Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, with their friendly temperament and beautiful, flowing coats, make excellent companions. To maintain their royal appearance, regular grooming is necessary. Here are seven vital grooming tips for Cavalier owners.

1. Brush Regularly, Brush Well

Cavaliers have long, silky coats that can easily mat. Brush your Cavalier at least three times a week with a slicker brush or a comb to prevent tangles and keep the coat looking its best. Remember to brush gently to avoid hurting your Cavalier or damaging their coat.

2. Bathe Only When Necessary

Cavaliers do not need frequent baths. Too frequent bathing can strip their coat of natural oils and lead to dry skin. Bathe your Cavalier every 4-6 weeks, or when they get particularly dirty, using a gentle, dog-friendly shampoo.

3. Ear Care is Essential

Cavaliers have long, floppy ears that can be prone to infections. Clean their ears weekly with a vet-approved solution, checking for signs of redness, irritation, or unusual odors. Never probe too deep into the ear canal.

We like the PetMD brand of ear wipes available on Amazon.

4. Keep an Eye on Dental Health

Like any breed, Cavaliers benefit from regular dental care. Brush their teeth daily with dog-specific toothpaste. If daily brushing isn’t possible, aim for at least three times a week and supplement with dental chews.

For dogs who hate brushing, another good option are these tasty dental chews, available on Amazon. 

5. Regular Nail Trims

Cavalier’s nails should be trimmed every 3-4 weeks. Overgrown nails can cause discomfort and pose walking difficulties. Use a dog-specific nail clipper, ensuring not to cut into the quick.

This highly-rated nail grinder on Amazon makes nail trims a breeze. 

6. Inspect the Skin

Regularly check your Cavalier’s skin for signs of irritation, redness, or parasites during grooming sessions. Cavaliers can be prone to certain skin conditions, so regular checks help catch any issues early.

7. Groom the Feathers

Cavaliers have feathers on their ears, legs, tail, and belly. This hair can become matted or pick up debris. Regularly comb out the feathers and trim them if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions About Grooming Cavalier

1. How often should I groom my Cavalier King Charles Spaniel?

Cavaliers should be groomed at least once a week to keep their coat healthy, shiny, and free of tangles. Brushing more frequently, around two to three times a week, helps reduce shedding and prevents mats from forming, especially behind the ears and around the legs.

2. What type of brush is best for Cavaliers?

A slicker brush or a pin brush works best for Cavaliers. These brushes gently remove tangles, loose fur, and dirt without damaging their soft coat. A comb can also help with finer detailing behind the ears and feathered areas.

3. How do I prevent mats in my Cavalier’s coat?

Regular brushing is the key to preventing mats. Focus on feathered areas like behind the ears, legs, and tail where tangles often start. Use a detangling spray if needed and work gently with a comb to loosen knots without pulling.

4. How often should I bathe my Cavalier?

Bathing your Cavalier every four to six weeks is usually enough. Overbathing can strip natural oils from their coat, leading to dryness. Always use a gentle dog shampoo to maintain a healthy, soft, and clean coat.

5. Do Cavaliers need haircuts?

Cavaliers generally don’t need full haircuts, but trimming around the feet, sanitary areas, and ears can help keep them neat. Many owners choose a light trim to maintain their natural, elegant look without losing the breed’s signature feathering.

6. How do I clean my Cavalier’s ears?

Use a vet-approved ear cleaner and a cotton pad to gently wipe the outer part of the ear. Cavaliers are prone to ear infections due to their floppy ears, so check weekly for redness, odor, or excessive wax.

7. How often should I trim my Cavalier’s nails?

Trim your Cavalier’s nails every three to four weeks. Long nails can cause discomfort and affect their walking. If you hear their nails clicking on the floor, it’s time for a trim. A nail grinder or clipper both work well.

8. How do I keep my Cavalier’s face clean?

Wipe your Cavalier’s face daily with a damp cloth, paying special attention to tear stains under the eyes. Keeping this area clean helps prevent staining and skin irritation, especially in dogs with light-colored fur.

9. Are Cavaliers heavy shedders?

Cavaliers do shed moderately year-round. Regular brushing helps control shedding and keeps their coat looking fresh. During seasonal changes, shedding may increase, so more frequent grooming is beneficial.

10. How can I make grooming more comfortable for my Cavalier?

Start grooming early in your dog’s life to build trust. Use gentle brushes, offer treats, and keep sessions short and positive. Calm, consistent grooming helps your Cavalier associate the routine with relaxation rather than stress.

11. Should I take my Cavalier to a professional groomer?

Yes, many owners choose to visit a professional groomer every 6 to 8 weeks for a thorough clean-up. Groomers can trim feathering, clean ears, and ensure the coat stays healthy, making at-home maintenance easier between visits.

12. How do I brush my Cavalier’s tail properly?

Use a pin brush or comb and start from the tip of the tail, working your way up to the base to avoid tugging. Be gentle, as Cavaliers have silky tails that can tangle easily. A light detangling spray can help.

13. What products should I use for grooming my Cavalier?

Use a gentle dog shampoo, conditioner, detangling spray, pin or slicker brush, nail clippers or grinder, and a soft towel. Avoid harsh products with strong fragrances or chemicals that can irritate their skin.

14. How can I keep my Cavalier’s coat shiny?

A balanced diet, regular brushing, and occasional conditioning treatments keep your Cavalier’s coat shiny and soft. Brushing distributes natural oils through the coat, while quality food supports healthy skin and fur.

15. How do I make grooming a bonding experience?

Grooming should feel like quality time, not a chore. Speak gently, reward with treats, and take breaks when needed. Regular grooming builds trust and strengthens your bond, turning a routine task into a moment of love and care.

Expert Grooming Secrets for a Beautiful Cavalier

Grooming your Cavalier is more than just keeping them looking good; it’s about ensuring their overall health, comfort, and happiness. By following these seven vital tips, you’ll help prevent skin irritations, control excessive shedding, and promote a shiny, healthy coat. Regular grooming sessions also create special bonding moments between you and your gentle giant. With consistent care, your Cavalier will stay clean, confident, and content, showcasing both their strength and loving nature every single day.

iHeartDogs is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.