Boston Terrier vs Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: full comparison
| Trait | Boston Terrier | Cavalier King Charles Spaniel |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Small | Small |
| Energy level | Medium | Medium |
| Trainability | High | High |
| Friendliness | Very High | Very High |
| Good with children | Very High | Very High |
| Grooming needs | Very Low | Medium |
| Shedding | Medium | Medium |
| Barking | Low | Low |
| Protectiveness | Medium | Very Low |
| Adaptability | Very High | Very High |
| Typical lifespan | 13 years | 11 years |
| Hypoallergenic | No | No |
Key differences at a glance
- The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel has noticeably higher grooming than the Boston Terrier.
- The Boston Terrier has noticeably higher protectiveness than the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.
Which should you choose?
Choose the Boston Terrier if you want a more protective, watchful guardian, you prefer lower grooming upkeep, or you want a longer-lived breed.
Choose the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel if you simply prefer the breed — it's very closely matched with the Boston Terrier on temperament, size and care.
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Find your perfect match Try the free quizFrequently asked questions
- Is the Boston Terrier or the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel better for families with children?
- Both the Boston Terrier and the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel are considered good with children when properly socialised and supervised.
- Which sheds more, the Boston Terrier or the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel?
- The Boston Terrier and Cavalier King Charles Spaniel shed a similar amount (medium).
- Which is easier to train, the Boston Terrier or the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel?
- Both breeds have comparable trainability. Consistency and positive reinforcement work well for each.