Welcome to Lizmere Cavaliers !
We are a small breeding and show kennel located between Charlotte and Asheville, North Carolina. For almost 25 years we have been owned by this special breed! In 2003 we started showing our dogs in the AKC conformation ring, making up 21 Champions to date.
Our Cavaliers have earned Championship status as well as Grand Championships, Best of Breed, Best Opposite Sex, Awards of Merit and Toy Group placements.
They have competed at AKC sanctioned shows coast to coast and at Westminster Kennel Club, Eukanuba and Royal Canin shows. We are proud of our accomplishments over two decades with Cavaliers!
At Lizmere our goal is good health, type and temperament. With a focus on quality over quantity, we prioritize the health and well-being of our Cavaliers, ensuring that each puppy receives the love and care they deserve. From our beginning in 2000 we have curated the best pedigrees from long established breeders around the world, focusing on health and long lived bloodlines, as well as breed type. Learn more about the breed.
Available
See our currently available puppies & adults !
Our Home
We are nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains on more than 50 acres of wilderness. Our dogs run, play, chase butterflies and bugs daily in our yard and garden. Exercise is key!
Meet the Breeder
I’m Victoria Gardner, the breeder behind Lizmere Cavalier King Charles Spaniels located in Casar, NC. We are lifelong dog enthusiasts, and we’re excited to share our passion and purpose with others through our breeding program. We are dedicated to always providing our buyers and our puppies with a positive experience, which includes remaining committed to responsible practices when it comes to breeding, training, and rehoming our puppies.
Breeding Philosophy
Breeding is about more than producing puppies; it’s a commitment to preserving the future of the breed and ensuring each dog’s quality of life.
“My breeding philosophy centers on a deep dedication to the health, temperament, and overall well-being of Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. Responsible breeding means prioritizing health above all and taking proactive steps to prevent hereditary issues in this beloved breed.”
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are prone to specific genetic health challenges. A responsible breeder recognizes these risks and works diligently to minimize them. Key health concerns include:
• Mitral Valve Disease (MVD): A prevalent and serious issue leading to heart failure in older Cavaliers.
• Syringomyelia (SM): A painful neurological condition where fluid-filled cavities form in the spinal cord near the brain.
• Hip Dysplasia: Though less common in small breeds, hip dysplasia can impact Cavaliers, leading to mobility challenges.
• Eye Problems: Conditions such as cataracts and retinal dysplasia may impair vision.
• Patellar Luxation: A kneecap dislocation that causes lameness and may require surgical intervention.
Health Testing Protocols
• Heart Screening: “Each dog in my breeding program undergoes screening by a certified veterinarian for early signs of MVD, which is vital to address the breed’s heart health.”
• Hips and Patellas: “I perform hip and patella evaluations to ensure strong, stable joints, essential for lifelong mobility and well-being.”
• Eye Exams: “Ophthalmologic exams by a veterinary specialist help ensure that breeding dogs have healthy vision and are free from hereditary eye issues.”
• DNA Testing: “I conduct DNA tests for breed-specific issues such as Episodic Falling Syndrome and Dry Eye & Curly Coat.”
While physical health is paramount, Cavaliers are also known for their gentle and affectionate temperament. My breeding philosophy embraces both these aspects.
“Alongside health, I’m committed to preserving the warm, loving nature that makes Cavaliers so beloved. A well-bred Cavalier should be both healthy and a joy to live with.”
“Though I prioritize health, I also seek dogs that embody the Cavalier’s signature temperament—affectionate, intelligent, and gentle with children and other pets. My goal is to improve the breed and help future generations of Cavaliers thrive.”
Limited and Thoughtful Breeding
“I limit the number of litters each dog has, carefully planning each breeding to maximize health and genetic diversity rather than breeding for appearance or demand alone.”
Puppies are raised in a nurturing environment to foster confidence, social skills, and resilience, ensuring they are well-prepared for their new homes.
Commitment to Lifelong Support
“I’m always available to support the families of my puppies and will take back any dog, at any age, if the family can no longer care for them. Responsible breeding includes a commitment to each puppy’s well-being throughout its life.”
Educating new Cavalier owners about the breed’s unique needs and potential health concerns is essential to responsible breeding.
“I believe in empowering new owners with knowledge, including information about ongoing health screenings, heart health maintenance, and recognizing signs of conditions like syringomyelia.”
Commitment to Genetic Diversity
“I avoid inbreeding and work to maintain a healthy genetic pool, giving each puppy the best chance for a long, healthy life.”
“Every breeding decision is made with the breed’s future in mind, balancing genetic diversity with traits true to the Cavalier standard.”
Statement of Responsibility and Care
“To me, breeding Cavaliers is not just a hobby—it’s a lifelong commitment to the health, happiness, and betterment of this wonderful breed.”
“I am honored to play a role in the lives of these gentle, loving dogs and am dedicated to producing Cavaliers who are not only beautiful but also resilient, healthy, and well-loved.”