Cavalier King Charles Spaniel vs Dalmatian

Toy · Small vs Non-Sporting · Medium

Quick take
  • Dalmatian is the larger breed at 45–70 lbs (males) vs 13–18 lbs for the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.
  • The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel typically lives longer (12–15 years).
  • The Dalmatian has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitCavalier King Charles SpanielDalmatian
Group
ToyNon-Sporting
Size
SmallMedium
Origin
EnglandCroatia
Height (male)
12–13"19–24"
Height (female)
12–13"19–24"
Weight (male)
13–18 lbs45–70 lbs
Weight (female)
13–18 lbs45–70 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–15 years11–13 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
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)Low (2/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Very Low (1/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
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 Dalmatian

The Dalmatian is a dignified, smart, outgoing spotted coach dog — 101 Dalmatians, original carriage and firehouse dog. Originally from Croatia, this medium non-sporting breed typically weighs 45–70 lbs and lives 11–13 years. Breeders describe them as dignified, smart, outgoing.

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Cavalier King Charles Spaniel health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

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

Dalmatian health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Deafness
  • Urinary stones
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Skin allergies