Cavalier King Charles Spaniel grooming
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are popular Florida companion dogs. The silky medium-length coat with feathering on the ears, legs, and tail looks elegant but requires regular care, especially in humidity.
Brush 2–3 times a week with a pin brush and metal comb. Pay extra attention to behind the ears, under the legs, and the "skirt" feathering — these mat first.
Bath every 3–4 weeks with a moisturizing shampoo. The Cavalier coat dries out easily, especially in air-conditioned Florida homes. Conditioner is required.
Ear care is the breed's biggest issue. Long, hairy, floppy ears + Florida humidity = chronic ear infections in many Cavaliers. Clean ears weekly with an enzymatic cleaner. Have your groomer pluck inner ear hair at every visit. Watch for head shaking, scratching, or odor — early signs of infection.
Trim feet and sanitary area every grooming visit (every 6–8 weeks). The feathering on the feet collects sand and grass debris in Florida.
Health note: Cavaliers are prone to mitral valve disease and syringomyelia. These don't affect grooming directly, but a stressed dog with heart issues handles grooming poorly. Tell your groomer about any health conditions.
Tear staining: common, manageable with daily wipes and a quality whitening shampoo.