The last few years have seen many of us welcome a new four-legged friend into our homes, as the Kennel Club has seen dog ownership soar to record levels.
But with 221 different breeds of pedigree dog to choose from, there’s plenty of thinking to do before you select your perfect pup.
Those with active lifestyles might want to consider a larger dog, while somebody with allergies will be looking for a hypoallergenic dog.
There’s even academic guidance to seek out, with Psychologist Stanley Coren’s book ‘The Intelligence of Dogs’ ranking breeds by instincts, obedience, and the ability to adapt.
One dog that often appears at the top of people’s canine wishlists is the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel – they are one of the UK’s most popular breeds and have a range of positive attributes that make them a great family pet.
Here are 10 fun and interesting facts about the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.
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5. First dog
American president Ronald Reagan gave first lady Nancy Reagan a Cavalier King Charles spaniel as a Christmas gift in 1985, and Rex lived in the White House during his second term in office. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
6. Show dog
A Cavalier King Charles Spaniel called Alansmere Aquarius won Best in Breed at Crufts in 1973. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
7. A recent export across the Atlantic
The first recorded Cavalier KIng Charles Spaniel didn't arrive in the USA until 1956. It was brought over from the UK by breeders W. Lyon Brown and Elizabeth Spalding. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
8. A duke's dog
During the early part of the 18th century, John Churchill, 1st Duke of Marlborough, kept red and white King Charles type spaniels for hunting at his Blenheim estate - and that's why red and white Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are called 'Blenheims' today. Photo: Canva/Getty Images