Cavalier King Charles Spaniel vs Miniature American Shepherd
Breed Compatibility
98% Compatible
Energy Level
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: Calm0.4
Miniature American Shepherd: Energetic0.8
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: Eager to Please1.0
Miniature American Shepherd: Eager to Please1.0
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Miniature American Shepherd: Daily Brushing0.8
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel5/5
Miniature American Shepherd5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel5/5
Miniature American Shepherd5/5
Good with Strangers
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel4/5
Miniature American Shepherd3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Mitral Valve Disease: Heart condition
Syringomyelia: Neurological disorder
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap issues
Eye Problems: Various conditions
Heart Murmurs: Cardiac concerns
Miniature American Shepherd
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
MDR1 Gene: Drug sensitivity issue
PRA: Progressive retinal atrophy
Collie Eye Anomaly: Vision defect
Epilepsy: Neurological condition
Cataracts: Vision clouding concern
Pros & Cons Comparison
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Pros
Exceptionally affectionate
Good with children
Adaptable to different living situations
Easy to train
Gentle temperament
Cons
Significant health concerns
Regular grooming required
Separation anxiety prone
Cannot be left alone long
Expensive medical care
Miniature American Shepherd
Pros
Highly intelligent and trainable
Excellent family companion
Versatile working ability
Compact size
Strong herding instincts
Cons
High exercise needs
Regular grooming required
Can be vocal
Strong herding instinct may need management
Requires consistent training
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Fun Fact
King Charles II was so devoted to these dogs that he decreed they be allowed in any public place, including Parliament!
Miniature American Shepherd Fun Fact
Despite their small size, they retain all the working abilities of their larger Australian Shepherd ancestors!
Heritage & Purpose
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Origin:
Developed in the United Kingdom during the 16th century as companion dogs for nobility, particularly favored by King Charles II. Served as lap warmers and gentle companions.
Miniature American Shepherd
Origin:
Developed in California during the 1960s as a smaller version of Australian Shepherds, these dogs were bred specifically for herding smaller livestock and companion work.
Special Considerations
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Regular heart monitoring required. Daily brushing needed to maintain coat. Cannot tolerate extreme temperatures or long periods of solitude.
Miniature American Shepherd
Needs regular grooming to maintain coat condition. Requires substantial exercise and mental stimulation. Health testing for MDR1 gene mutation recommended.