The English Toy Spaniel can become overwhelmed with too much activity. They prefer to be the aristocratic and watch from the owner's lap. For this reason, they are not a good dog to have in a family of children. They will tolerate children for a visit, but would rather not live with the activity. Cautious with strangers, the English Toy Spaniel, will be aloof with them - primarily because they are happy with the family. They are great apartment dwellers and are good choice for a first time owner. Training requires consistent, kind disciple and getting the dog to understand that you expect it to respond. Failure to properly socialization or train the dog can lead to behavior problems and an unfriendly dog. This small dog (10 to 11 inches tall and weighing 8 to 14 pounds) adapts well to a family routine. The typical life span is 10 to 12 years. The breed was popular with Mary Queen of Scots, Charles I and Charles II - thus the nickname, "Charlies".

Daily exercise is NOT a requirement for this dog. In fact, they can suffer from joint problems, so rest and relaxation for this sweet lovable dog is more along it's line. They can be viewed as difficult to train. However, they are just being Charlies. The first command is frequently ignored. They enjoy the companionship more than obeying the command. They should be protected from injury and therefore should be on a lease. They do not like the lease, however, so this can be a difficult situation. for all parties. They are prone to heat exhaustion and therefore, do not tolerate hot climates very well.

English Toy Spaniels have many health problems, compared to other breeds. Mostly these are due to breeding for the small stature, the round head and the fragile nature of the skeletal system. A common trait among the breed is fused toes, which is not a medical problem at all, but is characteristic of the breed. The health problems, common to the breed are; hydrocephalus, Umbilical Hernia, Legg-Clave-Perthes Disease, Retinal Dysplasia, Cleft Palate, Mitral Valve Insufficiency, and Patent Ductus Arteriosus. They can also have eye problems and skin problems.

The coat of the English Toy Spaniel is long, strait, and silky. It is beautiful when clean and well-trimmed. Despite this, they only require moderate grooming. A bath once or twice a month, brushing or combing once a week, and daily face washing. The breed sheds moderately, despite the long coat. Cleaning the ears regularly, checking the nails and teeth occasionally is about all the grooming required. A high quality shampoo is recommended to keep the coat shiny and silky.