Dogs of the small spaniel-type have existed for centuries and the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel has documented its place among them. They have been recorded in paintings and tapestries for centuries together with the aristocratic families who enjoyed their loyal companionship.

Today’s Cavalier is directly modeled on its royal ancestors but. In 1952, the first Cavaliers were sent to America and a national breed club was formed soon after, but because of the small numbers of Cavaliers they did not gain full breed recognition for 40 years.

January 1, 1996 saw the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel enter the American Kennel Club competition as the 140th recognized breed.