ENGLISH TOY SPANIEL

breed of dog known in Britain since Tudor times but which apparently originated in ancient Japan or China. It was favoured by Mary, Queen of Scots, King Charles II (after whom it was named the King Charles Spaniel), and Queen Victoria, as well as by members of the aristocracy. A compact little dog with a domed head, short nose, and large, dark eyes, it has long, heavily haired, hanging ears and a long, soft, wavy coat. It stands 23 to 25.5 cm (9 to 10 inches) and weighs about 4 to 5.5 kg (9 to 12 pounds). There are four varieties, all similar except in colour. The King Charles variety is black and tan, as in the original members of the breed; the Prince Charles is black, tan, and white; the Blenheim is reddish brown and white; the Ruby is solid reddish brown. In Britain, all varieties except the Blenheim are grouped as King Charles spaniels. Cavalier King Charles spaniel. The Cavalier King Charles spaniel is a different breed, recognized in Britain and the United States. It appears in the same coat colours as the English toy spaniels, but it is larger (4.5 to 8 kg [10 to 18 pounds]) and has a longer muzzle. See the Table of Selected Breeds of Toy Dogs for further information.