Gosh, suddenly I've got all these questions! :-D

Is there any reason why my male Cavalier's ears should suddenly become mucky? They aren't bad - not smelly, not causing him any problems or anything. It's just that when I use the ear wipes they come away a bit grubby instead of virtually clean. I've bought some ear cleansing drops and will keep an eye on it!

Also, is a 9 mile walk too long for a Cavalier? Obviously I wouldn't walk her this far normally, but my OH took my 16 month girl and my Yankee for this length walk on Saturday and my friend was shocked when I told her. My 4 year old Cavalier boy has also done this length walk in the past. It would only be once or twice in six months, not every day! She gets regular short walks (20 - 30 minutes) and is in very good condition. She's up to size and very sturdy and stocky. She didn't seem particularly tired on the walk (slowed down a little but was cheerful throughout) and was only slightly less lively and bouncy that evening and the next day (even though she went to a show the next day).

And finally, is there any reason why she should suddenly have started snorting? I know it's a breed thing and my boy has done it as far back as I can remember, but my girl has only been doing it about a week or so - she seems a bit alarmed about it too, and very relieved when I stop her doing it!

Hi Lucy
No idea about the ear thing really. As for walking -the sky's the limit as long as they enjoy it and are well! There is no reason for why they shouldn't have long walks, mine certainly all did when they were still young and healthy. I know somebody in Australia who does endurance trials with their cavaliers and has endurance champion titles on them -now that is running (with handler on bike) for 20 kilometres! I think some peope just think small dog=different treatment whereas a small dog is still a DOG and often can do much the same as a big dog. :)

Snorting -with mine (not just the Cavaliers but the Papillon as well, and in the past Goldens too) I find a lot of it has to do with food, as some things will make it start. Have you given anything different, new treats or anything? For instance my papillon will snort like mad if ever fed on dry (but soaked) complete food, and it gets REALLY bad if he manages to steal the cats' dried food which isn't soaked but he doesn't snort at all if fed canned food only.
I also think the weather can play a part.