A CLOSER LOOK

Compare dog breeds for everyday life.

Compare size, exercise, grooming and care tradeoffs. Unknown fields stay visible; breed tendencies do not guarantee individual behavior.

Compare selected breed traits

Ruby Cavalier King Charles Spaniel sitting on a beach in warm evening light.
Small

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel↗

A gentle companion equally happy on a relaxed walk or nestled close to their people.

Reviewed profile
Black Standard Poodle standing on grass, with a curly clipped coat and long legs.
Large

Standard Poodle↗

A bright, athletic companion with a low-shedding coat and a love of learning.

Reviewed profile
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Everyday lifeCavalier King Charles SpanielStandard Poodle
OriginGreat BritainFrance
SizeSmallLarge
Height12-13 inchesover 15 inches (standard)
Weight13-18 pounds60-70 pounds (male standard), 40-50 pounds (female standard)
Typical lifespan12-15 years10-18 years
EnergyModerateHigh
Mental stimulationModerateVery high
GroomingLowHigh
TrainabilityHighVery high
BarkingModerateHigh
SheddingLowVery low
ChildrenVery highVery high
Other dogsVery highModerate
Apartment adaptabilityVery highModerate
First-owner suitabilityVery highHigh
Climate considerationsUnknownUnknown
Monthly estimate (USD)$130–$275$195–$380
Care considerationsDiscuss inherited heart and other health conditions with a veterinarian and responsible breeder.Professional grooming and mental enrichment are essential; low shedding does not guarantee allergy compatibility.
SourceAKC Cavalier King Charles Spaniel breed guideAKC Poodle (Standard) breed guide

AKC trait ratings describe general tendencies. Apartment and first-owner ratings are editorial estimates. Unknown means unresearched or unavailable. Cats and small pets require individual assessment. Monthly estimates exclude emergencies, insurance, and initial costs. Read our methodology and sources.

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