The AKC has grouped all of the breeds that it registers into seven categories, or groups, roughly based on function and heritage. Breeds are grouped together because they share traits of form and function or a common heritage.
The English Toy Spaniel is a compact, cobby and essentially square toy dog possessed of a short-nosed, domed head, a merry and affectionate demeanor and a silky, flowing coat. His compact, sturdy body and charming temperament, together with his rounded head, lustrous dark eye, and well cushioned face, proclaim him a dog of distinction and character. The important characteristics of the breed are exemplified by the head.
Large in comparison to size, with a plush, chubby look, albeit with a degree of refinement which prevents it from being coarse. Expression – Soft and appealing, indicating an intelligent nature. Eyes – Large and very dark brown or black, set squarely on line with the nose, with little or no white showing. The eye rims should be black. Ears – Very long and set low and close to the head, fringed with heavy feathering. Skull – High and well domed; from the side, curves as far out over the eyes as possible. Stop – Deep and well-defined.
Neck – Moderate in length; nicely arched. Topline – Level. Body – Short, compact, square and deep, on cobby lines, with a broad back. Sturdy of frame, with good rib and deep brisket.
Shoulders well laid back; legs well boned and strong, dropping straight down from the elbow; strong in pastern. Feet, front and rear, are neat and compact; fused toes are often seen and are acceptable.
Rear legs are well muscled and nicely angulated to indicate strength, and parallel of hock.
Profusely coated, heavy fringing on the ears, body, and on the chest, and with flowing feathering on both the front and hind legs, and feathering on the feet. The coat is straight or only slightly wavy, with a silken, glossy texture. Although the Blenheim and the Ruby rarely gain the length of coat and ears of the Prince Charles and King Charles, good coats and long ear fringes are a desired and prized attribute. Over-trimming of the body, feet or tail fringings should be penalized.
The ETS is a square, snub-nosed toy weighing no more than 14 pounds. The large domed head—with its long and lush ears, dark melting eyes, and chubby cheeks—is a famous breed trait. The profuse coat comes in four varieties, each with its own proper name: red and white (Blenheim); black and tan (King Charles); white, black, and tan (Prince Charles); and a solid red (Ruby). Blenheims often have a red mark, the “Blenheim Spot,” on top of the head.
The ETS, like many toy breeds kept by royals, came to assume the personalities of their aristocratic owners. They can be proud and willful, and extremely discriminating in their choice of friends. With their favored humans, they are affectionate at home and exuberant and curious at play.
The English Toy Spaniel should be fed a high-quality dog food appropriate to the dog’s age (puppy, adult, or senior) and ideally formulated for small or toy breeds. Some dogs are prone to getting overweight, so watch your dog’s calorie consumption and weight level. Treats can be an important aid in training, but giving too many can cause obesity. Give table scraps sparingly, if at all, especially avoiding cooked bones and foods with overly high fat content. Learn about which human foods are safe for dogs, and which are not. Check with your vet if you have any concerns about your dog’s weight or diet.
The English Toy Spaniel’s long, wavy, silky, and profuse coat should be brushed at least twice a week with a pin brush or soft bristle brush. A long-toothed metal dog comb can also come in handy for gently working through areas where tangles may be beginning to form. Left unattended, tangles and mats are uncomfortable for your dog and can cause skin problems to develop. Regular trimming around the face, feet, and other areas can keep your English Toy Spaniel looking neat. The nails should be trimmed once a month, and a bath every four to six weeks with a gentle shampoo meant for dogs will help to keep the English Toy’s coat and skin clean and healthy. Grooming sessions are a good time to check the dog all over for any new lumps or skin problems, and to check that the eyes and ears are healthy and trouble free.
English Toy Spaniels are moderately active—when outdoors exercising they are alert, playful, and energetic, while at home they are sedate and dignified. They are easygoing dogs who make excellent companions for city dwellers in small apartments who can provide the dogs with daily walks on lead. As a short-faced breed, the ETS is not tolerant of hot weather and should not be left outdoors on warm or humid days.
The “Charlie,” as the breed is sometimes known, is quiet, happy, and devoted to his owners. He is forgiving in nature and physically fastidious. Although primarily a companion to owners desiring a merry, affectionate pet, the breed has retained traits of his sporting ancestors and is said to be a fine small hunting spaniel. They are smart but can be stubborn during training; patience, consistency, and a positive, gentle approach are keys to success. Harsh methods are never appropriate for this sensitive, trusting breed. Early socialization and puppy training classes are recommended and help to ensure that the Charlie grows into a well-adjusted, well-mannered companion.
English Toy Spaniels are generally healthy dogs, but there are several health and genetic screening considerations specific to the breed, including eye conditions, cardiac disease, and luxating patellas. Dedicated breeders test their breeding stock and communicate with each other regularly to work together for breed health and preservation of the breed’s unique qualities. The English Toy Spaniel’s ears should be checked regularly for signs of infection, and the teeth should be brushed often, using a toothpaste designed for dogs. Regular visits to the vet for checkups and parasite control help to ensure the dog a long, healthy life.
Recommended Health Tests from the National Breed Club:
Read the Official Breed Club Health Statement.
The English Toy Spaniel is a compact, cobby and essentially square toy dog possessed of a short-nosed, domed head, a merry and affectionate demeanor and a silky, flowing coat. His compact, sturdy body and charming temperament, together with his rounded head, lustrous dark eye, and well cushioned face, proclaim him a dog of distinction and character. The important characteristics of the breed are exemplified by the head.
Large in comparison to size, with a plush, chubby look, albeit with a degree of refinement which prevents it from being coarse. Expression – Soft and appealing, indicating an intelligent nature. Eyes – Large and very dark brown or black, set squarely on line with the nose, with little or no white showing. The eye rims should be black. Ears – Very long and set low and close to the head, fringed with heavy feathering. Skull – High and well domed; from the side, curves as far out over the eyes as possible. Stop – Deep and well-defined.
Neck – Moderate in length; nicely arched. Topline – Level. Body – Short, compact, square and deep, on cobby lines, with a broad back. Sturdy of frame, with good rib and deep brisket.
Shoulders well laid back; legs well boned and strong, dropping straight down from the elbow; strong in pastern. Feet, front and rear, are neat and compact; fused toes are often seen and are acceptable.
Rear legs are well muscled and nicely angulated to indicate strength, and parallel of hock.
Profusely coated, heavy fringing on the ears, body, and on the chest, and with flowing feathering on both the front and hind legs, and feathering on the feet. The coat is straight or only slightly wavy, with a silken, glossy texture. Although the Blenheim and the Ruby rarely gain the length of coat and ears of the Prince Charles and King Charles, good coats and long ear fringes are a desired and prized attribute. Over-trimming of the body, feet or tail fringings should be penalized.
| Description | Standard Colors | Registration Code |
| BLACK & TAN | Check Mark For Standard Color | 018 |
| BLACK WHITE & TAN | Check Mark For Standard Color | 034 |
| RED | Check Mark For Standard Color | 140 |
| RED & WHITE | Check Mark For Standard Color | 146 |
