The English Toy Spaniel is a friendly and easy-going member of the Toy Group. With a Pug-like expression and it’s gentle manner, this breed is the perfect pet for anyone that enjoys a reserved, easy-to-raise house dog. They are friendly to both strangers and other pets, and also make an excellent watchdog.

A Brief History Of The English Toy Spaniel

As its name suggests, the area of origin of the breed is England. They were used to flush birds out for hunters in addition to being a loving family companion at home. Interestingly enough, they share the same history to that of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. Both started out as one breed, more likely from crosses of Oriental toy breeds and small spaniels.

Researchers claim that the breed started from toy spaniels that were brought to Scotland from France, by Mary, Queen of Scots. The rich adored the little dog and they became common lapdogs for the wealthy class. When the 17th century came about, the dogs became even more popular, especially with King Charles II, to which he is credited for officially naming the breed after his name – King Charles Spaniels.

These early King Charles Spaniels were all black and tan with variations developed soon after. Through the following centuries, these dogs were bred down to be smaller in size with physical differences – in the rounder shape of the head and a much flatter nose. In the United States these new versions were known as English Toy Spaniels.

Upkeep Requirements For The English Toy Spaniel

Toy dog breeds are typically very active and spunky, however, the English Toy Spaniel does not fit into this category at all. It is calm, reserved, and does not need much activity to keep up with its exercise requirements. A few walks on the leash each day is plenty.

These dogs do not tolerate heat well and should live indoors. Outside playtime in the yard is acceptable so long as the weather is on the cool side. Grooming requirements for the breed call for a thorough brushing at least twice per week.

Health Issues

The average lifespan of the English Toy Spaniel is between ten and twelve years. Major health concerns that run common in the breed are patellar luxation only. Minor issues that may show up include early tooth loss and droopy tongue (when the tongue hangs uncontrollably from the mouth). PDA is sometimes seen. Veterinarians suggest that English Toy Spaniels get tested for knee problems.

English Toy Spaniel: A Complete and Reliable Handbook (Rare Breed)

Overall Rating:

Retail Price: $19.95

Amazon Price: $9.55

An excellent family companion and hunter, the English Springer Spaniel is a member of the sporting group. This breed never seems to run out of cheerful personality and can literally run and play for hours without getting tired.
(more…)

Nets were once the tool used to catch fowl, which were helped by dogs that were trained to crouch whenever they pointed game. “Setters” as these dogs were called, were the foundation of today’s English Setter.
(more…)

The history of the Doberman Pinscher is quite interesting. During the 1800s, a man named Louis Doberman from Thuringen in Germany was a tax  collector.  Each day he would set out on foot and go walk door-to-door asking people to pay their overdue taxes.
(more…)

Dachshund Information:

The Dachshund dog was officially recognized by the AKC in the early 1900s, and according the the current AKC registration list, it dog has become one of the top five registered breeds today. This small sized member of the hound group has an unforgettable appearance, with a short, long body, small legs, and a handsome pointed face.

(more…)

Curly Coated Retriever Information

The Curly Coated Retriever is one of the best rated sporting dogs, and they have seemingly boundless energy to retrieve both on land and in water. Their tolerance for cold water enables this dog to be a great partner for a hunter during winter.
(more…)

Collie Dog Breed Information

The exact origins of the Collie dog breed are unknown, as is the origin of its name. One theory is that the Collie was derived from the same bloodline as the Border Collie.

Another theory concerning the name “Collie” is that it comes from the Gaelic word for “useful”, which definitely describes their value for farmers and as stock dogs. They were considered to be of high value to the the Celts when they first settled in the British Isles.
(more…)

Cocker Spaniel Information:

Cocker Spaniels (the American version) were derived from English Cocker Spaniels after they found their way to the United States in the late 1800s. Americans preferred to breed a smaller sized Spaniel that would be ideal to hunt quail in various other small birds. Although the exact practice and decision to which the American version was created is not entirely known, we do know that the first true American Cocker Spaniel was recorded to be born sometime in the 1880s and his name was the dog Obo 2nd.

(more…)

Chow Chow Information

It is common to compare the Chow Chow to the Spitz dog breed because they share many of the same characteristics.  It is been assumed that because they are so closely related, the Chow Chow is actually a descendant from the Spitz family, but the true bloodline of the Chow Chow cannot be confirmed.  However, we do know that this dog has been widely popular in China for hundreds of years, possibly thousands.
(more…)

Shar Pei Information

The exact origins of the Chinese Shar-Pei is unknown, but experts agree that the breed may be connected to the Chow Chow. Both breeds stand a good chance of sharing the same ancestry, and both are from China.

(more…)