“The Cavalier nature is to fidget and dance about, and this should not be held against him. At the same time, he should be shown on a loose lead and not hard-stacked in the ring. “
regular and complete scissors bite is preferred…” If we are lucky breed- ers, our hopeful puppy has a scissors bite from birth and never changes. But this breed is notorious for having its occlusion alter over many months and even years. That promising pup- py may go from scissors to undershot and back to scissors again—I know of one that “came right” at the age of five! Of course, as judges we can only judge on the day, but many judges do tend to give the benefit of the doubt to Cavaliers who are still in the Puppy Classes and have a slightly undershot bite. It’s up to you. Overshot bites are rarely shown and I have never known one to improve. Please do not expect the Cavalier to stand at riveted attention in the ring—or at least not for very long. The Cavalier nature is to fidget and dance about, and this should not be held against him. At the same time, he should be shown on a loose lead and not hard-stacked in the ring. Handlers may get their attention with bait or toys, but bending or kneeling down to re-set a leg on the floor or the grass is not an acceptable way to show this breed. Meticulous stacking is re- served for the table exam. Just as we want their true, happy na- ture to shine through with a wag or a dance, we also demand that they not be trimmed. No sculpting, no thin- ning, no trimming! “Specimens where coat has been altered by trimming, clipping, or by artificial means shall be so severely penalized as to be effec- tively eliminated from competition.” Judges, please heed this and have the fortitude not to reward the trimmed dog, even if he is the best one before you. Or else, what are Standards for? The Cavalier may not be an easy breed to judge, but he is such a mer- ry, happy dog that most judges enjoy their Cavalier assignments. Just re- member to catch and tame that genie in the bottle! For further information on the Cava- lier King Charles Spaniel, or a list of breeders, visit: ACKCSC.org .
T op N otch T oys , O ctober 2022 • 39
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