Our Health Philosophy

As a health-conscious breeder, KilbridesPride uses a preventative approach to the potential health concerns for Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. We adhere to the recommended breeding practices and screening guidelines of the American Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Club (ACKCSC), the Cavalier parent club of the American Kennel Club (AKC).

In spite of the ability to test for potential health concerns, genetics is not predictable. As Cavaliers age, they are subject to health concerns similar to those of humans. If you notice any sudden change in the behavior of your Cavalier, please take note!  Bring your concerns to the attention of your veterinarian.

Abnormal heart conditions afflict all dog breeds, but Cavalier King Charles Spaniels (CKCS) are historically particularly prone to Mitral Valve Disease (MVD), a degenerative  valve disease of the heart. MVD may eventually lead to congestive heart failure and is considered a common cause of death in Cavaliers.

Annually, beginning at one year of age, our Cavaliers are screened for heart murmurs by a veterinary cardiac specialist.

As a breed, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels (CKCS) can exhibit “juvenile cataracts” and keratoconjunctivitis sicca a treatable condition known as “dry eye”. Any “clouding” or opacity in the pupil of the eye or any irritation of the eye may warrant medication and treatment. 

At KilbridesPride, our proactive approach to optimal eye health includes eye examinations by a board-certified veterinary ophthalmologist with prompt attention and treatment for any noted eye concerns.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels (CKCS) and other toy breeds have been reported to suffer from the neurological disorder, syringomyelia, a disorder in which a fluid-filled cyst (syrinx) forms within the spinal cord. The syrinx can get large enough to damage the spinal cord and compress and injure the nerve fibers that carry information to and from the brain and body. Symptoms of syringomyelia include signs of sensitivity in the area of the head, neck, or shoulders. 

Our proactive approach at Kilbride Pride includes an MRI screening by the age of two years to check for evidence of syringomyelia.

Hip dysplasia (HD) is an orthopedic problem that can affect Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and other dog breeds. Radiographs and veterinary examinations are used to diagnose this condition. 

Cavaliers can present with a defect of the femur and knee, a condition known as luxating patellae. This condition typically presents itself when a puppy is 4 to 6 months of age. Physical therapy can resolve most problems but in more severe cases a surgical correction may be needed.

Our proactive approach to Hip and Patellae Health at KilbridesPride includes hip radiographs and patella examinations by a veterinary specialist.