Cavalier King Charles Spaniel vs Toy Poodle

Toy · Small vs Toy · Toy

Quick take
  • Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is the larger breed at 13–18 lbs (males) vs 4–6 lbs for the Toy Poodle.
  • The Toy Poodle typically lives longer (10–18 years).
  • The Toy Poodle has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Toy Poodle sheds less.
  • The Toy Poodle is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitCavalier King Charles SpanielToy Poodle
Group
ToyToy
Size
SmallToy
Origin
EnglandGermany
Height (male)
12–13"9–10"
Height (female)
12–13"9–10"
Weight (male)
13–18 lbs4–6 lbs
Weight (female)
13–18 lbs4–6 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–15 years10–18 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)Very Low (1/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
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)Very High (5/5)
Coat length
mediumlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoYes
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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 Toy Poodle

The Toy Poodle is an active, intelligent, lively toy version of the Poodle — apartment-friendly hypoallergenic charmer. Originally from Germany, this toy toy breed typically weighs 4–6 lbs and lives 10–18 years. Breeders describe them as active, intelligent, lively.

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Cavalier King Charles Spaniel health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

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

Toy Poodle health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Tracheal collapse
  • Eye disorders
  • Dental issues