English Toy Spaniel

The English Toy Spaniel is a wonderfully happy lap dog that does not need much for care and exercise. This dog is well behaved, and is very friendly toward other pets, as well as older children. 

A few color variations can be found among dogs of this breed. There is the "Ruby", whose coat is a single color, a deep red. The "Blenheim" has broken chestnut markings on white. On this variety, the dogs ears will be chestnut color which surrounds both eyes and has a white base with a chestnut spot in the center. The "Tricolor", also called the "Prince Charles" has dark black coloring appearing on a white field and tan marks around the eyes, cheeks, in the ears and under the tail.

The English Toy Spaniel has a very large head, and this makes natural birth sometimes impossible. Caesarian sections might be required for this breed in some cases. This breed of dog also has a tendency to suffer that common condition for small dogs, Luxating Patella, where the kneecap can slip, which is painful and crippling for the dog. Breeders need to keep these problems in mind, as they have influence over things like whether the size of the head is to be highly prized in this breed.

The coat for the English Toy Spaniel is thick, long and wavy. This dog should be regularly brushed, which can help to maintain a healthy and clean coat, avoiding matted hair, and keep you more in touch with his health and increase the emotional bond you have with your pet. Brush his teeth twice a week using toothpaste and a toothbrush specially designed for dogs. By brushing you will remove the tartar and plaque which can sometimes cause cavities and gum (periodontal) disease. Periodontal disease for dogs can be very painful, as well as lead to tooth loss, bad breath and other serious mouth disease.

The dog's toenails should be checked for growth periodically and regularly clipped. The rear feet toenails will normally grow slower than those of the front feet. Use a guillotine type trimmer for the best results and look for good instructions how to trim nails on the Internet.

The adult of the English Toy Spaniel, at about age two or older, will be approximately 10 inches up to the high point of the shoulder, and between 9 and 12 pounds.

This dog has pleasant characteristics, but lacks energy. This is a perfect dog for and elderly adult, as he is calm and enjoys simply lying in his owner's lap. This dog is truly a typical "lap dog".