Breed Feeding Guide
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Feeding Guide
Gentle companion dogs prone to heart disease (mitral valve disease affects nearly all Cavaliers by age 10). Nutrition supporting heart health is especially important for this breed.
Weight Range
13–18lbs
Daily Calories
400–600kcal
Activity Level
Moderate
Lifespan
9–14 years
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Feeding by Life Stage
Puppy
Small-breed puppy formula. Feed 3–4 times daily until 6 months, then twice. Monitor growth — keep lean.
Transition to adult food: 10–12 months
Adult
Need 400–600 kcal/day. Two meals daily. Heart-healthy formula with taurine and omega-3s preferred. Keep sodium moderate.
Senior
Reduce calories slightly. Heart disease often progresses — follow vet dietary recommendations closely. May need prescription cardiac diet.
Dietary Considerations
Near-universal predisposition to mitral valve disease makes cardiac-supportive nutrition especially important. Taurine, L-carnitine, and omega-3 fatty acids support heart function. Avoid high-sodium foods and treats.
What to Look for in a Food
Foods with added taurine and L-carnitine, fish oil for omega-3, moderate sodium, adequate protein (24–28%), CoQ10 supplementation may benefit.
Weight Management
Cavaliers gain weight easily. Extra weight increases cardiac workload — critical to keep lean for a breed with heart disease. Body condition: easily feel ribs, visible waist.
Breed-Specific Health Considerations
These common health issues can be influenced by diet and nutrition:
Related Tools
Disclaimer: This guide provides general feeding recommendations for the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel breed. Individual dogs may have different needs based on health conditions, medications, and metabolism. Always consult your veterinarian for personalized dietary advice.