Columbia River Cavalier Club

ACKCSC Response to the 12/10/09 Today Show Segment
The sensationalist segment that aired on the Today Show, Dec. 10, 2009,
gave a bleak and non-scientific picture of the world of purebred dogs in
general and the breeder in specific. Unfortunately, it highlighted the Cavalier
in its bias.
Reputable Cavalier breeders the world over acknowledge that, like all
purebreds as well as mixed breeds, the Cavalier does have health concerns. But
the percentages of dogs affected with various ailments were exaggerated,
and the Today interview with the animal "welfare" professor was designed to
put breeders in the worst possible light.
It is important to understand that the members of the ACKCSC have pledged
themselves in writing to uphold the highest ethical standards and breeding
practices. In part, they pledge “…not {to} breed from any Cavalier known
to have inheritable, disqualifying, disabling, or potentially disabling
health defects.” This would, in most cases, include not breeding too closely
so as to risk potential concentration of genes that might predispose to 
disease of any sort.
Nature is not perfect, and no one can absolutely guarantee that the puppy
they sell will not at some point develop a genetic condition that
challenges his/her good health. But the great majority of Cavaliers live long and
happy lives in caring households. It is not uncommon for many to reach the
age of 12-14. 
We urge the public to ask the breeder for health records and longevity
reports on his bloodlines. Good breeders will be happy to supply you with
detailed information. In the meantime, enjoy your Cavaliers!