Cavalier King Charles Spaniel vs Chihuahua

Toy · Small vs Toy · Toy

Quick take
  • Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is the larger breed at 13–18 lbs (males) vs 6 lbs for the Chihuahua.
  • The Chihuahua typically lives longer (14–16 years).
  • The Chihuahua has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Chihuahua sheds less.
  • The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitCavalier King Charles SpanielChihuahua
Group
ToyToy
Size
SmallToy
Origin
EnglandMexico
Height (male)
12–13"5–8"
Height (female)
12–13"5–8"
Weight (male)
13–18 lbs6 lbs
Weight (female)
13–18 lbs6 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–15 years14–16 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)Low (2/5)
Good with other dogs
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
Very High (5/5)Low (2/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Very Low (1/5)High (4/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Coat length
mediumshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is an affectionate, gentle, graceful spaniel — bred as a lapdog companion to British royalty. Originally from England, this small toy breed typically weighs 13–18 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as affectionate, gentle, graceful.

About the Chihuahua

The Chihuahua is a graceful, charming, sassy tiny dog of Mexican origin — the world's smallest breed, big in personality. Originally from Mexico, this toy toy breed typically weighs 6 lbs and lives 14–16 years. Breeders describe them as graceful, charming, sassy.

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Cavalier King Charles Spaniel health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Mitral valve disease
  • Syringomyelia
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye problems

Chihuahua health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Hydrocephalus
  • Heart disease
  • Dental issues