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English Toy Spaniel
The English Toy Spaniel is a small companion breed that is social.
This native of England is smart and elegant.
Try out our new Dog Breed Chooser Tool to help you select a breed.
Breed Facts
Finding an English Toy Spaniel
Physical Characteristics
- Small, sturdy, square build
- Black deep pug nose
- Large, dark, round eyes
- Long, feathered, pendant ears
- Coat: Soft, silky hair
- Four color varieties: black and tan (King Charles); solid red, may have a few white hairs or small white patch on chest (ruby); white with red "thumb print" at center of top of head (Blenheim); and tri-color, white with black and tan markings (Prince Charles)
- Height: 10 inches
- Weight: 8-14 pounds
- Average lifespan: 10-12 years
Temperament
- Gentle, happy, playful, loving, sweet, quiet, social, smart
- Interaction with people: Good with mature children; good companion dog
Medical Conditions
- Congenital cardiac disease (including patent ductus arteriosis)
- Lazy or hanging tongue
- Ophthalmic disorders (including glaucoma and cataracts)
- Patellar luxation
While the listed ailments may be common in this breed, not all members of the breed suffer from these conditions. Responsible breeders screen for orthopedic and genetic diseases.
At Home
- Good for apartments - primarily an indoor animal; fine without yard
- Needs daily walk
- Very sensitive to extreme climates
Grooming
- Average shedders
- Needs regular brushing
- No trimming or stripping needed
- Clean eyes and ears regularly to avoid infections
Other Facts
- It's believed that until the time of King Charles II, the breed's only color variety was black and tan
- Evidence shows that Mary, Queen of Scots, owned one English toy that refused to leave her, even on the scaffold
- Queen Elizabeth referred to it as the "comforter"
Breed History
- Developed mainly in the British Isles
- Thought to be a cross between Oriental toy breeds and spaniels
- Popular with the wealthy classes
- Began as a woodcock hunting dog and over centuries has been bred down to be a companion lap dog
For more information about this breed and breeder referral contacts, please visit the English Toy Spaniel Club of America For breed rescue opportunities, visit ETSCA Rescue.
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