Do Cavalier King Charles Spaniels Make Good Therapy Dogs? |Temperament and Training Tips for a Therapy Dog (Early access for our Patreon community) ~

Are Cavalier King Charles Spaniels Good for Therapy Dog Work?

Is a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel a Good Therapy Dog? — What makes a good therapy dog team?

Today, I want to chat about a topic that is close to my heart: therapy dogs! Have you ever wondered if your Cavalier King Charles Spaniel would make a good therapy dog? It’s a common question and one that has a few caveats. First, it’s not all about the dog! I know, I know, it’s always all about Dexter, but with visiting therapy dogs, it’s about teamwork.

But what is a visiting therapy dog team, and what do they do? A therapy pet team is a person and their pet (sometimes cats, bunnies, etc.) who share their companionship and comfort with those in need, visiting places like hospitals, schools, and nursing homes. These teams engage in either Animal-Assisted Activities (AAA) or Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT). AAA therapy dog teams engage in sessions without the presence of a medical professional or specific treatment goals, aiming simply to bring joy and comfort. Whereas AAT therapy dog teams work with healthcare providers in goal-oriented sessions aimed at addressing specific issues, with progress carefully measured and tracked throughout the process.

Being a good therapy dog team isn’t just about your Cavalier; it’s also about you. Both you and your CKCS are visiting as a team. You both must have the skills and knowledge required to visit people in a wide range of settings.

Let’s discuss what humans should be bringing to a Cavalier therapy dog team. As a therapy dog handler, it’s important to be comfortable when interacting with both people and your dog. You’ll need to be able to guide your Cavalier through different situations, encouraging them and keeping them safe and happy. Understanding your dog is key to becoming a therapy dog handler. You’ve got to be able to recognize the tiniest changes in behavior and body language, and quickly respond. And at the same time, you will be multitasking by staying engaged with individuals. It’s a balancing act, for sure, especially as you start out your journey as a therapy dog team.

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Now, what personality should your Cavalier King Charles Spaniel have in order to make a good therapy dog? When it comes to a well-suited therapy dog, you can look at a few key traits. A good therapy dog should be reliable, predictable, and able to follow your cues with ease. That’s not to say they have to be robots and never get flustered, but as a general rule, you want a dog that is solid in their temperament. Your dog should be friendly with strangers, as your visits will be with strangers. At the same time, they should be poised, not jump on people, and be able to walk nicely on a leash around distractions, including food. It’s not just about loving new people; it’s also about having manners in new and unfamiliar environments.

Getting Started Training Your Cavalier to Become a Visiting Therapy Dog

It’s important that your Cavalier have basic obedience and manners. Walking on a loose leash in crowded places, around dogs, and on slick floors is a must. Leaving food or dropped pills on the ground is incredibly important for your dog’s safety. If your Cavalier knows tricks, that can be a great icebreaker and is also helpful when someone wants to look at your dog but not pet them. Dexter and I were a visiting therapy dog team for many years, and tricks and activities were by far his favorite visits! If your dog needs a refresher, enroll in a positive dog training class.

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After your Cavalier has mastered his basic obedience skills in a variety of environments, look for a therapy dog training prep class. This may be a weekend class or one that spans 4–8 weeks. When I taught my therapy dog prep class, each week we covered a new topic to prepare the handlers and dogs for the actual work involved and the test. My students by far enjoyed skit night, where my volunteers and I role-played different scenarios, the teams interacted, and we discussed what was good and how they could improve in that situation. It was a hoot and very eye-opening for the upcoming teams.

When you and your Cavalier are ready to take your therapy dog evaluation, you will need to find an evaluator to assess whether you are ready for therapy work. But there is more than one therapy dog organization out there. Choosing the right organization is crucial. Some facilities have specific requirements, like only accepting teams evaluated by certain organizations. So, if you have your sights set on a specific organization, reach out to them first. If your dog is on a raw food diet or you provide your dog with titers vs. yearly vaccinations, not all therapy dog organizations accept that, but some do.

Speaking of organizations, there are plenty out there, each with its own unique criteria. Some of the most common ones include Alliance of Therapy Dogs, Pet Partners, Love on a Leash, and Therapy Dogs International. Be sure to check out their specific requirements before making your decision.

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During the evaluation, the evaluator will test your skills to ensure you’re ready to handle various situations with confidence. Once you’ve got the green light from your evaluator, send in your paperwork and fees. While you are waiting for your official badge, it’s a good time to start reaching out to facilities you’re interested in visiting. It’s best to meet with the director, take a tour, and get a feel for the environment without your dog. When you are ready to visit with your Cavalier, keep those initial visits short and sweet. It’s all about easing them into the new surroundings and ensuring they feel comfortable and confident in their role as a therapy dog.

And remember, if you don’t think therapy work is in the cards for your Cavalier, that’s perfectly fine. There are plenty of other enjoyable activities you and your Cavalier can explore together. But if therapy work is the journey you’ve chosen, then I wish you both the best of luck on this rewarding adventure.

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Mitral Valve Disease (MVD) in the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Heart Disease Mitral Valve Disease (MVD) is something every Cavalier King Charles Spaniel parent should be familiar with. Sadly, this condition is extremely common in the Cavalier breed, but early awareness and proper management can greatly improve a Cavalier’s quality of life. In this blog, we’ll cover what MVD is, why Cavaliers are at risk, how the disease is staged, and which supplements can help support a healthy heart. A heartfelt thank you to Lisa Davila, BS in Biomedical Science and Hospital Manager at Aggieland Animal Health Center in College Station, Texas, for helping me put together this article. Lisa has not only dedicated her career to animal health but has also been a loving mom to many Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. Her knowledge and experience are truly invaluable! Disclosure: Some links in this post are affiliate links. If you purchase through my link, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only share products I genuinely use and recommend for my dogs and the families I work with. Understanding Mitral Valve Disease (MVD) in Cavaliers Mitral Valve Disease (MVD) is a degenerative condition that affects the mitral valve of the heart. The mitral valve is responsible for ensuring blood flows properly between the left atrium and left ventricle. Over time, this valve can weaken and leak, allowing blood to flow backward into the atrium. This puts additional strain on the heart, eventually leading to heart enlargement and, in later stages, congestive heart failure (CHF). MVD is considered a slow-progressing disease, but it varies from dog to dog. Some Cavaliers may live for years with a mild heart murmur, while others may progress more rapidly. Since MVD is so common in the breed, Cavaliers should be closely examined (cardiac auscultation) annually, to determine if they have a murmur. The presence of a murmur is often the first sign that a dog has degenerative valve disease. Why Are Cavaliers at Risk of MVD? Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are unfortunately predisposed to MVD. While any breed can develop valve disease, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are at the greatest risk for developing degenerative mitral valve disease. Studies have shown that over 50% of Cavaliers develop a heart murmur by the age of 5, and by age 10, that number jumps to nearly 100%.Because MVD has a strong genetic component in Cavaliers, responsible breeding practices are essential. Responsible Cavalier King Charles Spaniel breeders ensure their breeding dogs undergo echocardiograms conducted by board-certified cardiologists. When considering a puppy, both parents should have cardiologist-issued heart clearances and be at least 2.5 years old at the time of breeding. Additionally, all four grandparents should be over the age of 5 and heart-clear. However, even with careful breeding, the risk remains high in the breed. The Stages of MVD MVD is typically classified into different stages based on its progression. Early detection and monitoring are crucial to managing the disease effectively. Stage A – Dogs at risk for MVD but without any current signs (e.g., all Cavaliers are considered Stage A at birth because of their predisposition). Stage B1 – A veterinarian detects a heart murmur, but there is no evidence of heart enlargement on X-rays or echocardiograms. Stage B2 – A heart murmur is present, and imaging confirms heart enlargement. At this stage, medication such as Vetmedin (pimobendan) is often started to help delay the onset of congestive heart failure. Stage C – Congestive heart failure (CHF) is present, meaning the heart can no longer compensate for the disease. Symptoms such as coughing, lethargy, and difficulty breathing may be noticeable. Medications are necessary to help manage the condition. Stage D – End-stage CHF, where symptoms become harder to control even with medications. Once a dog reaches Stage B2, most cardiologists recommend starting treatment to slow disease progression. Regular checkups and echocardiograms help ensure the right treatment plan is in place. The Truth About Grain-Free Diets and Heart Disease in Cavaliers With all the discussion surrounding Mitral Valve Disease (MVD) in Cavaliers, you may have come across concerns about grain-free diets and their potential link to heart disease. It’s important to separate the headlines from the facts when it comes to feeding our Cavaliers the best diet for heart health. The debate about grain-free dog food largely stems from concerns about dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), a condition where the heart muscle weakens, leading to poor function and potential heart failure. While DCM is a serious disease, the concern over grain-free diets has often been misinterpreted. The issue isn’t necessarily the lack of grains but rather the high levels of starchy carbohydrates like peas, lentils, legumes, and potatoes that are often used as substitutes in processed grain-free kibble. Cavaliers are already predisposed to MVD, not DCM, which is a different heart condition with different causes. However, diet still plays a critical role in supporting heart health. The best way to provide a heart-healthy diet for your Cavalier is to focus on fresh, whole foods rich in high-quality animal proteins rather than relying on highly processed kibble, whether it contains grains or not. Read more about feeding your Cavalier a fresh diet. Dr. Karen Becker explains it best: “The problem with grain-free formulas isn’t the lack of grains. At a minimum, it’s the high level of starchy carbohydrates coupled with the extreme high-heat processing methods used to produce these diets.” Rather than worrying about whether a diet is labeled as “grain-free,” focus on feeding a fresh, balanced diet with high-quality proteins, healthy fats, and low-glycemic vegetables. Rotating proteins and using whole-food ingredients can help ensure your Cavalier gets the nutrients they need to support a healthy heart. If you’re unsure about your dog’s diet, seek guidance from a veterinarian with a strong background in canine nutrition, not just one who sells prescription diets in the clinic. A certified veterinary food therapist (CVFT) can be a great resource when designing a diet that supports heart health while avoiding unnecessary fillers. A well-balanced, species-appropriate diet can play a key role in keeping your Cavalier’s heart strong and healthy for years to come. Heart-Healthy Supplements for Cavaliers with MVD While MVD cannot be cured, a combination of medications, lifestyle management, and supplements can help support heart function and overall well-being. Below are some key supplements that may benefit Cavaliers with or at risk for MVD: MCT Oil (Medium-Chain Triglycerides) – Provides an alternative energy source for the heart muscle. One recommended brand is Natural Force Organic MCT Oil (1 tsp daily with food). Before giving your Cavalier coconut oil, please read this article on MCAD in the Cavalier. Amino Acids (Lysine, Methionine, L-Carnitine, Taurine) – Help maintain heart muscle contractility and serve as antioxidants. Omega-3 Fatty Acids – Reduce inflammation, decrease clot risk, help prevent heart muscle loss, and support healthy blood pressure. Nordic Naturals Omega Pet Liquid is a high-quality option. Vitamin E – Acts as both an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. Magnesium – Plays a crucial role in heart muscle contraction and maintaining a healthy heart rhythm. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) – A powerful antioxidant that supports heart function. Life Extension 100 mg capsules are a great choice. Recommended Supplement Blends If you prefer a multi-ingredient supplement, these options are formulated specifically for heart health: Rx Vitamins for Pets Formula CV – Includes amino acids, magnesium, Vitamin E, CoQ10, and hawthorn berry extract (safe unless the dog is on Vetmedin). VetriScience Cardio Strength Capsules – Similar to the Rx Vitamins formula but without hawthorn berry extract, making it safe for all MVD stages and medications. Recap & Common Questions About MVD in Cavaliers Mitral Valve Disease (MVD) is a serious but manageable heart condition that affects many Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. Early detection, responsible breeding, proper veterinary care, and supportive supplements can all play a role in keeping your Cavalier’s heart as healthy as possible. What are the early signs of MVD in Cavaliers? The first noticeable symptom is often a heart murmur, detected during a cardiologist visit. As the disease progresses, signs can include coughing, fatigue, labored breathing, and reduced exercise tolerance. I built the Chiari malformation and MVD Health Tracker Web App specifically for Cavalier parents tracking MVD and Chiari malformation. It includes a 60 second resting respiratory rate counter (the number your cardiologist watches most closely for MVD) and a 15 second heart rate counter that does the beats per minute math for you. Log coughs, exercise tolerance, and medications all in one place. Before every vet appointment, export a clean, vet ready report as a PDF or Excel file, or have the app email it straight to your vet. Free 7 day trial, no credit card needed to look around. Take a look! How long can a Cavalier live with mitral valve disease? Many Cavaliers live for years after an MVD diagnosis, especially with early detection and proper management. While every dog is different, with the right veterinary care, medications, and supplements, Cavaliers can still enjoy a good quality of life. What are the final stages of MVD in dogs? In the later stages, MVD leads to congestive heart failure (CHF). Symptoms include severe coughing, difficulty breathing, lethargy, fainting, and fluid buildup in the lungs or abdomen. At this stage, medication and veterinary support are essential for comfort. How do you treat MVD in Cavaliers? Treatment typically includes veterinary-prescribed medications to support heart function and manage symptoms. Additionally, heart-healthy supplements, such as taurine, CoQ10, and omega-3 fatty acids, can provide extra support. Feeding a fresh, species-appropriate diet may also contribute to overall heart health. Final Thoughts A heart-healthy fresh diet, proper weight management, and the right combination of supplements can help support your Cavalier’s heart at any stage of MVD, even before a murmur is detected. Early intervention and regular veterinary care are key to helping our beloved Cavaliers live longer, healthier lives. A big thank you to Lisa for sharing her knowledge on this topic! If you have any questions, feel free to ask, and don’t forget to check out Lisa and Jiminy on Instagram! Join our Cavalier-loving community! Get weekly tips, natural care advice sent straight to your inbox. Have a Cavalier at home? Come join our friendly Facebook group for training tips, natural care, and lots of Cavalier fun! Tonya WilhelmHi, I’m Tonya Wilhelm—a positive dog trainer, holistic pet care educator, and proud Cavalier King Charles Spaniel mom. With nearly 30 years of experience helping families raise confident, well-mannered dogs, I focus on trust-based training, enrichment, and natural wellness. I’m also a published author and content creator who shares proactive, effective ways to support your Cavalier’s behavior, health, and daily life. You’ll often hear about Stewart, my sweet Cavalier, and my angel Dexter, who continue to inspire everything I create. www.cavaliergifts.com [...]Read more...

Best Dog Food for a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: A Guide to Fresh and Natural Food Options

Tips for choosing the best food for your Cavalier. Dexter’s Food Journey with Raw and Homemade Food What’s the best dog food for a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel? That was my question when I first brought Dexter home. Dexter, my Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, was a raw-fed puppy. However, because I wasn’t sure how to do it properly, and I was unaware that there were premade raw foods on the market, I fed him kibble with food toppers. After learning how to balance a fresh dog food diet, I began preparing homemade food for my Cavalier King Charles Spaniel when he was about two years old. Then, when he was about four, I transitioned him to a DIY raw diet. Through this journey with Dexter, I’ve learned about creating a nutritious and tailored diet that meets his unique needs. Now, I’m excited to pass along my tips and thoughts on feeding your Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. Let’s dive in! Natural diet for Cavalier King Charles Spaniels If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for the best pet products, natural dog grooming supplies, and the healthiest dog food brands for your Cavalier. One of the most important aspects of your Cavalier’s well-being is your Cavalier King Charles Spaniel’s diet. Dogs are natural carnivores, made to thrive on a diet of fresh meat. This means a species-appropriate diet is key to their health and vitality. Understanding Species-Appropriate Nutrition Let’s think about our dogs’ ancestors for a moment. They thrived on a diet of raw meat, bones, and organs. Today, we can recreate this natural diet with a raw food approach, using fresh, high-quality ingredients that focus on what dogs are meant to eat. For your Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, in a nutshell, this means focusing on a diet that’s about 90 percent meat, bone, and organ, with the remaining 10 percent coming from fruits and vegetables. This balance provides the essential nutrients and fiber they need to stay healthy. Personally, I feel if you aren’t able to go raw, this diet can also be cooked. You just would need to provide the calcium from the bones in another form, since dogs cannot eat cooked bones. Don’t forget to subscribe to @CavalierTipsandFun for more! Best Dry Dog Food for a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Now, dry kibble. It’s processed at high temperatures, which takes away almost all the moisture and nutrients from the ingredients. Often, kibble is made with low-quality ingredients and fillers that don’t give your dog the nutrients they need. The lack of moisture in kibble can also lead to chronic dehydration, affecting everything from kidney function to skin and coat health. Plus, since kibble is made to last a long time, the ingredients can go rancid quicker than you might think, making it even less nutritious for your pup. So, what is best dry dog food for Cavalier King Charles Spaniel? The honest answer is that it depends on your dog’s individual needs, sensitivities, and health. There isn’t a one-size-fits-all kibble. The key is learning how to read the label, spot red flags like fillers or unnamed meat meals, and choose the most nutrient-dense option you can find. The Importance of Moisture in Your Dog’s Diet Moisture is a crucial part of your dog’s diet. In the wild, dogs get most of their hydration from the food they eat. Fresh, raw diets naturally provide the moisture that kibble just can’t. This is essential for your dog’s digestion, kidney health, and overall well-being. By feeding them fresh, high-quality meat and vegetables, you’re making sure they stay hydrated naturally, without having to depend solely on drinking water. Finding the Best Diet for Your Cavalier King Charles Spaniel When it comes to our Cavaliers, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Every dog is unique, with their own health needs, behaviors, and lifestyle. Personally, I’m a big advocate for variety. This could be in the form of different proteins, suppliers or even a nice pre-made raw or mix. I steer clear of dry pet food altogether unless I’m using freeze dried food for dog training treats. For me, a balanced DIY raw diet for Dexter is the way to go. It’s fresh, it’s healthy, and I can tailor and tweak it to Dexter’s needs. Why a Raw Food Diet is Ideal for Most Cavalier King Charles Spaniels A raw food diet is as close to a natural diet as you can get for your Cavalier. It includes raw meat, bones, and organs, providing essential vitamins and minerals often lost in commercial dog foods. This diet can improve your Cavalier’s skin and coat health, immune system, and help maintain a healthy weight. As I mentioned earlier, I think adding an approximately 10 percent mix of fruits and vegetables is a great way to add a nutritional boost to the bowl. By avoiding the fillers and artificial additives found in many commercial foods, we ensure our dogs get the best nutrition possible. Homemade Raw or Cooked Food: Personalized Nutrition for Your Cavalier One of the best ways to ensure your Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is eating the healthiest diet is to make their food at home. This way, you control the quality of the ingredients and can tailor the meals to your dog’s specific needs. Homemade meals are especially beneficial if your Cavalier is a picky eater or has food allergies. Just remember to balance their diet properly to include all necessary nutrients. Whether your dog has allergies, digestion issues, or any other specific needs, you can tweak their diet to meet their needs. Feeding Your Cavalier a Grain-Free Diet You might have heard that grain-free foods are bad for Cavaliers because they were thought to have caused Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM). In 2019, the FDA released a list of grain-free pet foods that had people swearing that grain-free dog food was bad. But, guess what? It’s really not the case. In fact, in 2022 the FDA announced on their website there wasn’t a solid link between grain-free diets and DCM. Feeding your dog grain-free can actually be a good choice for your Cavalier. But things get tricky if you are looking at a purchased grain-free alternative, particularly a dry kibble. When you’re reading the ingredient panel of a dog food (yes, read those labels), watch out for ones loaded with peas, lentils, legumes, seeds, and/or potatoes. Even if the front of the bag screams “meat-first,” it might sneak in a bunch of carbs and starches that aren’t ideal. According to experts, such as Dr. Karen Becker, it’s not about cutting out grains—it’s about making sure our pets aren’t eating too many starchy fillers. So, bottom line? Go back to that 90 percent meat recommendation. Best Dog Food for Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Puppies When it comes to finding the best dog food for Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Puppies, it’s essential to consider their unique nutritional needs as they grow. If you’re not quite sure about the specifics of puppy nutrition, it’s perfectly okay to rely on trusted commercial brands known for their expertise in creating a balanced diet for puppies. A commercial raw puppy food will include the essential proteins, fats, and calcium your puppy needs to develop strong bones. The key is to ensure whatever you choose is well-rounded and provides all the nutrients your Cavalier puppy requires during the puppy life stage. Finding the best puppy food for your Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is really going to boil down to what you feel comfortable with providing. Some healthy raw and freeze dried puppy food brands include: Raw Paws, Viva Raw, BJ’s Raw, Primal Pet Foods, Open Farm, Stella & Chewy’s, Instinct Maintaining a Healthy Weight Keeping your Cavalier at his ideal weight is super important. Maintaining a healthy weight isn’t just about good looks, but their health. Extra weight can contribute to health issues like joint problems and heart disease. The breed standard says they should weigh between thirteen and eighteen pounds. But, Cavaliers can vary a lot in size. Take Dexter, for instance. He’s a bit of a big guy, weighing his ideal weight at a healthy twenty-nine pounds. So, how do you know if your Cavalier is at the right weight? It’s all about getting your hands on your dog. Run your fingers lightly over their ribcage; you should be able to feel their ribs without pressing too hard. If they’re too prominent, they might be on the thin side. But if you can’t feel them at all, or if their waistline has disappeared, they might be carrying a few extra pounds. Just keep an eye on their overall body shape, and remember, every Cavalier is unique! Check out the blog on helping your Cavalier safely lose weight here. How Often to Feed Your Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Consistency is key when it comes to feeding your Cavalier. Establishing a regular feeding schedule helps regulate their metabolism and digestion. Typically, feeding your Cavalier twice a day, in the morning and evening, works well. For puppies, more frequent meals might be necessary to meet their higher energy demands. I actually feed Dexter three times a day, mainly due to the fact that he gets so much food, I prefer to space it out. Adding Supplements and Vitamins Even with a well-balanced diet, supplements can play an essential role in your Cavalier’s health. Omega-3 fatty acids can enhance skin and coat health, probiotics can aid digestion, and joint supplements can support mobility. Always consult your Cavalier’s vet before adding new supplements to ensure they’re necessary and safe. When possible, opt for real food supplements vs. synthetic. Food Allergies in Cavalier King Charles Spaniels If your Cavalier has allergies, a limited-ingredient fresh diet can be incredibly beneficial. Before jumping brands, I would suggest going through a pet food elimination diet to identify triggers. Once you know what your Cavalier is allergic to, you can create a personalized diet just for him. You can read more about how and why a pet food elimination diet is helpful on my other blog, right here. Safe Fruits and Vegetables to Feed Your Cavalier Things like carrots, broccoli, and kale can be great sources of extra nutrients and fiber. And don’t forget the powerhouse of antioxidants fruits like blueberries, strawberries, pomegranates, and apples can provide. For best digestion, blitz them up! Introduce all new foods slowly and keep an eye on what works for your dog. Transitioning to a Raw Food Diet Transitioning your Cavalier to a raw food diet should be done gradually to avoid digestive upsets. Start by introducing small amounts of raw food while slowly decreasing their current food. A 75 percent and 25 percent switch usually works well. Over a week or two, increase the raw portion until it completely replaces their old diet. Choosing the Best Raw Food Brands Selecting high-quality raw food brands for your Cavalier ensures they get balanced and nutritious meals. Personally, I look for brands that offer meats that are antibiotic and hormone free. Ideally, any fruits and vegetables will be organic. Opt for whole foods vs synthetics when possible. But, it will be a balancing act based on what’s available to you and your budget. As I mentioned earlier, shoot for approximately 90 percent meat, bone, and organ. A few raw brand choices to consider that either have frozen raw and/or freeze dried include BJ’s Raw, Raw Paws Pet Food, Raw Wild, We Feed Raw, Viva Raw, Primal, Vital Essentials, Smallbatch, Raw Bistro and Steve’s Real Food. A Healthy Diet Can Improve the Immune System, Skin, and Coat Health By providing your Cavalier with a balanced raw or homemade diet you’re not just filling their bowl, you’re nurturing their well-being from the inside out. Fresh diets, whether raw or homemade, are rich in unprocessed ingredients, offering a higher concentration of vital nutrients compared to heavily processed kibble. Fresh foods do not have the fillers and additives found in kibble, making them easier for dogs to digest and absorb. Because of this, fresh food promotes better immune function, healthier skin, and a shinier coat, making them the ideal choice for your Cavalier. By focusing on a fresh, natural diet tailored to your Cavalier King Charles Spaniel’s specific needs, you’re setting them up for a long, healthy, and happy life. Remember, my goal is to offer guidance and support to help you navigate the journey of pet nutrition, without any judgment. Let’s work together to ensure the best possible care for you and your Cavalier! If you enjoy learning, connecting, and getting ongoing training and care support, you’re welcome to join our Patreon community. Inside, you’ll find behind-the-scenes tips, bonus training guidance, wellness advice, and a kind, encouraging group of dog parents who truly understand. It’s a wonderful way to keep learning and feel supported year-round. Join us today! ? Join our Cavalier-loving community! Get weekly tips, natural care advice sent straight to your inbox. ?Have a Cavalier at home? Come join our friendly Facebook group for training tips, natural care, and lots of Cavalier fun! Tonya WilhelmHi, I’m Tonya Wilhelm—a positive dog trainer, holistic pet care educator, and proud Cavalier King Charles Spaniel mom. With nearly 30 years of experience helping families raise confident, well-mannered dogs, I focus on trust-based training, enrichment, and natural wellness. I’m also a published author and content creator who shares proactive, effective ways to support your Cavalier’s behavior, health, and daily life. You’ll often hear about Stewart, my sweet Cavalier, and my angel Dexter, who continue to inspire everything I create. cavaliergifts.com [...]Read more...

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Tonya Wilhelm

Hi, I’m Tonya Wilhelm—a positive dog trainer, holistic pet care educator, and proud Cavalier King Charles Spaniel mom. With nearly 30 years of experience helping families raise confident, well-mannered dogs, I focus on trust-based training, enrichment, and natural wellness. I’m also a published author and content creator who shares proactive, effective ways to support your Cavalier’s behavior, health, and daily life. You’ll often hear about Stewart, my sweet Cavalier, and my angel Dexter, who continue to inspire everything I create.

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Do Cavalier King Charles Spaniels Make Good Therapy Dogs? |Temperament and Training Tips for a Therapy Dog (Early access for our Patreon community)

Are Cavalier King Charles Spaniels Good for Therapy Dog Work?

Getting Started Training Your Cavalier to Become a Visiting Therapy Dog

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