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Path: senator-bedfellow.mit.edu!bloom-beacon.mit.edu!pad-thai.aktis.com!pad-thai.aktis.com!not-for-mail
From: hope@kelvin.jpl.nasa.gov (Sharon Hope)
Newsgroups: rec.pets.dogs,rec.answers,news.answers
Subject: rec.pets.dogs: Cavalier King Charles Spaniels Breed-FAQ
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AUTHOR
Sharon Hope, May 5, 1993 [hope@kelvin.jpl.nasa.gov]
with material supplied by the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Club USA
GENERAL
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a delightfully affectionate,
playful, intelligent little dog that repays his owner's care and
attention with an endearing devotion.
A toy breed, they have a natural coat which needs no trimming, long
silky ears, and large soulful eyes. More than one person has
described them as looking like a Cocker Spaniel puppy all their lives.
The tail is often left natural. The standard makes tail docking
optional, but two thirds of the tail must be left intact. Dew claws
are removed as they are thought to be a hazard to the prominent eyes.
They come in four color combinations: Blenheim (Red and White, with
a red mask and ears, and red patches on a white body); Tricolor
(Black and White with Tan Points), Ruby (Solid Red), and Black and
Tan (without white).
In addition to being a fine companion, one of the jobs the Cavalier
King Charles Spaniel was originally bred to do was to warm laps in
drafty castles and on chilly carriage rides (the other job was to
attract fleas & thereby spare their masters in the days of the
Plague). While so many other breeds of dog no longer perform the
tasks for which they were bred (pulling milk carts, herding sheep,
hunting lions, for example), Cavaliers still take their responsibility
quite seriously. A prescription written in Olde English for the Queen
of England directs her to keep a "comforte dog" (now known as the
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel) on her lap to treat a cold. It is
almost as if the breed's motto is "so many laps, so little time."
Cavaliers take cuddling so seriously that "If you want your pillow you
must get there first" is often heard when Cavalier owners gather.
FREQENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Is this the breed called "the ultimate snob dog"?
Yes, an article appeared in Town and Country Magazine a few years
ago. The title referred to the attitude of owners, not the
Cavaliers. It was mentioned that Monarchs, Presidents, Captains of
Industry and Movie Stars own Cavaliers. Further the fact that the
CKCSC-USA maintains an exclusive non-AKC registry, and that puppies
are sometimes hard to find contributed to the title. Further,
prospective puppy buyers are often surprised by the "third-degree"
administered by breeders trying to determine their suitability to
owning a Cavalier.
What people do well with a Cavalier?
The Cavalier has been the companion of choice to high stress people
for 400 years. Every crowned head of England had one as a
companion as a child, as did many in the Dutch court. More recent
celebrities who own or have owned Cavaliers are Ronald and Nancy
Reagan, William F. Buckley, Ms. Frank Sinatra, Candice Bergen,
Robert Wagner & Natalie Wood and many others. The Cavalier has a
calming effect on many people. Stress reduction/relaxation can be
noticeably felt when a Cavalier curls up peacefully on a lap.
Are they good with kids?
The Cavalier is excellent with children. Their tendency to interact
with their owners makes them an especially close friend and confidant
for a child. They enjoy playtime and activity. Children, of course,
need supervision to be certain that the child does not hurt the dog.
Are they good with seniors?
Retirees, or "empty nesters," find the companionship, temperament,
small size and easy maintenance ideal. More than one woman has
mentioned that a Cavalier resting on her lap or in the crook of her
arm is almost as peaceful as holding a (human) sleeping infant. More
than one active senior with a Cavalier has experienced the receipt of
two invitations for a Cocktail Party/Get Together-one addressed to the
Senior and one to the Cavalier.
Are they good guard dogs?
No. While the Cavalier will alert his owner to an arrival of someone
new, they seem to regard all strangers as friends they haven't met
yet. Although a noisy greeting may be enough to ward off a prowler,
it would be difficult picturing anyone being scared off by a Cavalier.
Do they travel well?
People who travel often find it easy and pleasant to take the Cavalier
along. Their strong desire to be with their owners makes them willing
travelers. Their size and personality contribute to their welcome at
"dogs allowed" hotels, marinas & campgrounds.
Are they an AKC breed?
Cavaliers are not an AKC breed. They have full recognition by the
British Kennel Club and the Canadian Kennel Club. The AKC accepted
the Cavalier into the Miscellaneous Class decades ago, a class
intended for breeds who wish to work toward full recognition. In
the United States of America the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Club, USA, keeps the registry and has repeatedly voted against full
AKC recognition. Due to the fact that the CKCSC, USA, is not
actively seeking recognition by AKC, the Canadian Kennel Club no
longer recognizes Cavaliers registered only with the CKCSC, USA,
but does recognize Canadian-bred and British Cavaliers.
Can I find one in a pet store?
Hopefully, NEVER! Every attempt has been made by the CKCSC-USA to
prevent Cavaliers from falling into the hands of puppy mills or anyone
who would resell the dog. The Cavalier breeders adhere to the Code of
Ethics (see that section of this FAQ) which specifically excludes
providing any puppies for resale. Responsible Cavalier breeders do
their best to screen any prospective puppy buyer and often refuse to
sell to a less than "ideal" home.
What medical problems do Cavaliers have?
For the most part Cavaliers are quite healthy dogs. There are a few
problems which are known to appear in the breed: heart murmurs,
cataracts, and Subluxating Patellas.
What kind of grooming is necessary for Cavaliers?
The Cavalier does require regular grooming. A great deal of time and
effort is not necessary if the dog is brushed and combed thoroughly at
least once a week. Cavaliers do shed, particularly in spring and
fall, but a little all the time. Nails should be clipped and the hair
between the pads trimmed once a month. No other trimming is necessary
(or allowed) in the show ring. The ideal brushes to use are the
softer slicker brushes or a pin brush (not nylon or plastic) and a
metal comb. Knots and tangles are kept to a minimum if the Cavalier
is free of parasites and is combed regularly. Brush out all knots and
tangles before bathing.
Cavaliers are naturally clean dogs. Too much bathing dries out the
skin and haircoat so certainly do not bathe more than once a week.
Don't use human shampoo on dogs. Rinse thoroughly. A human blow
dryer (not on hot) and brushing at the same time works well for
drying. Keep blower moving so any one spot does not get overheated.
Commercial preparations are made that will help remove tear stains
under the eyes. Keep eyes clean and dry. Vaseline applied to the
dog's nose occasionally will keep it from getting dry and rough. A
vet should be consulted if the condition becomes severe.
HISTORY OF THE BREED
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel of today is descended from the small
Toy Spaniels seen in so many of the 16th, 17th and 18th Century
paintings by the likes of Titian, Van Dyck, Lely, Stubbs,
Gainsborough, Reynolds and Romney. These paintings show the small
spaniel with a flat head, high set ears, almond eyes and a rather
pointed nose. During Tudor times, Toy Spaniels were quite common as
ladies' pets but it was under the Stuarts that they were given the
royal title of King Charles Spaniels and history tells us that King
Charles II was seldom seen without two or three at his heels. So fond
was King Charles II of his little dogs, he wrote a decree that the
King Charles Spaniel should be accepted in any public place, even in
the Houses of Parliament where animals were not usually allowed. This
decree is still in existence today in England. As time went by, and
with the coming of the Dutch Court, Toy Spaniels went out of fashion
and were replaced in popularity by the Pug. One exception was the
strain of red and white Toy Spaniels that was bred at Blenheim Palace
by various Dukes of Marlborough.
In the early days, there were no dog shows and no recognized breed
standard, so both type and size varied. With little transport
available, one can readily believe that breeding was carried out in a
most haphazard way. By the mid-nineteenth century, England took up
dog breeding and dog showing seriously. Many breeds were developed
and others altered. This brought a new fashion to the Toy Spaniel -
dogs with the completely flat face, undershot jaw, domed skull with
long, low set ears and large, round frontal eyes of the modern King
Charles Spaniel, also called "Charlies," known in the USA today as the
English Toy Spaniel. Due to this "new" fashion, the King Charles
Spaniel of the "old type" as seen in the early paintings was almost
extinct.
It was at this stage that an American, Roswell Eldridge began to
search for foundation stock in England for Toy Spaniels that resembled
those in the old paintings, including the painting by Sir Edwin
Landseer, "The Cavalier's Dogs," but all he could find were the short
faced "Charlies." He persisted, persuading the Kennel Club in 1926 to
allow him to offer prizes for five years at Crufts Dog Show -- 25
pounds sterling for the best dog and 25 pounds sterling for the best
bitch -- for the dogs of the Blenheim variety as seen in King Charles
II's reign. The following is a quotation taken from Cruft's catalog:
"As shown in the pictures of King Charles II's time, long face no
stop, flat skull, not inclined to be domed and with the spot in the
center of the skull" and the prizes to go to the nearest to the type
described. No one among the King Charles breeders took this challenge
very seriously as they had worked hard for years to do away with the
long nose. Gradually, as the big prizes came to an end, only people
really interested in reviving the dogs as they once had been, were
left to carry on the breeding experiment. At the end of five years,
little had been achieved and the Kennel Club was of the opinion that
the dogs were not in sufficient numbers, nor of a single type, to
merit a separate breed registration from the "Charlies."
In 1928 a dog owned by Miss Mostyn Walker, "Ann's Son" was awarded the
prize but unfortunately Roswell Eldridge died at age 70, only a month
before Crufts in 1928, so he never saw the results of his challenge
prizes. It was in the same year that a Club was founded and the title
"Cavalier King Charles Spaniel" was chosen. It was very important
that the association with the name King Charles Spaniel be kept as
most breeders bred back to the original type by way of the long faced
throwouts from the kennels of the short faced variety breeders. Some
of the stock threw back to the long faced variety very quickly and
pioneers were often accused of using outcrosses to other suitable
breeds to get the long faces, but this was not true and crossing to
other breeds was not recommended by the Club.
At the first meeting, held the second day of Crufts in 1928, the
standard of the breed was drawn up and it was practically the same as
it is today. Ann's Son was placed on the table as the live example
and members brought all the reproductions of pictures of the 16th,
17th and 18th Centuries that they could muster. As this was a new and
tremendous opportunity to achieve a really worthwhile breed, it was
agreed that as far as possible, the Cavalier should be guarded from
fashion, and there was to be no trimming. A perfectly natural dog was
desired and was not to be spoiled to suit individual tastes, or as the
saying goes, "carved into shape." Kennel Club recognition was still
withheld and progress was slow, but gradually people became aware that
the movement toward the "old type" King Charles Spaniel had come to
stay. In 1945 the Kennel Club granted separate registration and
awarded Challenge Certificates to allow the Cavalier King Charles
Spaniel to gain their Championships.
Meanwhile, in the USA, Mrs. W. L. Lyons Brown of Kentucky brought a
Cavalier home from England. She found others in America who owned
Cavaliers and organized the CKCSC-USA in 1956 with the idea of keeping
a Stud Book and getting together with other American Cavalier
Fanciers. At the beginning of the 1960's, friends gathered at
"Sutherland" in Prospect, Kentucky, for the first Cavalier King
Charles Spaniel Specialty Show in America. By then 118 dogs had been
registered, 68 of them born in the USA of 24 litters. To this day,
the CKCSC-USA keeps complete and accurate records of litters, imported
Cavaliers, the Stud Books, etc. in addition to organizing Specialty
Shows (for Cavaliers only) around the country so that Cavalier owners
have the opportunity for an objective evaluation of their dogs by
knowledgeable judges and so that their dogs can compete for a
Championship in the USA. The Club's stringent Code of Ethics,
applying to all Club Members, makes the Cavalier in the USA a
protected breed. This means that the Club expects its members to act
responsibly with regard to the welfare and breeding of Cavaliers. It
is hoped that the Code of Ethics would also help keep the Cavalier out
of unethical hands which might turn the dogs over to puppy mills or
pet shops. In 1985 the CKCSC-USA held a Silver Jubilee Show in
Prospect, Kentucky, marking the 25th consecutive CKCSC-USA Specialty
show.
CAVALIER KING CHARLES SPANIEL BREED STANDARD (US)
General Appearance: An active, graceful well-balanced dog, very gay
and free in action; fearless and sporting in character, yet at the
same time gentle and affectionate.
Head: The skull is slightly rounded, but without dome or peak; it
should appear flat because of the high placement of the ears.
Eyes: Large, round and set well apart; color a warm, very dark brown,
giving a lustrous, limpid look. There should be slight cushioning
under the eyes, which contributes much to the sweet, gentle expression
characteristic of the breed. Faults: Small, almond-shaped, prominent
or light eyes; white surrounding ring.
Nose: There should be a shallow stop and the length from the base of
stop to tip of nose should be at least 1 1/2 inches. Nostrils should
be well developed and the pigment uniformly black. Putty, or "dudley"
noses and white patches on the nose are serious faults, as are small,
pinched nostrils.
Muzzle: Well tapered; mouth level; lips well covering. Faults: Sharp,
pointed or snipey muzzle. Full or pendulous lips. Flesh marks, i.e.
patches of pink pigment showing through hair on muzzle.
Teeth: Strong and even, preferably meeting in a scissors bite,
although a level bite is permitted. Undershot mouths are greatly to
be discouraged; it should be emphasized, however, that a slightly
undershot bite in an otherwise well-balanced head with the correct,
sweet expression should not be penalized in favor of a level mouth
with a plain or hard expression. Faults: Weak or crooked teeth,
crooked jaws.
Ears: Set high, but not close, on top of the head. Leather long with
plenty of feathering and wide enough so that when the dog is alert,
the ears fan slightly forward to frame the face.
Neck: Fairly long, without throatiness, well enough muscled to form a
slight arch at the crest. Set smoothly into nicely sloping shoulders.
Shoulders: Sloping back gently with moderate angulation, to give the
characteristic look of top class and elegance.
Body: Short coupled with ribs well sprung but not barrelled. Chest
moderately deep, leaving ample heart room. Back level leading into
strong, muscular hindquarters. Slightly less body at the flank than
at the rib, but with no tucked-up appearance.
Legs: Forelegs straight and well under the dog, bone moderate, elbows
close to the sides. Hindlegs moderately muscled; stifles well-turned;
hocks well let down. The hindlegs, viewed from the rear, should
parallel each other from hock to heel. Pasterns strong and feet
compact with well-cushioned pads. The dog stands level on all four
feet. Faults: loose elbows; crooked legs; stifles turned in or out;
cow hocks; stilted action; weak pasterns; open feet.
Tail: Set so as to be carried level with the back. Tail should be in
constant characteristic motion when the dog is in action.
Docking: Docking is optional, but whether or not the tail is docked,
it must balance the body. If docked, tail must not be cut too short;
2/3 is the absolute minimum to be left on the body, and the tails of
broken-colored dogs should always be docked to leave a white tip.
Coat: Long and silky and very soft to the touch; free from curl,
though a slight wave is permissible. Feathering on ears, legs and
tail should be long, and the feathering on the feet is a feature of
the breed.
Trimming: NO trimming of the dog is permitted. However, it is
permissible and often desirable to remove the hair growing between the
pads on the underside of the foot.
Size: Height 12 to 13 inches at the withers; weight, proportionate to
height, between 13 and 18 lbs. These are ideal heights and weights;
slight variations are permissible, and a dog should be penalized only
in comparison with one of equal general appearance, type and quality.
The weedy specimen is as much to be penalized as the oversized one.
Colors: The following colors are the only colors acceptable:
1. BLENHEIM - Rich chestnut markings well broken up on a pearly
white ground. The ears must be red and the color evenly spaced
on the head, with a wide white blaze between the ears, in the
center of which is the much valued lozenge (diamond), or
"Blenheim Spot". The lozenge is a unique and highly desirable,
though not essential, characteristic of the Blenheim.
2. TRICOLOR - Jet black markings well broken up on a pearly
white ground, with rich tan markings over the eyes, on cheeks,
inside ears and on underside of tail.
3. RUBY - Whole-colored rich red.
4. BLACK & TAN - Jet black with rich tan markings over eyes, on
cheeks, inside ears, and underside of tail.
Faults: White marks on whole-colored specimens, heavy ticking
on Blenheims or Tricolors.
It is important to remember that a dog can have one or more of the
faults listed in the Standard, in moderation, and still be an overall
typical, gay, elegant Cavalier. On the other hand, bad temper or
meanness are not to be tolerated and shall be considered disqualifying
faults. It is the typical gay temperament, combined with true
elegance and "royal" appearance which are of paramount importance to
the breed.
SHOWING CAVALIERS IN BREED AND OBEDIENCE
Don't be afraid of entering Club sponsored Cavalier Fun Matches. Any
Cavalier can be entered, including those that are neutered. Fun
matches often include handling sessions and advice on ring procedure
and grooming.
In championship point shows professional handling is not permitted in
CKCSC,USA shows, so everyone is an amateur. A Cavalier must be
registered with, and the owner must be a current member in good
standing of, the CKCSC,USA in order to enter. The Cavalier cannot be
restricted from showing (this would be noted on the CKCSC,USA
registration papers).
There are two categories: Conformation (this is to show breed type and
soundness), and Obedience. Both require going to class to learn the
proper procedure. Most Sunday papers will give the names of local
kennel clubs and these clubs will advise as to what classes are
available in the area or ask your breeder.
There are several things a Cavalier should know before entering a
show: a) should be leash trained; b) should be used to standing on a
table for examination; c) should be used to having his/her teeth
looked at; d) in the case of males, should be used to being checked
for two descended testicles.
The 1992 CKCSC-USA Championship Point System is as follows:
OBJECTIVE: To enable and encourage breeders/owners to evaluate the
product of their breeding programs under competent, knowledgeable
judges with widespread competition and to encourage the sponsoring of
regional shows under CKCSC rules.
To become a Champion today, a dog or bitch must accumulate ten
points at CKCSC sponsored or CKCSC Regional Club sponsored shows held
under CKCSC rules. Those ten points must include two major wins (3
points or better) under two different judges in two different shows,
in addition to at least one extra point under a third judge. (There
is no separate class for Champions, which may compete in any class for
which they qualify.)
SYSTEM: At CKCSC, USA or CKCSC Regional Championship shows held under
CKCSC, USA Regulations, points will be awarded as follows:
BEST IN SHOW (BIS) One point more than the highest number of points
available to either sex based on the Major Points from the Scale of
Points-below.
RESERVE BEST IN SHOW (RBIS) One point less than Best in Show.
WINNERS DOG AND BITCH (WD & WB) Highest number of points available in
sex based on the Major Points from the Scale of Points below.
RESERVE WINNERS DOG & BITCH (RWD & RWB) One point less than Winners
Dog or Winners Bitch.
At any given show, the dogs chosen BIS and RBIS shall only retain the
points for that win.
Scale of Points
Dogs in Bitches in
MAJOR POINTS: Competition Competition Points
12-15 12-15 3
16-20 16-20 4
21-30 21-30 5
31-40 31-40 6
41 or more 41 or more 7
Total Dogs & Bitches Dogs or Bitches Points for
CLASS POINTS: in Competition Competing in Class Class Winner
1-29 N.A. 0
30-49 at least 4 1
50 or more at least 4 2
No dog may receive more than 2 class points at any one show. Class
point winners also winning major points at any given show would not
retain the class points won at that show.
CANADIAN CHAMPIONSHIP SYSTEM
Effective January 1, 1980: To become a Canadian Champion, a dog must
receive 10 Championship points under three different judges and must
be registered with the Canadian Kennel Club. To determine the number
of Championship points earned, total all the dogs in competition which
the dog defeated, directly or indirectly, for the highest of the
following official breed awards: Winners, Best of Winners, Best of
Breed, or Best of Opposite Sex and then consult the schedule set forth
below. Additional Championship points can be awarded if the dog
places in the group, following a prescribed schedule but no more than
five points can be awarded at a single show. Dogs in Competition for
Championship points are almost invariably non-Champions, since in
Canada there is a Specials Class for Champions only.
Dogs Competing Points Allocated
(includes dogs awarded Winners)
1 0
2 1
3-5 2
6-9 3
10-12 4
13 or more 5
AMERICAN KENNEL CLUB
Cavaliers are in the Miscellaneous category with the AKC.
This means that they can exhibit in the Rare Breed matches
and compete in obedience. For more information, write to the
ACK at 51 Madison Ave., New York, NY 10010.
CLUBS
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Club, U.S.A., is the national
Club governing matters for the entire United States and is the main
registering body for the breed in this country. It sponsors the
newsletter "The Bulletin" to keep members informed of club matters
and upcoming activities, in addition to an annual yearbook and the
National Championship Show. The CKCSC, USA has a very active
Cavalier rescue service. Individuals finding themselves unable to
care for their Cavalier may contact the rescue service for help in
rehousing. Acceptance of membership in the CKCSC, USA requires
members to abide by the club's code of ethics (which is included
below) and which should be read and understood by all members.
The CKCSC, USA sponsors four regional clubs. All four regional clubs
welcome new members and sponsor championship point shows, fun matches
and other activities. In addition to the national bulletin, all four
regional clubs also produce their own informative bulletins that
provide an additional perspective on local activities. The only
requirement for membership in a regional club is membership in the
CKCSC, USA.
Contacts for membership information:
Club President: Anne Shapiro (818) 988-9926
V.P., H. Melvin Philpott, Jr. (212) 889-8143
Sec'y. Donald Guinee (601) 799-1704
Treas. (702) 222-9839
Other contacts are from the Board of Directors
BOD 1993:
Joseph Deary (216) 732-8173,
Kathy Dell'Aquila (412) 741-1164
Jackie Farrell (512) 335-8822.
BOD 1994:
Patty Fensterwald (703) 548-8479
Janet Klingler (907) 345-7068
Dr. Randi Rosvoll (404) 634-5304
BOD 1995:
Janice Gallagher (CMW) (512) 494-6498
Bob Smith (COTW) (503) 352-6419
Linda Wright (COS) (305) 741-1615.
Registration Secretary/Bulletin Editor:
Chris Hansen (414) 662-4549
For puppy referral, contact
Suzanne Brown (502) 897-7911. The Puppy Referral service introduces
prospective Cavalier owners to CKCSC breeders by providing general
information on the breed and a list of breeders who have puppies
available.
Rescue Committee Chair:
Babs Murdock (912) 638-4935 (winter), (217) 655-4095 (summer). The
Rescue Committee tries to find new homes for Cavaliers who can no
longer be accommodated in their present homes.
Cavaliers Of The Northeast:
Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire,
New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island, Pennsylvania, Vermont, West
Virginia. For membership information contact the club president:
Charles Minter (908) 545-7170.
Cavaliers Of The South:
Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, North
Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia. For membership
information contact the club president: Miriam Lovett (919) 723-3301.
Cavaliers Of The Midwest:
Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Missouri,
Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Ohio, Oklahoma,
Texas, Wisconsin. For membership information contact the club
president: Barbara Hill (402) 475-6841
Cavaliers Of The West:
Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Nevada, Montana,
New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Washington, Wyoming. For membership
information contact the club president: Harold Letterly (714)
887-3486.
CODE OF ETHICS for THE CAVALIER KING CHARLES SPANIEL CLUB, USA
I believe that the welfare of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
breed is of paramount importance. It supersedes any other
commitment to Cavaliers, whether that be personal, competitive, or
financial. Therefore I agree to act in accordance with the
following Code of Ethics at all times, and I understand that actions
contrary to the Code may be grounds for disciplinary measures to be
taken by the Board of Directors of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Club, USA, Inc. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Club, USA, Inc.
(hereafter referred to as CKCSC) is a Club composed of members
devoted to the continued betterment of the breed, who put this
interest well ahead of any commercial consideration. The following
Code of Ethics is predicated upon this fundamental philosophy.
Records And Registration
I understand that all records compiled by the CKCSC depend entirely
upon the accuracy of the information I provide. Therefore, I will
register every eligible Cavalier owned, bred or imported by me. In
accordance with the CKCSC Rules for Registration and Transfer of
Dogs, I will maintain complete and accurate records of each litter I
breed and register each puppy individually, as follows:
A. For the Sire and Dam:
1. CKCSC registered name, number for Accepted Foreign
Registry name and number, color, and date of birth.
2. Names and addresses of registered owners.
3. Dates of actual breeding.
B. For the resulting litter:
1. Date of whelping.
2. Number, color and sex of puppies delivered.
3. Name, sex, and registration number of each puppy
surviving.
4. Name and address of owner of each puppy
transferred.
Breeding
I realize that the purpose of breeding Cavalier King Charles
Spaniels is to attempt to bring their natural qualities to
perfection in accordance with the Breed Standard. There exists a
constant danger that ignorant or disreputable breeders may, by
improper practices, produce physically, mentally or temperamentally
unsound specimens to the detriment of the breed. I will consult
with the breeder of the dog I own and/or with some other experienced
breeder before undertaking any breeding.
A. If I decide to breed a litter, I will
1. To the best of my ability be selective with respect
to conformation, physical well-being, and
temperament of the pair to be mated.
2. Breed only after a careful study and understanding
of the Breed Standard, as it applies to the
pedigrees of the two dogs involved, and to the dogs
themselves.
3. Breed only Cavaliers registered with or eligible
for registration with the CKCSC.
4. Be prepared to provide the proper care for both the
bitch and her litter, and to retain the puppies for
as long as is necessary to assure their placement
in suitable homes.
5. Never breed from or to any Cavalier known to me to
have an inheritable disqualifying, disabling, or
potentially disabling defect.
6. Register with CKCSC, in accordance with the Club's
Procedures for Registration and Transfer of Dogs,
each of my Cavalier litters whelped in the USA.
B. As the owner of a stud dog, I realize that I must
exercise exemplary conduct in the use of my dog in order
to abide by the standards set forth in this Code of
Ethics. Therefor I will
1. Use my dog only on bitches which I feel are an
asset to the breed, whose owners agree to conform
to this Code of Ethics.
2. Supply a duly signed Stud Service Certificate at
the time of mating.
3. Be as helpful as possible in assisting the owner of
the bitch with the placement of any puppies
resulting form the use of my dog, realizing that I
am as responsible as the breeder for these puppies.
4. Provide one free return service by the same dog for
a bitch which has failed to conceive or to whelp a
viable litter, as long as the dog is still in my
ownership.
C. As the owner of the brood bitch, I realize that I must
exercise exemplary conduct in breeding from her in order
to abide by the standards set forth in the Code of
Ethics. Therefore I will not
1. Breed a bitch before 12 months and then only if she
is sufficiently mature and in excellent health: nor
breed a bitch that has reached her eighth birthday.
2. Allow a bitch to whelp more than two litters during
any three consecutive seasons.
3. Allow a bitch to carry to term and rear more than
six litters in her lifetime.
Care And Transfer Of Puppies And Dogs
A. I will provide all puppies with proper veterinary and
home care, which include:
1. Checking into the removal of dewclaws, including
hind dewclaws if present. The CKCSC strongly
recommends the removal of front dewclaws to prevent
the eyes from being damaged.
2. The elimination of parasites, internal and
external.
3. The necessary inoculations.
4. A properly balanced nutritional diet as recommended
by my veterinarian.
B. I will ask my veterinarian to euthanize any puppy found
to be deformed or suffering from an irreversible illness.
C. I will do my best to evaluate my Cavaliers objectively
and to use for breeding only those conforming closely to
the Breed Standard. All others I will either have
neutered before transferring them or will transfer with
a CKCSC "Registered Transfer of Dog" form, duly signed by
buyer and seller, restricting the Cavalier from being
used for breeding purposes.
D. I will to the very best of my ability screen all
prospective new owners to determine their suitability and
their motives in acquiring a Cavalier. Special attention
will be given to the necessary commitment to financial
responsibility for proper care and adequate physical
facilities.
E. I will not allow any puppy to leave for its new home
before the age of eight weeks. The CKCSC recommends the
to twelve weeks as the appropriate age for transfer.
F. I will make sure that each of my Cavaliers, upon being
released to its new owner, is accompanied by the
following:
1. Feeding instructions.
2. Written medical records, which will include
immunizations, types of vaccine used, date(s) of
inoculations, date(s) of worming if any.
3. A pedigree showing at least three generations.
4. A copy of the Code of Ethics.
5. A CKCSC Membership Application form.
6. A Certificate of Health, signed by my veterinarian.
G. I will see that the necessary forms and fees to transfer
ownership are submitted to the Registration Secretary.
H. I will encourage all new owners to have their Cavaliers
checked by a veterinarian within forty-eight hours of
time of acquisition.
I. I will encourage all new owners to keep me informed
concerning the development of any Cavalier obtained from
me, and to advise me of any problems that may develop
during its lifetime, as well as of the eventual cause of
death.
J. I will ask the owners of any dog acquired from me to
advise me if they are ever unable to keep their Cavalier,
so that I can either take the dog back or give every
assistance in rehoming it.
K. I understand that if I co-own a dog it is wise to have a
contract drawn up, signed by both co-owners, stating the
exact terms of co-ownership.
L. I will be certain that any advertising I do of my
Cavaliers, written or oral, is factual and honest in both
substance and implication.
General Conduct Of Members
I will remember at all times that the CKCSC exists to protect and
improve the breed, and that these aims must be uppermost in all
activities within the breed.
A. I will
1. Try to educate each owner or interested person, and
be constructive as well as instructive in my
comments.
2. Always demonstrate good sportsmanship both inside
and outside the show ring.
3. Behave in a manner that will be conducive to the
advancement of our Breed and our Club.
4. Provide my dog(s) with adequate exercise, proper
diet, and the necessary inoculations.
5. Maintain sanitary conditions for my dog(s).
6. Make every effort to do what is best for my
Cavalier, including house-breaking and general
training, so he will become a dog which is a
pleasure to live with.
7. Assure that my Cavalier has good medical care
throughout his lifetime, even if he develops a
chronic or acute illness or condition, and make
sure he is given euthanosis when I know this has
become necessary, realizing these are the
responsibilities of dog ownership.
8. Conform to Section III of this Code should it ever
become necessary to sell, give away, or otherwise
rehome my Cavalier(s).
B. I will not
1. Knowingly falsify pedigree or breeding information.
2. Seller Cavaliers to pet shops either on consignment
or outright.
3. Supply Cavaliers for auctions, raffles, or other
such enterprises.
4. Knowingly sell to unethical breeders, or sell to
persons whose intention is to resell is known or
suspected.
5. Purchase any Cavalier or any litter for resale
either to an individual or a commercial
establishment.
6. Maliciously degrade another member's Cavalier,
kennel, or practices.
C. In all questions of Ethics not covered by this Code, I
will act in the best interest of the breed at all times.
Exhibiting
A. I will not exhibit in an Official Conformation Class any
Cavalier which has been changed in appearance or gait by
artificial means, except for the removal of its dewclaws and
the optional docking of its tail. The term "artificial
means" covers any attempt to alter the appearance or gait of
the dog, whether it be by coloring, trimming, surgery or any
other method.
B. When I exhibit my Cavalier(s) I will be considerate of all
other exhibitors and their dogs, remembering that I as well
as my Cavalier, represent our breed and our Club.
Enforcement And Appeals
A. I acknowledge that a violation of the Code of Ethics may
be cause for suspension or expulsion under the provisions
of Article III, Section 9 of the By-laws of the CKCSC.
B. I understand that it is my responsibility to notify an
Officer or Director if I suspect a violation of this
code.
C. I understand that an appeals method will be established
by the Board of Directors in accordance with the
Constitution and By-laws of the CKCSC, whereby a member
found guilty of a violation of this Code may appeal this
decision.
D. I understand that members of the Board of Directors may
not take an active part in decisions which personally
affect them.
Exceptions
It is recognized that legitimate exceptions to this Code of Ethics
may arise from time to time. In such cases, any member may request
that the problem be reviewed by the President, or the President's
designee(s), who will make a recommendation to the Board of
Directors. Furthermore, in certain cases, upon sufficient evidence
and under conditions where the welfare of the breed is assured, the
Board of Directors may waive any of the foregoing provisions.
BIBLIOGRAPHY
For more information about Cavalier King Charles Spaniels,
look for the following books:
1. Booth, Evelyn. All about the Cavalier King Charles
Spaniels. England, Pelham Books, 1983.
2. Burgess, Susan. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.
England, Dog Owner's Library, 1975.
3. Cuddy. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. 1991.
4. Evans. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels - An Owner's
Companion. 1990.
5. Forwood, Mary. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.
England, Popular Dogs Publishing Co., 1978. Available
through Dog World Books.
6. Spalding, Elizabeth. How to Raise and Train a Cavalier
King Charles Spaniel. U.S.A., T.F.H. Publications, Inc.,
1965.
7. Stenning, Edith. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels.
England, Foyles, 1964.
8. Pennington, Alicia. The Royal Toy Spaniel. England,
Ringpress Books, LTD., 1989.