Cavalier History or Legend
The King Charles Spaniel has been known as the comforter spaniel of royalty since the fifteenth century. The only dogs that King Henry VII would allow at his court were small spaniels for the ladies. They were given the title of comforter spaniels because the ladies would hold them close to their body for warmth on long carriage rides, or they might use them as foot warmers by placing them on their feet under their long floor length skirts. Sir Echo at 6 weeks shown on the right
They were named after King Charles II, because his spaniels were always at his side even as he laid on his death-bed.
John Churchill "The Duke of Marlborough" fancied the red and white spaniels
known for their happy temperament and sporting instinct. When the Duke led
the British Army to victory in the Battle of Blenheim in the early 1700's, the British government in gratitude, built Blenheim Palace for him on the Marlborough estate, and the little red and white spaniels raised there were known are Blenheim.
Legend has it that Sarah "The Duchess of Marlborough", was anxiously awaiting for news from the Battle of Blenheim. She was hoping for her husbands safe return.and found comfort as she sat stroking the head of her favorite female Cavalier, (who was expecting at the time). Soon after that day, five puppies were born, and all with the MARK of the 'Duchess Thumb Print" on top their heads. Since then, it is desired for the Blenheim Spaniels to bear this Thumb Print or Blenheim Spot.
As you can see, The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is very special. For when a Cavalier puppy comes into your life, it fills a special place…
A place you never knew was empty.
