Cavaliers have a silky, medium-length coat with feathering on the ears, legs, chest and tail. Grooming runs $50–$85 every 6–8 weeks. Breed standard says the coat shouldn't be trimmed — though most pet owners sensibly tidy the feet and sanitary areas.
The coat
Single-length, silky and moderately long, with substantial feathering. Cavaliers shed moderately year-round. The body coat is straightforward; the feathering is where tangles form, particularly behind the ears and on the trousers.
No haircut is required. Most grooms are a bath, dry, thorough comb-through, and a tidy of the feet, pads and sanitary area.
Ears — the priority
Long, heavy, densely feathered drop ears that seal the canal make this breed genuinely prone to ear infections. The ear feathering also mats faster than anything else on the dog and drags through food and water.
- Comb the ear feathering two or three times weekly, right down to the skin behind the ear
- Check inside weekly for redness, odor or head-shaking
- Dry thoroughly after every bath or swim
- Use a narrow or raised bowl so ears don't trail in food and water
- Ask your groomer to thin the hair under the ear leather for airflow
What it costs
| Service | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Full groom (bath, dry, comb, tidy) | $50–$85 |
| Bath & tidy | $35–$60 |
| Dematting surcharge | $15–$30 per 15 min |
| Nail trim only | $10–$20 |
Annual cost: roughly $350–$650.
Home care
- Comb the feathering — ears, chest, legs, tail — two or three times weekly
- Brush the body weekly with a pin or slicker brush
- Mist before brushing; silky coats break when brushed dry
- Trim paw pad hair monthly — Cavaliers slip on hard floors otherwise
- Keep the sanitary area tidy, which matters on a feathered dog
- Wipe eyes daily if your dog is prone to tear staining
A health note
Cavaliers have a high incidence of mitral valve disease and can tire or become breathless more easily than other dogs of their size. Tell your groomer if your dog has a diagnosed heart condition — a shorter, split appointment with breaks is kinder, and it's information they need.
Frequently asked questions
Should a Cavalier's coat be cut?
Breed standard says no. In practice, tidying the feet, pads and sanitary area is normal and sensible. Some owners have the feathering shortened for practicality, which is a reasonable choice for a muddy dog.
Why does my Cavalier keep getting ear infections?
Heavy feathered drop ears seal the canal. Weekly checks, thinning the ear hair and thorough drying reduce the frequency considerably.
How often do Cavaliers need grooming?
Every six to eight weeks, with feathering combed at home two or three times a week.