If you happen to have a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel in your family, you should give that dog a regal name to match the breed. At first glance, the Finley family (Anne, Rob, and kids Lauren, Grant and Cole) did just that. Their Cavalier King Charles is named Louis V.

But hold on a second. That’s not Louis V as in Louis the Fifth, the obscure medieval French monarch. The correct pronunciation, Anne explains, is “Lou-E Vee.” As in Louis Vuitton, perhaps. A luxury brand name fit for a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.

The Finley family got Louis V when he was about nine weeks old. He’s now a cheerful and charming 8-year-old toy spaniel. “Louis V is always so loveable and calm he reminds us of a living stuffed animal,” the family says. “He has such a great disposition and personality.”

For a royal breed with a stylish name, Louis is very much a dog of the people—and other dogs. This is no surprise, as the Cavalier King Charles breed is playful, affectionate, and very adaptable. “Louis has lots of pet friends in the neighborhood,” says the family. “He pulls us in a certain direction on walks to see different friends around the neighborhood.” Louis is indiscriminate in his love of other canines. “He enjoys dogs of all sizes.”

Louis V loves windy days, when he can chase leaves as they swirl around on the driveway. “He’ll catch a leaf and it will hang out of his mouth until he catches the next one,” they say. Snowy weather is also popular for play time. “His fur picks up snowballs of all sizes!” 

When the family is away from their home, Louis V minds the house until they get back. Louis looks for them out the front window when they’re gone and patiently waits for their return.  His greeting is like the first time he has seen them in weeks, even if it’s just been an hour.

Louis V is also a big fan of treats. When the school bus comes through the neighborhood he would stop wherever he was to sit and wait for it to stop to give him a treat. When he’s out and about, Louis enjoys treats from Starbucks and Costco gas station. Forgive him if that’s a little bourgeoise. 

A full schedule of family time, treats, and neighborhood visits is exhausting. Fortunately, Louis V has a gift for recovery. “Louis loves his naps and can really relax with us—on his back, sprawled out,” they agree. “He relaxes like he’s a human.”

Louis V is a happy dog and is such an important member of their family. He’s a happy dog who found a happy family. He wants to be with them all the time. His modus operandi is to ‘love and be loved.

Lucky Louis V can rest comfortably knowing he landed in the perfect place.