Quick Stats for the English Toy Spaniel
- Height (at the shoulders): about 10 inches (25 cm)
- Weight: dogs: 9 – 12 pounds (4.1 – 5.4 kg)
- Life Expectancy: 10 – 12 years
- AKC Group: Toy Group – AKC recognized in 1886
- Shedding: average shedders
- Living Conditions: good for apartments; relatively inactive indoors; okay without a yard (with sufficient exercise)
Personality of the English Toy Spaniel
The English Toy Spaniel is an easy-going and friendly member of the Toy Group. With a Pug-like expression and it’s gentle manner, this breed is the perfect pet for anyone that enjoys a reserved, easy-to-raise house dog. They are friendly to both strangers and other pets, and make an excellent watchdog.
History of the English Toy Spaniel
As its name suggests, the area of origin of the breed is England. They were used to flush birds out for hunters in addition to being a loving family companion at home. Interestingly enough, they share the same history to that of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. Both started out as one breed, more likely from crosses of Oriental toy breeds and small spaniels.
Researchers claim that the breed started from toy spaniels that were brought to Scotland from France, by Mary, Queen of Scots. The rich adored the little dog and they became common lapdogs for the wealthy class. When the 17th century came about, the dogs became even more popular, especially with King Charles II, to which he is credited for officially naming the breed after his name – King Charles Spaniels.
These early King Charles Spaniels were all black and tan with variations developed soon after. Through the following centuries, these dogs were bred down to be smaller in size with physical differences – in the rounder shape of the head and a much flatter nose. In the United States these new versions were known as English Toy Spaniels.
The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1886 as a member of the Toy Group.
The English Toy Spaniel Care and Grooming
Toy dog breeds are typically very active and spunky, however, the English Toy Spaniel does not fit into this category at all. It is calm, reserved, and does not need much activity to keep up with its exercise requirements. A few walks on the leash each day is plenty.
These dogs do not tolerate heat well and should live indoors. Outside playtime in the yard is acceptable so long as the weather is on the cool side. Grooming requirements for the breed call for a thorough brushing at least twice per week.
Health Problems of the English Toy Spaniel
The average life expectancy of the English Toy Spaniel is about ten to twelve years.
Major health concerns for this breed are:
- patellar luxation
Minor health issues include:
- early tooth loss
- droopy tongue (when the tongue hangs uncontrollably from the mouth)
These other issues can occur, but are rarely seen:
- PDA (Patent Ductus Arteriosus)
Veterinarians recommend having the English Toy Spaniel tested specifically for knee problems.
Image courtesy of Wikipedia
[...] Official documentation tells us that the breed was in Europe in 1853. Over the next several decades more and more Japanese Chins were sold or traded to the Europeans and then to the Americans. In the late 1800s, the breed got official recognition by the AKC, listed as the “Japanese Spaniel”. To reduce the breed’s size over the last century it was crossed with English Toy Spaniels. [...]