Midland Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Club
Caring for Cavaliers
Your new puppy:
Once you get your puppy home it can be a worrying time but always remember that your breeder will only be too pleased to help you with any questions regarding training, feeding and health issues. Make sure you listen to the breeder and continue feeding your puppy on the same food that the breeder has recommended, its all too easy to upset a tiny puppy's tummy.
There should always be plenty of fresh drinking water available at all times, and, if you have children, ensure that they give the puppy plenty of time to rest and that they do not overtire him/her.
Feeding:
There are many different brands of dry and wet food suitable for Cavaliers but it is always best to ask for guidance from the breeder when you collect your new dog.
It is important to make sure your cavalier is not being overfed as this can adverly affect the health of your dog.
Biscuits and treats should be fed in moderation.
Grooming:
Cavaliers have long silky coats so need regular grooming to keep them tangle free. The ears need special attention as they can easily become matted if neglected.
A pin brush, slicker or comb will do the job effectively.
It is also beneficial to maintain your dogs teeth with regular brushing.
The ear canals should be checked from time to time to ensure there is no buildup of wax.
Exercise:
Cavaliers have long silky coats so need regular grooming to keep them tangle free. The ears need special attention as they can easily become matted if neglected.
A pin brush, slicker or comb will do the job effectively.
It is also beneficial to maintain your dogs teeth with regular brushing.
The ear canals should be checked from time to time to ensure there is no buildup of wax.
Golden Oldies:
Even though your dog may be slowing down a little, there's no reason why the later years in life shouldn't be some of the most rewarding. After all, he's/she's wiser as well as older. With regular veterinary attention, daily care and proper nutrition, your senior dog can still experience a very happy, healthy life. Certain changes will occur in your dog’s body as he gets older. Important bodily functions, normally taken for granted, may start to slow down or malfunction. Just like humans, the senses eventually start to deteriorate, leading to impaired vision, hearing, taste and smell. Older dogs are also prone to a number of medical conditions, the signs of which can be subtle and that we, as owners, should be on the lookout for as many are treatable.
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Key points – take your dog to the vet if:
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Your pet is eating less
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Your pet is drinking more than normal
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Your pet has an unusual smelly breath
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Your pet has unexplained weight loss
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There is stiffness, a limp or difficulty in jumping
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You find any lumps or bumps
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Your pet is getting extra tired when out for a walk
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Your pet has a cough
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Your pet is having trouble passing urine or faeces, or passing more than usual
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Your pet has become dull, disorientated or is having trouble with balance
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There are discharges from the bitches vagina/dogs penis
