Breed History
While the dogs early history is uncertain, it is believed the English Toy Spaniel is a product of breeding between Japanese Toy breeds and European spaniels....
The dogs early lineage is identical to that of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, and both dogs became popular as lapdogs among Europes aristocracy during the 17th century. English Toy Spaniels were the favorite of Englands King Charles II, from whom the breed gets its nickname, the King Charles Spaniel. Charles affection for the dog boosted its popularity tremendously, causing it to become one of the most highly esteemed breeds in Britain at the time. Over the centuries, the English Toy Spaniel was bred to accentuate its petite size, round head and flat nose. The breed was introduced to the United States during the 19th century and recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1886. While the dog has never been as popular in America as in its native England, the English Toy Spaniel continues to provide the companionship that has made it so cherished for so long.