lives. Some common health concerns found in the breed include:

  • Mitral valve disease: This is a common heart condition in the breed, where the heart’s mitral valve becomes leaky, leading to heart failure.

  • Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA): PDA is a condition where the ductus arteriosus, a blood vessel that is supposed to close shortly after birth, remains open. This can lead to abnormal blood flow between the aorta and the pulmonary artery, causing strain on the heart and lungs.

  • Eye problems: English Toy Spaniels might develop progressive retinal atrophy (PRA, a degenerative eye condition that can lead to blindness), cataracts (clouding of the lens of the eye that can affect vision), and entropion (a condition where the eyelids roll inward, causing irritation and potential damage to the cornea).

  • Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS): Due to their short muzzles, English Toy Spaniels might suffer from breathing difficulties, especially in hot or humid weather.

  • Patellar luxation: A condition where the kneecap dislocates from its normal position, causing lameness or discomfort.

  • Allergies: This breed can be prone to allergies that cause itching, rashes, and other skin issues.

  • Dental problems: Due to their small mouth and crowded teeth, this breed can be prone to dental issues such as plaque buildup and periodontal disease.

  • Hydrocephalus: This condition involves the buildup of cerebrospinal fluid in the ventricles of the brain, leading to increased intracranial pressure. It can be congenital (present at birth) or acquired later in life.

Are English Toy Spaniels hypoallergenic?

No, English Toy Spaniels are not hypoallergenic. Like all dogs, English Toy Spaniels produce dander (tiny flakes of skin), which can be a common allergen. They have a long, silky coat that sheds regularly. Although they do not shed as much as some other breeds, their shedding can still trigger allergies in sensitive individuals.

Popular English Toy Spaniel mixes

Some English Toy Spaniel mixes include:

  • English Speagle (English Toy Spaniel + Beagle)

  • English King (English Toy Spaniel + Cavalier King Charles Spaniel)

  • Eng-A-Poo (English Toy Spaniel + Poodle)

  • Engachon (English Toy Spaniel + Bichon Frise)

English Toy Spaniel Mixes picture

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Adopting an English Toy Spaniel

We don't see any English Toy Spaniels available for adoption in your exact location or cities near you, but here are some adorable similar breeds in Ashburn, VA.