Chihuahua vs Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Size Category
Small
Ideal For
Families, Multi-pet Homes
Maintenance Level
Moderate
Decision Helper
Quick Decision Guide
Chihuahua might be better if you:
- Lead an active lifestyle
- Prefer low-maintenance grooming
- Want a smaller dog that's easy to carry
- Want a breed known for longevity
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel might be better if you:
- Want a dog great with children
- Have other pets at home
- Want an easily trainable dog
- Prefer low-maintenance grooming
- Often have visitors or socialize frequently
- Want a smaller dog that's easy to carry
Find Your Match
Quick Match Quiz
Question 1 of 7
What best describes your lifestyle?
Breed Overview
Chihuahua
The Chihuahua is one of the smallest dog breeds, known for its lively personality and strong bond with its owner. They typically weigh between 2 to 6 pounds and stand 6 to 9 inches tall. Chihuahuas come in a variety of coat colors and types, including smooth and long-haired. Their large, round eyes and big ears contribute to their expressive appearance. Chihuahuas are known for their confidence, often displaying a bold and sassy attitude despite their small size. They are loyal companions who can be very affectionate, but they may also exhibit a tendency to be territorial or protective, especially towards their owners. They can be wary of strangers, making them good watchdogs, but early socialization is important to help them develop a well-rounded temperament.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a small, elegant toy breed known for its affectionate nature and expressive eyes. They typically weigh between 13 to 18 pounds and stand about 12 to 13 inches tall at the shoulder. Their silky, medium-length coat comes in a variety of color combinations, including Blenheim, tricolor, ruby, and black and tan. This breed is known for its friendly and gentle disposition, making them excellent companions for families, singles, and seniors alike. Cavaliers are highly social dogs that thrive on human interaction and are known for their playful and affectionate demeanor. They are often described as adaptable, eager to please, and intelligent, making them relatively easy to train. However, they can be prone to separation anxiety if left alone for long periods.
Key Statistics
Life Expectancy
Height (Male)
Weight (Male)
Breed Characteristics
Good with Children
Moderate with children
Excellent with children
Good with Other Dogs
Generally friendly with other dogs
Very social with other dogs
Shedding
Light shedding level
Light shedding level
Grooming Needs
Low grooming needs
Low grooming needs
Trainability
Moderately trainable
Highly trainable
Energy Level
Very energetic breed
Moderately energetic breed
Barking Tendency
Frequent barking tendency
Moderate barking tendency
Care Requirements
Care Requirements
Chihuahua
Exercise Needs
Regular exercise needed
Grooming
Regularly groom to prevent matting and maintain coat health.
Feeding
Provide a balanced diet suitable for small breeds.
Health Care
Regularly groom to prevent matting and maintain coat health.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Exercise Needs
Feed a balanced diet appropriate for their age, size, and activity level.
Grooming
Brush their coat daily to prevent matting and reduce shedding.
Feeding
Feed a balanced diet appropriate for their age, size, and activity level.
Health Care
Check and clean their ears regularly to prevent infections.
Exercise Needs
Regular exercise needed
Exercise Needs
Feed a balanced diet appropriate for their age, size, and activity level.
Grooming
Regularly groom to prevent matting and maintain coat health.
Grooming
Brush their coat daily to prevent matting and reduce shedding.
Feeding
Provide a balanced diet suitable for small breeds.
Feeding
Feed a balanced diet appropriate for their age, size, and activity level.
Health Care
Regularly groom to prevent matting and maintain coat health.
Health Care
Check and clean their ears regularly to prevent infections.
Additional Care Notes
Chihuahua
- •Brush teeth regularly to prevent dental issues.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
- •Schedule regular veterinary check-ups and vaccinations.
Training & Exercise
Training & Exercise Guide
Chihuahua
Chihuahuas are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train. Start with basic commands such as sit, stay, come, and down. Use positive reinforcement techniques like treats and praise. Socialization is crucial, as Chihuahuas can be wary of strangers and other dogs. Begin training in a quiet environment and gradually introduce distractions as they progress.
Training Challenges
- •stubbornness
- •small dog syndrome
- •fearfulness
- •excessive barking
- •separation anxiety
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train. Basic training should start early and focus on commands such as sit, stay, come, and leash walking. Positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats and praise, are highly effective. Socialization with other dogs and people is also crucial to help them develop into well-rounded pets.
Training Challenges
- •Separation anxiety due to their strong attachment to owners
- •Distractibility in environments with many stimuli
- •Stubbornness when not motivated by treats or praise
- •Difficulty with house training if not consistent
Chihuahua
Chihuahuas are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train. Start with basic commands such as sit, stay, come, and down. Use positive reinforcement techniques like treats and praise. Socialization is crucial, as Chihuahuas can be wary of strangers and other dogs. Begin training in a quiet environment and gradually introduce distractions as they progress.
Training Challenges
- •stubbornness
- •small dog syndrome
- •fearfulness
- •excessive barking
- •separation anxiety
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train. Basic training should start early and focus on commands such as sit, stay, come, and leash walking. Positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats and praise, are highly effective. Socialization with other dogs and people is also crucial to help them develop into well-rounded pets.
Training Challenges
- •Separation anxiety due to their strong attachment to owners
- •Distractibility in environments with many stimuli
- •Stubbornness when not motivated by treats or praise
- •Difficulty with house training if not consistent
Training Resources
Chihuahua Training Guide
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Training Guide
Find Breeders
Find Chihuahua Breeders
Find Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Breeders
Local Search Tips
When looking for a reputable breeder in your area, consider these approaches:
- 1.
Contact local veterinarians for breeder recommendations - They often know reputable breeders who prioritize health testing and proper care.
- 2.
Join breed-specific clubs in your area - These communities can provide valuable connections and insights about responsible breeders.
- 3.
Attend local dog shows to meet breeders - This gives you the opportunity to see their dogs and discuss breeding practices in person.