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After William of Orange ascended the British throne, the popularity of the King Charles Spaniel that had been the court favorite during the reign of Charles II waned, and little was heard of the breed until the mid-19th century. When it did reappear, it had been revamped to have the Oriental look, which was much in favor at the time. It was smaller, with a rounder head, snub nose and extremely long ears. It bore little resemblance to its predecessor, but when breeders tried to have their new creation classified under the name Toy Spaniel, Edward VII, himself a Spaniel fancier, objected, so in Britain the breed name remains the King Charles Spaniel. In Canada and the United States, however, it is known as the English Toy Spaniel. The breed is small and compact, weighing from 9 to 12 pounds. Its coat is long, silky, soft and wavy, and may be black and tan, red, red and white, or tricolor. These colors are given the variety names of King Charles, Ruby, Blenheim and Prince Charles, respectively. On the solid-colored dogs a white chest patch is not permissible. The coat should be brushed and combed daily, with ears and eyes examined on a regular basis and gently cleaned if necessary. The English Toy Spaniel is highly regarded as a house pet. The breed is gentle, loving, good with children and makes an ideal companion for the elderly. Exercise needs are minimal.

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