The CHARLIE or KING CHARLES SPANIEL named at the insistence of Edward VII, is a finely bred individual dog with a strong personality. The Breed Standard states that they should be "cobby" with an elegant gait and sound driving rear action. Their muzzle is very short and laid back with well developed cushioning under the eyes. Their coat is long and silky, with heavily fringed or feathered ears and legs. Their most distinctive feature is the domed head which should be a perfect half sphere when viewed from the side supported by an arched neck. Full face on, their eyes and nose should form a straight line which continues out to the setting of the ears, the lips should be full not "hound like" and the tongue should not protrude. Some dogs may have a fused toe in their feet or in one foot, this is legitimate and due to the influence of some dogs early on in the breed. It is prized by many breeders as indeed is the "Blenheim spot" between the ears of a Blenheim King Charles Spaniel. Spots of colour are permitted on the face and are affectionately known as "splodges" or "freckles".
"Charlies" are very active dogs, but are not strongly recommended for households with children. They are much happier in an adult household. They come in four colours, Black and Tan (King Charles), Blenheim, Ruby, and tricolour (Prince Charles). They may be "picky" eaters.
The King Charles Spaniel is a rare breed of dog and requires to be part of a family. Once very popular as "Dowager Dogs", they dominated Victorian and Edwardian drawing rooms and were exhibited on cushions. They survived the Second World War in very small numbers but thanks to a devoted group of breeders their numbers have increased again. They differ from the Cavaliers in size (smaller), shape of face (broader) and head (domed) with ears set lower.
In recent times careful breeding has strengthened the bone structure of these charming, intelligent and witty little dogs, so that they enjoy running and playing and in general making their presence felt.
If you are contemplating a "Charlie" contact a Club Secretary in your State, go to shows, read books.
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