JUDGING THE CAVALIER KING CHARLES SPANIEL
While he may exhibit some traits that acknowledge his roots, he was never intended to be anything but a lap dog and companion. Tail carriage is sometimes a stick- ing point for judges. Ideal carriage should not be much above the level of the back, with carriage between 2 and 4 o’clock being acceptable. But remember, males will sometimes pos- ture in the ring and raise the tail. As judges, it is up to us to decide what to do about that. Personally, I would forgive a tail that I deem to be a bit excitable, rather than put up a poorer conformation specimen. Remember, any one of us can see a truly gay tail in the air (it doesn’t take rocket sci- ence), but sometimes I think the easy criticism takes undue precedence when we reward, instead, a dog with straight shoulders or sickle hocks. Bites in the Cavalier sometimes give both judges and breeders abso- lute fits! Our Standard says that “A perfect, regular and complete scissors bite is preferred…” If we are lucky breeders, our hopeful puppy has a scissors bite from birth and never changes. But this breed is notorious for having its occlusion alter over many months and even years. That promising puppy may go from scis- sors to undershot and back to scissors again—I know of one that “came right” at the age of five! Of course, as judges we can only judge on the day, but many judges do tend to give the benefit of the doubt to Cavaliers who are still in the Puppy Classes and have a slightly undershot bite. It’s up to you. Overshot bites are rarely shown and I have never known one to improve. Please do not expect the Cavalier to stand at riveted attention in the ring—or at least not for very long. The Cavalier nature is to fidget and dance about, and this should not be held against him. At the same time, he should be shown on a loose lead and not hard-stacked in the ring. Handlers may get their attention with bait or toys, but bending or kneeling down to re-set a leg on the floor or the grass is not an acceptable way to show this breed. Meticulous stacking is reserved for the table exam.
Just as we want their true, happy nature to shine through with a wag or a dance, we also demand that they not be trimmed. No sculpt- ing, no thinning, no trimming! “Specimens where coat has been altered by trimming, clipping, or by artificial means shall be so severe- ly penalized as to be effectively eliminated from competition.” Judges, please heed this and have the fortitude not to reward the trimmed dog, even if he is the best one before you. Or else, what are Standards for? The Cavalier may not be an easy breed to judge, but he is such a merry, happy dog that most judges enjoy their Cavalier assignments. Just remember to catch and tame that genie in the bottle! For further information on the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, or a list of breeders, visit: ACKCSC.org .
308 | SHOWSIGHT MAGAZINE, DECEMBER 2021
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