English Toy Spaniels

There are four types of English Toy Spaniels, the King Charles, a black and tan; the Prince Charles, a tricolor; Ruby, a chestnut red, and Blenheim, red and white. In England all four are listed as "King Charles Spaniels." In America since 1903 they have been officially "English Toy Spaniels."

Source: commons.wikimedia.org

The English Toy Spaniel resembles the Japanese Spaniel and some maintain the breed came originally from the Orient. Spain, land of origin of the Spaniel breeds, may have provided the first stock and it is possible also that the breed was a small dog developed solely from dogs native to the British Isles.

You can read about "Chihuahua" here

The various color varieties are thought to be a relatively modern development, but no definite dates for their beginnings have been established. However, the red and white dog that is the Blenheim got his name as long ago as 1700. Before that he was called simply a Cocker and "Cocker" meant a woodcock dog. He was the smallest of the Spaniel family to be used in hunting, but while fairly successful he was inclined to tire quickly. 

The breed, well known in the United States through the last century, has kept its qualities as a companion though its virtues as a hunter are slight. It has maintained a steady although never a spectacular place in the American canine picture, with registrations of about 100 annually.

The breed developed to its present form long ago. Photographs of specimens in early American dog shows compare very favorably with the dogs of today. The English Toy Spaniel, regardless of its color variety, should have a long, soft, silky and wavy coat. The feathering on the ears, legs and feet should be pronounced. 

Share this post