Are Cavalier King Charles Spaniels double-coated?

A deciding factor for or against a dog for many people is the shedding of the dog. In this article, we will discuss whether Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are double-coated and shed a lot.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels have a silky coat with a little undercoat. They shed a little fur throughout the year, but not as much as dogs with dense undercoats that shed twice a year. Although Cavalier King Charles shed less than other breeds, it is unsuitable for allergy sufferers.

Do Cavalier King Charles Spaniels have a double coat?

A crucial factor in whether a dog, in this case, a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, sheds a lot is whether it has an undercoat or a double coat.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels have little to no undercoat, which means they have no double coat. For this reason, he does not shed twice a year heavily. However, he sheds his silky hair continuously.

Why do Cavalier King Charles Spaniels shed?

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels shed like almost all dogs. This is a natural process where old, dead hair falls out so that new hair can grow back.

Many terriers are known for not shedding. But also, in these breeds, hairs die, but they do not fall out by themselves but must be removed regularly by trimming. Dogs that do not shed do not exist or have a peculiarity.

Or the coat keeps growing and needs to be cut at regular intervals. Either way, you have work to do with coat care at some point.

Reasons why Cavalier King Charles Spaniels shed extremely

So now we know that Cavalier King Charles Spaniels regularly lose hair, but this is limited because they have no double coat or, better said, no undercoat.

But if your Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is shedding significantly, this can have several reasons.

Low-quality dog food

Poor quality and nutrient-poor food are often why your Cavalier King Charles Spaniel sheds extremely. Also, the coat must be supplied with all the necessary nutrients.

Lousy dog food is also why your Cavalier King Charles Spaniel smells stronger.

If you have low cheap food that is poor in necessary nutrients and, in addition, may contain a lot of “garbage,” this can lead to an undersupply. Your Cavalier King Charles Spaniel will lose more hair than usual.

Food intolerance

Even if you have good dog food, it does not necessarily mean your dog will tolerate it. Your Cavalier might not take some ingredients, so he sheds more hair than usual. In this case, a visit to the vet is recommended.

Stress

Stress also causes high cortisol levels in dogs and can be the reason for excessive shedding. Check if your dog has too much pressure. Do you often leave your Cavalier King Charles Spaniel alone, which stresses him too much?

Too little exercise and activity can also cause stress in a dog in the long run. For example, if they start yapping or running around the apartment restlessly due to boredom or frustration, this means stress.

Diseases

Often, however, there are health factors behind excessive shedding. Take your Cavalier King Charles Spaniel to your veterinarian and have him check if everything is all right.

Are Cavalier King Charles Spaniels Hypoallergenic?

Since Cavalier King Charles Spaniels shed all year round, it is not hypoallergenic and unsuitable for allergy sufferers.

However, allergy sufferers react less to the hair than to the protein compounds from saliva and urine that are found on the hair.

So, if you are allergic to dog hair, you will come into contact with them much faster because they are on furniture and clothing.

You can also react allergic to dogs that do not shed, but the risk of getting into direct contact with the hair is less.

How to groom your Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels have long silky coat that needs regular grooming.

However, combing the coat briefly after a walk in the woods is usually sufficient to remove small branches, leaves, or other dirt from the coat and then brush it smoothly.

Since this is a relatively small dog, this is usually done quickly.

By regular combing and brushing, you prevent the matting of the coat. For grooming, a dog comb* is perfect for loosening knots, and a soft dog brush*.

Bathing your Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is recommended only in emergencies. Under no circumstances should you use your shampoo. Dogs have a different PH Value and need a special dog shampoo.

Generally, a dog should not be bathed unnecessarily, as its coat protects against wetness and dirt.

Tipp: Start combing and brushing your Cavalier King Charles Spaniel when he is still a puppy. This way, he will get used to it immediately, making your job easier later on.

Don’t think of grooming your dog exclusively as work. Instead, think of it as the time you spend together and an activity that can help strengthen your bond. The Cavalier loves to cuddle and be petted on your lap. Just combine that with grooming.

Related Cavalier King Charles Posts:

• Why do Cavalier King Charles Spaniels smell?
• Do Cavalier King Charles Spaniels like to swim?

Conclusion: Does a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel shed a lot?

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels shed an average amount of hair. Like all dogs, they shed old, dead hair so that new hair can grow back. This is a natural process that just about every dog goes through. Therefore, the Cavalier is not suitable for allergy sufferers.

Alex Ishchenko-stock.adobe.com (Contributing image)