The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is one of the sweetest and most affectionate companion dogs you’ll ever meet. Small, gentle, and famously people-oriented, Cavaliers are adaptable family pets who get along wonderfully with children, seniors, and other animals. Their soft temperament and eagerness to please make them a popular choice for first-time dog owners as well as long-time dog lovers.

Like any purebred dog, however, Cavaliers have a few health concerns worth knowing about. 

Below are five of the conditions veterinarians discuss most often with Cavalier owners, along with how these issues typically appear, how they’re managed, and what you can do to help your dog stay healthy.

Mitral Valve Disease (MVD)

Mitral Valve Disease is the most well-known health condition associated with Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, and unfortunately, the most common cause of heart-related illness in the breed. MVD develops when the mitral valve in the heart begins to weaken and leak, making it harder for blood to move efficiently. Over time, this creates strain on the heart and may lead to symptoms that many owners first notice at home.

Common signs of MVD in Cavaliers include:

• a noticeable heart murmur (often detected at routine vet visits)
• coughing, especially at night or after light activity
• reduced stamina or stopping on walks
• shortness of breath
• lethargy or decreased interest in play

While there is currently no cure, veterinarians can create a medical plan to help manage symptoms and support quality of life. This typically includes heart medications to reduce fluid buildup and support heart function. 

Because MVD has a strong genetic component, choosing a reputable breeder who performs heart screenings on parent dogs is the best way to reduce risk in puppies.

Obesity

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are enthusiastic eaters, often combining a big appetite with a small frame, making them more prone to unhealthy weight gain. Obesity is more than a cosmetic issue. It can worsen several conditions that already affect Cavaliers, including hip dysplasia, heart disease, and joint pain.

Owners may notice:

• difficulty feeling ribs under a layer of fat
• slower movement or reduced energy
• reluctance to exercise
• begging or “food stealing” behavior

A healthy weight plays a major role in long-term health for Cavaliers. Vets often recommend portion-controlled diets, regular daily exercise, and avoiding high-calorie treats. 

Ear Issues

The Cavalier’s long, floppy ears contribute to their cute look, but they also create a warm, moist environment where yeast, bacteria, and allergens thrive. As a result, Cavaliers are more likely to develop ear infections, ear inflammation, and ear-related allergies.

Common signs include:

• head shaking or scratching at the ears
• strong odor or discharge
• redness or swelling inside the ear canal
• sensitivity when touched
• rubbing the face or ears on the ground

Ear problems often flare after swimming, bathing, or exposure to environmental allergens such as pollen. Veterinarians typically manage these issues with medicated ear cleaners, ear drops, or short-term anti-inflammatory medications.

To help prevent infections, gently clean your Cavalier’s ears regularly, keep them dry after water exposure, and check frequently for buildup or redness.

Hip Dysplasia

Hip dysplasia occurs when the hip joint develops abnormally, preventing the ball and socket from fitting together smoothly. This misalignment creates friction and inflammation in the joint, which may progress into canine osteoarthritis over time.

Cavaliers with hip dysplasia may show:

• difficulty rising or getting comfortable
• stiffness after naps or long walks
• reluctance to jump onto furniture
• limping or favoring one leg
• decreased interest in play

While genetic factors have the strongest influence, obesity and overexertion can make symptoms worse. Veterinarians may recommend joint supplements, controlled exercise, anti-inflammatory medications, or physical therapy. In more advanced cases, surgery may be the best option to restore comfort and stability.

Maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding intense jumping during puppyhood can help protect developing joints.

Atopic Dermatitis (Environmental Allergies)

Canine atopic dermatitis (CAD) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition caused by an overactive immune response to everyday allergens such as pollen, dust mites, mold spores, or certain grasses. Cavaliers, like many small, long-haired breeds, can be especially prone to itchy, irritated skin and recurring skin infections because allergens can easily become trapped in their soft, feathered coats.

Most dogs with atopic dermatitis begin showing signs between 1 and 5 years old, and symptoms may appear seasonally at first before becoming year-round.

Common signs of atopic dermatitis in Cavalier King Charles Spaniels include:

• persistent itching, licking, or chewing
• redness on the belly, paws, or face
• frequent ear infections (often linked to allergies)
• hair loss or thinning fur
• inflamed, flaky, or thickened skin
• licking the paws after outdoor activities

Because many skin conditions look similar, veterinarians typically perform a full skin exam, check for parasites, and may run tests to rule out bacterial or yeast infections. Treatment is customized based on the dog’s symptoms and may include allergy-targeted medications, medicated shampoos, anti-itch therapies, ear treatments, or a dietary trial if food allergies are suspected.

While atopic dermatitis cannot be cured, many Cavaliers improve dramatically with consistent management, regular grooming, and seasonal allergy support. 

Preventive habits such as wiping paws and bellies after walks, keeping bedding clean, bathing with a gentle, vet-recommended shampoo, and using an air purifier indoors can help reduce allergen exposure and minimize flare-ups.

If allergies become chronic or difficult to manage, your veterinarian may recommend exploring long-term allergy treatments or combination approaches that help keep symptoms under control.

Regenerative Medicine for Dogs

If your Cavalier has been diagnosed with joint issues or chronic skin allergies, regenerative medicine is an area worth learning about. 

At Gallant, we’re actively conducting FDA-authorized clinical studies evaluating uterine-derived mesenchymal stromal (stem) cells and their potential to support dogs living with conditions like osteoarthritis and atopic dermatitis. These investigational therapies are designed to explore whether stem cells can help modulate inflammation, support tissue health, and improve comfort in dogs with chronic inflammatory or degenerative diseases.

All Gallant stem cell products used in studies are manufactured in a cGMP-compliant facility and undergo extensive quality testing before use. While this research is still ongoing, many pet parents appreciate having the opportunity to learn about emerging science and, when appropriate, participate in clinical studies that contribute to the future of veterinary medicine.

If you’re curious about how stem cell therapy is being studied, or wondering whether your dog might qualify for an investigational study, you can explore the current trials available through Gallant. Participating in research not only helps your own dog access new avenues of care under veterinary supervision but also helps advance knowledge that may benefit countless pets. 

Regenerative medicine that goes deeper

See how Gallant is shaping the future of veterinary care with stem cell therapies. Learn more and find out how your pet may be part of our ongoing studies.

Explore Clinical Trials