This variety is perhaps the oldest and best known of the Toy Spaniels. We first hear definitely of it in the Court of King Charles, probably about 1630, before which the different breeds were only known as Spaniels; to this monarch the "King Charles" is indebted for his royal title. At the time of Charles II. the King Charles (Fig. 120) may be said to have reached its zenith of popularity; it was the pampered favourite of the King, and the position it held in Court, to which we have referred, allowed it ready access on all occasions.

Besides being the oldest, the Royal Spaniel has, through the different periods of pet-dog history, always had its votaries, and though the Toy Spaniels are perhaps as plentiful and popular as they ever were, it is not to be replaced by any others at the present day. Possibly the colour of the King Charles rather than its antecedents makes it a favourite; it is certainly less trouble than the lighter varieties, whose coats require more frequent washing and attention.

Fig. 120. - King Charles Spaniel.

There is evidence to show that the King Charles was frequently black-and-white as well as black-and-tan, but, like other Spaniels, with a long nose and very long ears. Through the crossing of the two doubtless the Tricolour has been produced, and other characteristics changed, notably the loss in length of ear and nose. It is also believed by some that the bold shape of the present Spaniel has been assisted by a cross with our more homely Pug. Whether this be true or not, the characteristics as exhibited in old paintings by Vandyke, Frith, and Landseer, are frequently black-and-white, a fact strengthening the theory of their Japanese origin, which perhaps explains the possession of the bold skull.