Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Shedding: Groomer-Recommended Ways to Keep It Under Control

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels shed year-round, and if you’re not staying ahead of it, their silky hair ends up everywhere. While their shedding isn’t extreme, it builds up fast without regular grooming.

Understanding Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Shedding

Cavaliers have a medium-length coat that’s soft, feathered, and surprisingly high-maintenance. They shed consistently throughout the year, with heavier shedding typically in spring and fall as the seasons change. Unlike some breeds, they don’t have a thick undercoat, but their silky fur still finds its way onto clothes, furniture, and car seats if left unmanaged.

This breed’s shedding is normal and healthy, but sudden hair loss, bald patches, or itchy skin can be signs of an underlying issue. If you notice anything unusual, a visit to your vet is always a smart first step. Assuming everything checks out, it’s all about routine. The right grooming habits make a huge difference in how much loose hair you’ll deal with on a daily basis.

Use the Right Brushes Often

Brushing is the most effective way to control shedding at home. Cavaliers benefit from a consistent brushing routine at least three to four times per week. During seasonal shedding periods, daily brushing helps remove loose hair before it spreads through your home.

The best tools for this breed include:

Slicker Brush: Great for loosening and lifting shed hair from the coat's surface.

Mat Splitter: Useful for breaking up stubborn tangles, especially behind the ears and under the legs.

Metal Comb: Perfect for finishing, especially on feathered areas like the ears, tail, and chest.

Start brushing from the back and work your way forward, always brushing in the direction the hair grows. Be especially thorough behind the ears, under the legs, and along the feathering, where mats tend to form.

Bathe with Purpose

Bathing your Cavalier every 4 to 6 weeks helps loosen dead hair and keeps the coat clean and shiny. Use a mild, hydrating dog shampoo followed by a light conditioner to maintain skin and coat health. Always rinse thoroughly to avoid irritation that can cause extra shedding.

Dry and Detangle

Skip the air dry if you can. A gentle blow dryer on a low or cool setting helps remove more loose fur and prevents tangles from forming. Brush through again once dry to catch what the dryer lifts.

Fuel Coat Health from Within

Feeding a high-quality diet with ingredients rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids promotes a healthy coat and skin. You can also talk to your vet about adding supplements like fish oil or biotin if your Cavalier is shedding more than usual. And don’t forget the basics, hydration is just as important. Make sure clean, fresh water is available at all times.

How Groomers Can Help Reduce Shedding

Professional grooming plays a big role in controlling shedding, especially during seasonal coat changes. Many Cavaliers benefit from a grooming appointment every 4 to 6 weeks, not just for looks, but for coat health and comfort.

At the salon, your groomer will use high-velocity dryers to blow out loose fur more effectively than home dryers can.

They’ll also use coat-safe de-shedding shampoos and tools designed to lift hair that brushing alone may miss. Feathered areas prone to matting, like ears and tail, can be lightly trimmed for cleanliness and easier upkeep.

Most importantly, a trained groomer can spot early signs of skin issues or abnormal shedding before they become a bigger problem. If your Cavalier's coat feels dull, greasy, or you're overwhelmed with the amount of hair at home, regular professional grooming can make a dramatic difference.

Nutrition Tips to Support a Healthy Coat

A good grooming routine won’t do much without proper nutrition backing it up. Your Cavalier’s coat health starts from the inside out, and a balanced diet can significantly reduce excessive shedding.

Look for high-quality commercial dog food that lists real meat as the first ingredient and includes omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. But you can also boost coat health using simple ingredients from your own kitchen:

• Cooked salmon or sardines (boneless and unseasoned): Rich in omega-3s for healthy skin and a shiny coat

• Eggs: A great source of protein and biotin, which supports fur strength and growth

• Chia seeds or ground flaxseed: High in essential fatty acids

• Sweet potatoes and carrots: Packed with beta-carotene (vitamin A) that supports skin regeneration

• Plain yogurt: Offers probiotics and protein that may help with skin balance and digestion

Introduce these additions gradually and in small amounts alongside your dog’s regular meals. Always avoid seasoning, onions, garlic, and excess oils. And as with any dietary change, consult your veterinarian if your dog has allergies or sensitivities.

Adding these natural, coat-supportive foods into your dog’s routine can help reduce dryness, itchiness, and dullness—making it easier to manage shedding with every brush stroke.

Simple Coat-Boosting Recipe: Salmon & Sweet Potato Topper

This easy, vet-friendly topper blends nutrient-rich whole foods that support skin and coat health. Spoon it over your dog’s regular kibble once or twice a week for a natural boost.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup cooked, flaked salmon (no bones, skin removed)

• 1/4 cup mashed sweet potato

• 1 tablespoon plain unsweetened yogurt

• 1/2 teaspoon ground flaxseed

• 1 tablespoon finely grated carrot (optional)

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a small bowl and mix until well blended.

2. Allow to cool to room temperature once freshly cooked.

3. Serve over your dog’s regular meal. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Serving Suggestion:

• For dogs under 15 pounds: add 1 to 2 tablespoons per meal

• For dogs 15 to 30 pounds: add 2 to 3 tablespoons per meal

• For dogs over 30 pounds: add 1/4 to 1/2 cup as a meal topper

This recipe provides a healthy dose of omega-3s, biotin, and vitamin A—all essential for supporting coat health and reducing dry, flaky skin. Always introduce new foods gradually and consult your vet for any dietary concerns.

Final Thoughts

Shedding is part of life with a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, but it doesn't have to take over your home. With the right tools, a consistent grooming routine, nutritious food, and a little help from your groomer, you can keep your dog’s coat in great shape and minimize loose hair.

Start with what you can do at home like brushing, bathing, healthy meals. Don't hesitate to ask your groomer for support. A few smart habits go a long way toward keeping your Cavalier clean, comfortable, and beautiful year-round.

Have a favorite grooming trick or coat-friendly recipe of your own? We’d love to hear it. Share your tips in the comments or tag us with your before-and-after grooming photos!