The history of the breed is somewhat fuzzy at best. You may recognize them as family pets if you study paintings of the aristocratic families of Europe. At the time of Queen Elizabeth I, nobility used the Cavaliers to help keep warm as most of the houses and castles were large and drafty with very little heat. The Cavalier was a great favorite of King charles I. Because of this the name King Charles became more widely used. It was also said that a spaniel was with the Duke of Marlborough during the Battle of Blenheim, hence the name given to the chestnut and white Cavaliers of today. Stories go further to say that Sarah, the dutchess, was anxiously awaiting battle-front news from her husband. Each day she would kiss her thumb and press it to her Blenheim's head. When the dog had puppies, each pup had a "Blenheim Kiss" atop its head. Other colors of the breed include black & tan, ruby and tri-color (black, tan and white).
Breed History
