Breed comparison

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel vs English Toy Spaniel

How the two breeds compare on the American Kennel Club's 1 to 5 trait ratings, and which one suits which home.

5Affection with family5
5Good with young children5
5Good with other dogs5
4Openness to strangers3
3Playfulness4
3Energy level3
4Trainability3
3Mental stimulation needs3
3Adaptability4
3Watchdog / protective3
3Barking2
2Shedding3
2Coat grooming3
2Drooling2

The biggest differences

These two breeds are close on every trait: no score differs by more than one point.

They score the same on affection with family, good with young children, good with other dogs, energy level, mental stimulation needs, watchdog / protective.

Which one should you choose?

Pick the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel if you want less dog hair, you want a dog that is easier to train. Pick the English Toy Spaniel if you want a quieter dog, you live in a smaller home or move often.

Ratings are general breed tendencies from the AKC. Every dog is an individual, so meet the dog, and its parents if you can, before you decide. Not sure? Try the breed selector.

Source: American Kennel Club breed ratings (compiled February 2022). How we check.

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