Prince Charles Spaniel Dog: The Rare Tricolor Toy Spaniel Guide
Discover the Prince Charles Spaniel dog — a rare tricolor toy spaniel with royal roots. Learn temperament, health risks, care needs, and where to find one.
What Exactly Is a Prince Charles Spaniel Dog?
If you've been searching for a Prince Charles Spaniel dog, you've likely run into a wall of confusion. That's because the "Prince Charles Spaniel" is not a standalone breed recognized by any major kennel club. Instead, it refers to a specific and strikingly beautiful tricolor coat pattern within two closely related toy spaniel breeds: the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and the King Charles Spaniel (known in the US as the English Toy Spaniel).
The tricolor variety — black and white with rich tan markings above the eyes, on the cheeks, inside the ears, and under the tail — has been historically called the "Prince Charles" pattern. Among King Charles Spaniel fanciers in the UK, the tricolor was once designated as the "Prince Charles" variety, alongside the "King Charles" (black and tan), "Blenheim" (chestnut and white), and "Ruby" (solid chestnut) varieties.
This guide unpacks everything you need to know about finding, raising, and caring for a Prince Charles Spaniel dog — whether you're drawn to the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel in tricolor or the rarer English Toy Spaniel in the Prince Charles variety.
Origin Story: Royal Lap Dogs With Centuries of History
The story of the Prince Charles Spaniel dog stretches back to the royal courts of England and Scotland in the 16th and 17th centuries. Toy spaniels were favored companions of nobility, appearing in paintings alongside monarchs and aristocrats.
Breed Origin Timeline
- 1500s–1600s: Toy spaniels arrive in Britain from continental Europe, likely from Spain or Italy. They serve exclusively as companion dogs for royalty and nobility — never as hunting or working dogs.
- 1660s: King Charles II becomes famously devoted to his toy spaniels, reportedly allowing them free access to all royal chambers. The breed becomes associated with his name.
- 1800s: Crossbreeding with Asian flat-faced breeds (Pugs, Japanese Chin) during the Victorian era dramatically changes the toy spaniel's face, producing the domed skull and shortened muzzle of the modern King Charles Spaniel (English Toy Spaniel).
- 1920s: American breeder Roswell Eldridge offers a cash prize at Crufts for toy spaniels with the longer, flatter-faced "old type" seen in King Charles II's era. This sparks the development of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel as a separate breed.
- 1945: The UK Kennel Club officially recognizes the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel as distinct from the King Charles Spaniel.
- 1995: The American Kennel Club (AKC) recognizes the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. The English Toy Spaniel had been recognized since 1886.
The tricolor "Prince Charles" pattern has existed in toy spaniels for centuries. In some historical records, the tricolor was considered the rarest of the four King Charles Spaniel varieties, a status it largely retains today — particularly in the English Toy Spaniel.
Physical Profile: What Makes the Prince Charles Pattern Distinctive
Because "Prince Charles Spaniel dog" can refer to either breed carrying the tricolor coat, here's a side-by-side look at what to expect physically.
| Trait | Cavalier King Charles Spaniel | English Toy Spaniel (King Charles Spaniel) |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 13–18 lb / 5.9–8.2 kg | 8–14 lb / 3.6–6.4 kg |
| Height | 12–13 in / 30–33 cm | 9–10 in / 23–25 cm |
| Lifespan | 12–15 years | 10–12 years |
| Head Shape | Moderately flat skull, gentle stop, longer muzzle | Large domed skull, deep stop, very short muzzle (brachycephalic) |
| Coat | Moderate length, silky, feathering on ears/chest/legs/tail | Long, flowing, profuse, heavy feathering |
| Prince Charles Coloring | Pearly white ground with black patches, tan markings on cheeks/eyebrows/inside ears/under tail | Same tricolor pattern; white should not predominate per UK breed standard |
| Energy Level | Moderate — 30–45 min exercise/day | Low to moderate — 20–30 min exercise/day |
| Grooming | Brush 3–4x/week; professional groom every 6–8 weeks | Daily brushing; professional groom every 4–6 weeks |
The most visually striking feature of the Prince Charles pattern is the contrast between the jet-black patches and the pearly white base coat, accented by warm tan (mahogany) markings. On well-bred examples, the tan eyebrow spots — sometimes called "pips" — are clearly defined and symmetrical, giving the dog an expressive, almost quizzical expression.
Temperament: What Surprises New Owners
Most people expect a small lap dog to be quiet and sedate. The Prince Charles Spaniel dog — particularly in the Cavalier variety — tends to surprise first-time owners in several ways:
They're far more athletic than they look. Cavaliers, despite their reputation as cushion companions, retain genuine sporting-dog instincts. Many excel at agility, rally obedience, and even fieldwork at the lower levels. Don't be shocked if your tricolor Cavalier tries to flush birds on a walk or shows unexpected speed in the backyard.
Separation anxiety is nearly universal. Both breeds were literally designed over centuries to sit on laps. They bond intensely and do not handle solitude well. Expect whining, pacing, and potentially destructive behavior if left alone for more than 3–4 hours regularly. This is not a breed for people who work 10-hour days away from home without a dog walker or daycare arrangement.
They follow you everywhere. "Velcro dog" is an understatement. Your Prince Charles Spaniel will accompany you to the bathroom, wait outside the shower, and position itself against your legs while you cook. This is endearing until it isn't — plan for crate training from day one to give your dog (and yourself) healthy boundaries.
The English Toy Spaniel variety is noticeably more reserved. If you're looking at the King Charles Spaniel (English Toy) in the Prince Charles pattern, expect a more aloof, cat-like personality. They tend to bond with one person, may be wary of strangers, and are generally less tolerant of young children's handling. The Cavalier is typically the more outgoing, family-friendly option.
Breed-Specific Health Concerns You Must Know About
Both breeds carrying the Prince Charles pattern have significant, well-documented health risks. Any reputable breeder should provide documented health screening. Always consult your veterinarian about a screening and prevention plan tailored to your individual dog.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Health Risks
| Condition | Prevalence | Onset | Screening |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mitral Valve Disease (MVD) | Over 50% of Cavaliers develop a heart murmur by age 5; nearly all by age 10 (Merck Veterinary Manual) | Murmurs often detected at 2–5 years | Annual cardiac exam by veterinary cardiologist; breeding stock should be cleared at 2.5+ years |
| Syringomyelia (SM) | Estimated 25–70% of Cavaliers show MRI signs; many are symptomatic | Symptoms often appear 6 months–3 years | MRI screening of breeding stock; watch for neck scratching, yelping, sensitivity to touch |
| Hip Dysplasia | Approximately 12–15% per OFA data | Variable; signs often at 1–2 years | OFA or PennHIP evaluation at 2+ years |
| Eye Conditions (cataracts, retinal dysplasia) | Moderate prevalence | Variable | Annual CERF/OFA ophthalmologist exam |
| Episodic Falling | Genetic condition; carrier frequency around 10–15% | Usually before 1 year of age | DNA test available; breeders should test breeding stock |
English Toy Spaniel (King Charles Spaniel) Health Risks
As a brachycephalic breed, the English Toy Spaniel faces additional concerns:
- Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS): The extremely short muzzle can cause breathing difficulties, exercise intolerance, heat stress, and sleep apnea. Keep your dog cool — never exercise in temperatures above 75°F (24°C) without close monitoring.
- Patellar Luxation: Kneecap dislocation is common in small breeds; estimated 10–20% prevalence in English Toy Spaniels.
- Dental Crowding: The shortened jaw compresses teeth, accelerating periodontal disease. Daily tooth brushing and professional cleanings every 6–12 months are essential.
- Cardiac Disease: MVD also affects English Toy Spaniels, though at somewhat lower rates than Cavaliers.
- Eye Proptosis: The prominent eyes are vulnerable to injury. Avoid situations where branches, cat claws, or rough play could cause trauma.
Daily Care Requirements for the Prince Charles Spaniel
Care Checklist
| Area | Cavalier (Tricolor) | English Toy Spaniel (Prince Charles) |
|---|---|---|
| Exercise | 30–45 min/day: two walks plus play; enjoys hiking, fetch, low-level agility | 20–30 min/day: short walks, indoor play; avoid heat and overexertion |
| Brushing | 3–4x/week with slicker brush; focus on ear feathering and chest | Daily; heavy feathering mats easily behind ears and in armpits |
| Ear Care | Clean weekly with vet-approved ear cleaner; long ears trap moisture and debris | Clean weekly; same risk of otitis externa |
| Dental | Daily brushing; professional cleaning annually from age 3+ | Daily brushing critical; professional cleaning every 6–12 months due to crowding |
| Nutrition | AAFCO-approved small-breed formula; ¾–1.5 cups/day; watch weight closely (obesity worsens MVD) | Small-breed kibble or wet food; ½–1 cup/day; smaller kibble size for short jaw |
| Training | Positive reinforcement; highly food-motivated; responds to praise; sensitive to harsh corrections | Positive reinforcement; can be willful; short sessions (5–10 min); patience required |
One often-overlooked care requirement for the Prince Charles tricolor coat: the white patches can be prone to tear staining, especially around the eyes. Daily wiping with a soft damp cloth and keeping the eye area trimmed helps prevent the reddish-brown discoloration caused by porphyrins in tears. Some owners find that switching to a stainless steel or ceramic water bowl (instead of plastic) reduces staining around the muzzle.
How Rare Is the Prince Charles Spaniel Dog Today?
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is the 14th most popular breed in the US according to AKC registration data. However, the tricolor (Prince Charles) is the least common of the four Cavalier coat colors. Blenheim (chestnut and white) dominates the breed population, followed by ruby, black-and-tan (tri-color without the white base — actually called "Black & Tan"), and then the true tricolor.
For the English Toy Spaniel, the situation is far more extreme. The breed as a whole is rare — ranked 144th out of 201 AKC-recognized breeds. The Prince Charles variety is the least commonly seen of its four varieties. Finding a Prince Charles English Toy Spaniel puppy may require joining a breeder waitlist lasting 12–24 months or more.
How Does the Prince Charles Spaniel Compare to Similar Breeds?
| Trait | Cavalier King Charles (Tricolor) | Papillon (Tricolor) | Japanese Chin (Tricolor) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 13–18 lb | 5–10 lb | 7–11 lb |
| Energy | Moderate | High | Low |
| Shedding | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate to heavy |
| Trainability | High; eager to please | Very high; excels in dog sports | Moderate; independent streak |
| Child-Friendly | Yes (supervised; gentle) | Older children only (fragile) | Older children only |
| Key Health Risk | MVD, Syringomyelia | Patellar luxation, dental | BOAS, eye proptosis |
Availability, Pricing, and Finding a Responsible Breeder
Because the Prince Charles tricolor is the rarest color in both breeds, expect to pay a premium and potentially wait longer than for more common colors.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel (Tricolor):
- Puppy price from a health-tested breeder: $2,500–$4,500+ (2026 pricing)
- Tricolor may carry a $200–$500 premium over Blenheim from some breeders
- Waitlist: 6–18 months is typical for color-specific requests
English Toy Spaniel (Prince Charles variety):
- Puppy price: $2,000–$3,500
- Waitlist: Often 12–24+ months due to extreme rarity and small litter sizes (typically 2–4 puppies)
- Very few breeders in the US focus specifically on the Prince Charles variety
Breeder Red Flags to Watch For
Because of the rarity and price premium, Prince Charles spaniels attract unethical breeders. Walk away if you encounter:
- No cardiac screening documentation — any Cavalier breeder who cannot show OFA cardiologist clearance for both parents is unacceptable
- "Rare color" marketing hype — responsible breeders prioritize health and temperament, not coat color novelty
- Multiple litters always available — indicates a commercial breeding operation (puppy mill)
- No take-back clause — a reputable breeder will contractually require the dog be returned to them if you cannot keep it, at any point in its life
- Prices over $6,000 for a pet-quality puppy — extreme pricing often signals a broker, not a breeder
- Unrecognized registries — AKC, UKC, or FCI registration is expected; "ACA" or "continental" registries are often associated with puppy mills
For the Cavalier, start with the American Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Club breeder directory. For the English Toy Spaniel, the AKC English Toy Spaniel page links to the national breed club. Adoption is also an option — Cavalier rescue organizations like Cavalier Rescue USA occasionally have tricolor dogs available, typically adults at adoption fees of $400–$800.
Is the Prince Charles Spaniel Right for Your Family?
The Prince Charles Spaniel dog — in either breed — is an excellent fit for:
- Households where someone is home most of the day
- Families with gentle, supervised children (Cavalier variety especially)
- Apartment dwellers who can commit to daily walks
- First-time dog owners willing to invest in health screening and preventive care
- People seeking a therapy dog candidate — Cavaliers are among the top therapy dog breeds
This is not a good fit for:
- People away from home 8+ hours daily without dog care arrangements
- Households with very young, rambunctious children who may accidentally injure a small dog
- Owners unwilling to budget for potential cardiac care — MVD treatment (medications like pimobendan, vet cardiology visits) can cost $1,500–$4,000+ annually in later stages
- Those seeking a low-maintenance grooming commitment
- Hot climates without air conditioning (especially the English Toy Spaniel variety, due to BOAS risk)
First-year ownership costs for a Prince Charles Spaniel, including puppy price, initial veterinary exams, vaccinations, spay/neuter, crate, supplies, and pet insurance, typically range from $4,500–$7,500. Annual ongoing costs (food, grooming, preventive medications, insurance, routine vet care) run approximately $1,800–$3,200 per year, rising significantly if cardiac or neurological conditions develop.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a Prince Charles Spaniel a separate breed?
No. "Prince Charles" refers to the tricolor coat pattern found in both the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and the English Toy Spaniel (King Charles Spaniel). It is a color variety, not a distinct breed. No major kennel club recognizes it as a standalone breed.
Why is the tricolor called "Prince Charles"?
The name is believed to reference the historical association of toy spaniels with British royalty, particularly King Charles II. In the UK King Charles Spaniel breed standard, the four varieties were historically named: King Charles (black and tan), Prince Charles (tricolor), Blenheim (chestnut and white), and Ruby (solid red). The tradition carried over informally to the Cavalier breed.
Are Prince Charles Cavaliers more expensive than other colors?
Sometimes. Because tricolor is the least common Cavalier coat color, some breeders charge a modest premium of $200–$500. However, responsible breeders price primarily based on health testing investment and breeding quality, not coat color. Be wary of breeders who heavily market "rare colors" at inflated prices.
Can I find a Prince Charles Spaniel in rescue?
Yes, though it requires patience. Breed-specific Cavalier rescue organizations occasionally have tricolor dogs. Since you're looking for a specific color within an already uncommon breed, expect to wait 6–18 months and be flexible about age. Adult dogs are more commonly available than puppies in rescue settings.
Do tricolor Cavaliers have different health risks than other colors?
There is no evidence that the tricolor coat pattern itself causes additional health problems. All Cavaliers, regardless of color, share the same breed-level risks for mitral valve disease, syringomyelia, and other conditions. Color does not predict health.
How do I know if a puppy is truly tricolor and not black-and-tan?
A true Prince Charles tricolor has a white base coat with black patches and tan points. A Black & Tan Cavalier has no white — it is solid black with tan markings. At birth, tricolor puppies show visible white on the chest, face, and paws. If a breeder is unsure, wait until the puppy is 4–6 weeks old, when the coat pattern is clearly established.
Aaron Whyte
All our authors care for dogs every day — read more of their work on the authors page.
