 Thought to have originated in the Far East , toy spaniels were first seen in Europe during the 16th century . They were made famous by their association with King Charles II of England ( 1630 – 1685 ) and have been linked with English royalty since the time of Queen Mary I ( 1516 – 1558 ) . Members of the breed have been owned by Grand Duchess Anastasia Nikolaevna of Russia , Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth II . 
