Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Grooming Guide

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are beloved for their gentle nature and beautiful, flowing coats. Their silky fur requires regular attention to stay healthy and tangle-free.

Understanding the Cavalier Coat

Cavaliers have a medium-length, silky coat with:

• Feathering on ears, chest, legs, and tail
• Moderate shedding
• Prone to tangles, especially in feathering
• No undercoat (single-coated)

Weekly Grooming Routine

Brushing (3-4 times per week)

• Use a pin brush or slicker brush
• Focus on feathered areas
• Comb through with metal comb
• Check behind ears especially

Ear Care

Cavaliers’ long, floppy ears need attention:

• Check inside weekly
• Clean with ear solution
• Watch for infection signs
• Keep ear feathering tangle-free

Professional Grooming Schedule

Every 6-8 weeks for:

• Full bath and blow-dry
• Trimming and tidying
• Nail trimming
• Ear cleaning
• Sanitary trim

Trimming Options

Natural Look (Show Style)

• Minimal trimming
• Neaten feet and sanitary areas
• Maintain natural feathering
• Trim only straggly hairs

Tidied Pet Look

• Shaped feathering
• Trimmed ears (less dragging)
• Neater feet
• Easier maintenance

Puppy Cut

• Shorter all over
• Reduced feathering
• Easiest to maintain
• Great for active dogs

Common Cavalier Grooming Issues

Ear Infections

• Very common in the breed
• Long ears trap moisture
• Clean weekly
• Dry after baths and swimming

Matting

• Behind ears is worst spot
• Armpits and behind legs too
• Regular brushing prevents mats
• Use detangling spray

Tear Staining

• Common, especially in lighter colors
• Keep face clean and dry
• Use tear stain products
• Rule out eye problems

Skin Allergies

• Some Cavaliers prone to allergies
• May cause excessive scratching
• Use gentle products
• Consult vet if severe

Bathing Tips

• Brush before bathing
• Use gentle, moisturizing shampoo
• Condition the feathering
• Rinse thoroughly
• Dry completely, especially ears

Shedding Management

Cavaliers shed moderately:

• More during seasonal changes
• Regular brushing reduces loose hair
• Deshedding treatments help
• Good nutrition supports coat health

Dental Care

Cavaliers can be prone to dental issues:

• Brush teeth regularly
• Provide dental chews
• Regular vet dental checks

Special Considerations

Heart Conditions

Many Cavaliers have heart conditions. Inform your groomer so they can:

• Monitor for stress
• Keep sessions calm
• Avoid over-exertion
• Watch for breathing changes

Keep your Cavalier looking and feeling royal! Book a grooming appointment.