You may have found terms, initials or other material on our site that you responded to by thinking, “What’s that?” These may help you.

AAC – This stands for the Agility Association of Canada. For more information on AAC agility, the games played, rules, and event locations visit www.aac.ca

Agility – A dog sport in which dogs, guided by their handlers, negotiate a course which contains jumps, teeter, dog walk, etc. Agility games in AAC agility include Standard, Gamblers, Snooker, and Jumpers. There are three levels: starter, advanced, and masters. CKC agility includes Standard and Jumper events with three levels: Novice, Intermediate, and Excellent. There is also the North American Dog Agility Council (NASDAC), and AKC (American Kennel Club) Agility.

Application form – This is the form you will fill out if you are interested in purchasing a PRAMODA Cavaliers puppy. The information provided by you will help us in selecting the right homes for our puppies and the right puppy to their new home.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Club of Canada – This organization is the national club for Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. Their site contains information on upcoming events, the Cavalier breed, a breeders’ directory, and much more. Visit www.cavaliercanada.com

CGN – Canadian Good Neighbour certificate.  This is awarded for a dog completing specific tasks which show the dog’s friendliness, self control, and cooperation.

Champion – A Canadian Champion is a dog who has met the requirements set out by the Canadian Kennel Club. The dog has earned at least ten points, including a two point major, (meaning that it won over two other dogs).

CKC – The Canadian Kennel Club. This is the Canadian registry through which purebred Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are registered. They also govern registered dogs of all breeds that are accepted by the CKC. Visit www.ckc.ca

Conformation classes – These are classes where you learn how to show your dog in conformation dog shows. These classes will help you become comfortable in the show ring, teach your dog how to behave in the ring, and you will learn how to show your dog to its best advantage.

Dam – mother

DNA test – DNA tests are conducted to indicate whether a dog contains a gene that would contribute to issues for their puppies. Both parents need to be tested.

Dry Eye/Curly Coat Syndrome – This is a very serious condition affecting the eyes and skin. It can be identified through DNA testing. For more information see www.cavaliercanada.com

EFS (Episodic Falling Syndrome) – Episodic falling syndrome can be found in the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. For more information, see www.cavaliercanada.com

Eye CERF – This is an abbreviation for Canine Eye Registry Foundation. The dog’s eyes are tested for abnormalities, then certified by the OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals).

Grand Champion – A Canadian Grand Champion is a dog who has completed his or her Championship, then goes on to earn twenty additional points, including two 2- point majors (winning over three dogs), and one Best of Breed.

Health clearances – Reputable breeders want to be careful to breed healthy dogs who are not likely to pass on problems to their offspring. Some health clearances are DNA tests for genetic issues. Tests may include blood tests, x-rays or other tests.

Heart Cerf – This is an abbreviation for heart certification. The dog is examined by a qualified veterinarian to assess any heart abnormalities. The dog is then certified through the OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals).

Hip Dysplasia – A dog with hip dysplasia has hips that do not fit into the hip sockets properly and/or whose sockets are too shallow to properly hold the ball of the hip in place. This is a very painful condition that worsens with time and affects the dog’s mobility as well as quality of life.

Humane Society of Canada – The Humane Society of Canada works to protect animals and the environment.  There are branches across Canada.

Kennel Name – The kennel name is the official name of the breeder, attained through the Canadian Kennel Club, American Kennel Club, etc. Our Canadian Kennel Club registered kennel name is PRAMODA.

Microchip – A microchip is about the size of a grain of rice. It is placed under the dog’s skin. It contains a number only that dog has. Microchips are used for identification. If the dog is ever lost, it can be identified through a microchip scanner.

Obedience – CKC – The Canadian Kennel Club holds Obedience matches. The dog works beside its handler to complete a directed course. There are several levels, each more difficult than the last. At higher levels, obedience competitions include off-leash work, more complicated directions, and jumps. For more information visit www.ckc.com

Obedience – Rally-O – Rally-O obedience is somewhat similar to CKC obedience except the course they need to complete is guided by signs placed on the floor. The sign may direct you to have your dog lay down, complete a left turn, etc. For a list of signs and rules, see www.canadianrallyo.ca

Particolour Cavalier – Blenheim (red and white) and tricolour( white, black and tan) are called particolour Cavaliers.

Puppy classes – Puppy classes are held especially for young dogs under six months of age. The purpose of the class is twofold – first, to teach the puppy basic commands such as sit, down, and come. The second purpose is to provide an opportunity to socialize puppies in a safe environment.

Sire – father

SPCA – Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals – The SPCA takes in dogs who are found or surrendered to them, and find homes for those animals.

Therapy dogs – Therapy dogs are used in a number of situations. They are valuable in pet visitation programs to seniors’ homes. They are also used to help people with anxiety, PTSD, and other emotional disorders. Dogs used as therapy dogs should have certification that they are suitable. Therapy dogs need to be friendly, outgoing, confident dogs who are gentle and can deal with sudden movements,and loud noises.

Whole colour Cavalier – A whole colour Cavalier is either solid ruby (red) or black with tan markings. They should have no white on them, although small white markings can happen on their feet, chest, or chin.