About Royal Country Cavaliers of Missouri

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a beloved toy breed known for its affectionate nature, graceful appearance, and soulful eyes. Bred as companion dogs for royalty, these pups are true lap dogs who thrive on human interaction and love nothing more than being close to their people. They typically weigh between 13 to 18 pounds and carry an elegant, silky coat with feathering on their ears, chest, legs, and tail. Cavaliers are well-suited for families, singles, and seniors alike, thanks to their gentle disposition, adaptability, and friendly attitude toward other animals and children. While they enjoy play and short bursts of energy, they’re equally happy to snuggle up for long naps and companionship.

One of the most charming things about Cavaliers is their variety of beautiful coat colors. There are four recognized color patterns, each with its own unique look and fan base.

• Blenheim is perhaps the most iconic of the colors—these Cavaliers have a pearly white coat with rich chestnut markings, typically appearing on the ears and around the eyes. A notable feature in many Blenheims is the “Blenheim spot,” a small chestnut dot centered on the top of the head—a trait treasured by enthusiasts.
   
• Tri-color Cavaliers have a bold, striking appearance with jet black and white coats, accented with tan markings above the eyes, on the cheeks, inside the ears, and beneath the tail. This variety is known for its expressive, dramatic contrast.
   
• Ruby Cavaliers are a solid, rich red all over. Unlike the other varieties, they have no white or black markings, giving them a regal and uniform appearance. Their deep ruby coat stands out for its warmth and elegance.
   
•  Black and Tan Cavaliers are sleek and elegant, with a shiny black coat complemented by tan markings above the eyes, on the muzzle, chest, legs, and underside of the tail. This color combination gives them a refined, classic look.
   

Regardless of color, all Cavaliers share the same sweet temperament and affectionate nature that make them such beloved companions. Whether you're drawn to the classic beauty of a Blenheim or the rich tones of a Ruby or Chocolate, each Cavalier is a loving and loyal friend, ready to win hearts with just one look.

🍫What is the "chocolate gene" and why is it important?🍫

•  The chocolate color is the result of a recessive allele at the B locus (the brown gene). When a Cavalier inherits two copies of the "b" allele (bb), the black pigment (eumelanin) in the coat, nose, and eyes is diluted to brown or chocolate. This can affect dogs that would otherwise be Black and Tan or Tri-color, turning their black areas into a softer chocolate tone and giving them a brown nose instead of a black one. Our girl, Raine, carries this gene!