King Charles spaniel

[ king chahrlz span-yuhl ]

noun

1. one of a breed of small dogs that resemble the closely related cavalier King Charles spaniel, but which are somewhat smaller, have a shorter muzzle, an upturned nose, and sometimes a slight wave or curl to their coat:

   As is typical of the breed, both of our King Charles spaniels are very playful and affectionate.

King Charles spaniel

noun

1. a toy breed of spaniel with a short turned-up nose and a domed skull
2. cavalier King Charles spaniel
   a similar breed that is slightly larger and has a longer nose

Word History and Origins

Origin of King Charles spaniel¹

First recorded in 1895–1900; named after Charles II of England from his liking for this variety

Word History and Origins

Origin of King Charles spaniel¹

C17: named after Charles II of England, who popularized the breed

Example Sentences

Specific dog breeds at increased risk include chow chows, bulldogs, French bulldogs, dogue de Bordeaux, greyhounds, boxers, English springer spaniels, Cavalier King Charles spaniels, pugs, golden retrievers and Staffordshire bull terriers.

From Los Angeles Times

The series ended with Charlotte and her second husband Harry walking their Cavalier King Charles spaniel puppies, awaiting Lily, an adopted baby girl from China.

From Salon

But recent research and extensive restoration of the painting for an exhibition revealed an auburn-coated King Charles spaniel with a red bow.

From New York Times

The King Charles spaniel in the foreground of this scene escaped effacement.

From New York Times

Cavalier King Charles spaniels are named not for the current sovereign but for 17th-century predecessors Charles I and especially Charles II, who was known for his fondness for wee spaniels.

From Seattle Times