Health and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is one of the world's most affectionate, gentle and loyal companion dogs. Their loving temperament, adaptability and eagerness to be part of the family have made them one of Australia's most popular toy breeds. However, like all purebred dogs, Cavaliers are predisposed to certain inherited health conditions. Understanding these conditions is an important part of responsible dog ownership and is one of the reasons why choosing an ethical, health-testing breeder is so important.
At the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Club of Queensland, we are committed to educating current and prospective owners about the breed's health and promoting responsible breeding practices that protect the long-term health and welfare of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.
Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease (MMVD)
Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease (MMVD) is a common heart condition in dogs and the most significant inherited heart condition affecting the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. The heart's mitral valve which separates the left chambers of the heart. In Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease, the valve fails to seal tightly causing blood to leak backwards (mitral regurgitation) through to the left atrium. It is a progressive degenerative disease which over time may cause the heart to enlarge and eventually lead to congestive heart failure.
While Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease occurs in many dog breeds as well as cross breeds, some breeds including Cavaliers are at greater risk of developing the disease. Responsible breeders help reduce the incidence of early-onset disease by having their breeding dogs examined by a veterinary cardiologist and carefully selecting breeding dogs based on the heart health of the dogs as well as their parents and grandparents
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Chiari-like Malformation (CM) and Syringomyelia (SM)
Chiari-like Malformation (CM) is a complex condition which occurs due to developmental malformation of the skull and cranio-cervical vertebrae. This can disrupt the normal flow of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) channels at the cranio-cervical junction. This may lead to Syringomyelia (SM), where fluid-filled cavities develop within the parenchyma of the spinal cord. While pathogenesis is not well understood, it is hypothesised that this is due to extracellular fluid accumulation secondary to abnormal flow of CSF.
The sensations can cause a dog to attempt to relieve discomfort by scratching near the neck or shoulders without making skin contact ("air scratching"), rubbing the face, or licking the paws excessively. Signs of SM include sensitivity around the head or neck, unexplained vocalisation or posturing in pain when moving or being lifted, and/or a reluctance to exercise, jump or climb stairs.
There is great variation in the type and severity of clinical signs that a dog with this condition will show. Some dogs with SM experience pain or neurological signs, while others may remain asymptomatic. So, in some cases, this may be identified as an incidental finding in investigating other issues.
The most challenging aspect of this disease is that the clinical signs are often vague and non-specific. They also overlap with other more common issues such as skin or ear conditions. So, these signs are not necessarily conclusive. It is important to consider these other possibilities as well to obtain an accurate diagnosis.
Currently the most reliable method of assessing dogs for Chiari-like Malformation and SM is by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanning. For this reason, it is therefore important to consult a specialist to obtain a definitive diagnosis.
MRI scanning is a tool to assist breeders in making informed breeding decisions.
CM and SM have been reported in a number of breeds including Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, King Charles Spaniels, Griffon Bruxellois, Affenpinschers, Yorkshire Terriers, Maltese, Chihuahuas, Pomeranians, Boston Terriers, Papillons, French Bulldogs and Pugs.
Episodic Falling Syndrome (EFS)
Episodic Falling Syndrome (EFS) is an inherited neurological disorder unique to the breed. It causes episodes of muscle stiffness and abnormal body posture, often triggered by excitement, exercise or stress. Dogs remain conscious during these episodes.
A DNA test is available to identify dogs that are clear, carriers or affected, enabling responsible breeders to avoid producing affected puppies through careful breeding decisions.
Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome (CCDE)
Although rare, Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome (CCDE) is another inherited condition for which DNA testing is available. Affected dogs may have unusually curly coats, dry eyes caused by reduced tear production, dry skin and other developmental abnormalities. The condition can significantly affect a dog's quality of life, making genetic testing an important part of responsible breeding programmes.
Eye Disorders
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels can also be affected by a number of inherited eye conditions, including hereditary cataracts, retinal disorders, dry eye and abnormalities of the eyelids or eyelashes. Regular eye examinations by suitably qualified veterinary ophthalmologists help identify conditions that may influence breeding decisions and protect the long-term health of the breed.
Luxating Patella
Luxating patella, commonly known as a "slipping kneecap", is another condition that may occur in Cavaliers. The kneecap can move out of its normal position, causing discomfort, skipping while walking or varying degrees of lameness. In more severe cases, surgery may be required. Responsible breeders consider the soundness and overall structure of their breeding dogs when planning litters.
Hip Dysplasia
Although less common than in many larger breeds, hip dysplasia can occur in Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. This developmental condition affects the hip joints and may contribute to pain, arthritis and reduced mobility. Some breeders undertake hip scoring to assist with responsible breeding decisions.
Ear Health
The Cavalier's long, feathered ears create a warm environment that can predispose some dogs to ear infections. Regular ear cleaning, grooming and routine veterinary examinations help maintain healthy ears and reduce the risk of chronic problems.
Dental Disease
Like many small breeds, Cavaliers are prone to dental disease if good oral hygiene is not maintained. Daily tooth brushing, professional dental examinations and appropriate dental care can help prevent periodontal disease, tooth loss and secondary health complications.
Obesity
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels enjoy their food and can gain weight easily if overfed or under-exercised. Maintaining a healthy body condition through a balanced diet and regular exercise helps reduce the risk of arthritis, diabetes, heart disease and other obesity-related health conditions.
Responsible Breeding Protects the Future of the Breed
While this list of health conditions may seem daunting, it is important to remember that responsible breeders are actively working to improve the health of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. Through comprehensive health testing, careful pedigree analysis, DNA screening and thoughtful breeding decisions, ethical breeders aim to reduce the prevalence of inherited disease while preserving the breed's exceptional temperament and companionship.
If you are looking for a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel puppy in Queensland or Australia, always choose a breeder who openly discusses health testing and willingly provides documentation for their breeding dogs. Selecting a health-tested, responsibly bred puppy gives you the best possible opportunity to welcome a healthy companion into your family while supporting the long-term health, welfare and preservation of this much-loved breed.
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Club of Queensland encourages all prospective owners to educate themselves about these health challenges, ask breeders informed questions and use our Breeder Directory and Puppy Co-ordinator as trusted resources when searching for their new family member.
Disclaimer
The information provided in the Cavalier Knowledge Centre is intended for general educational purposes only and is not a substitute for veterinary advice, diagnosis or treatment.