Inguinal Hernia: The condition is the result of abdominal organs, fat or tissue protruding through the inguinal ring. Inguinal hernias are presented as skin-covered bulges in the groin. They can be bilateral, involving both sides, or unilateral, involving only one side. Inguinal hernias are more common in females than males, but do occur in both sexes. As with umbilical hernias most inguinal hernias will shrink and disappear as the puppy grows, although you must keep an eye on the size of the hernia(s). Inguinal hernias can also occur in unspayed, middle-aged female dogs. This may occur as the result of stretching of abdominal tissue due to pregnancy, or atrophy of abdominal tissue and musculature due to advanced age.

Umbilical Hernia: This type of hernia is also very common in Cavalier King Charles Spaniel puppies and seldom need to be repaired. It is most likely caused when the mother Cavalier King Charles Spaniel pulls too hard on the umbilical cord at birth causing the hernia. There are different opinions on this type of hernia about whether it is genetic or caused at birth. If the umbilical ring does not close immediately after birth sometimes a little fatty tissue is trapped on the outside of the abdomen after the ring closes causing a bubble-like area where the umbilical cord was attached. If the bubble cannot be pushed back up into the abdomen it is called a non-reducible hernia. If the bubble can be pushed back up into the abdomen then it is called a reducible hernia and surgery is advisable if the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is going to be bred. This umbilical hernia existing on a future show dog is still allowed to show in AKC sanctioned events and a dog with this type of hernia can still be bred. Since this type of hernia is very widespread in Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and does not harm the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel puppy as far as future health is concerned the condition does not lower the adoption price of a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel puppy with this condition.