Cavachon: Guide to This Lovable Designer Dog

Ever heard of a Cavachon? If not, you’re in for a treat. A Cavachon is a cross between a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a Bichon Frise. This designer dog has been melting hearts with its teddy bear looks, affectionate personality, and hypoallergenic potential. It’s no wonder more and more people are bringing these adorable pups into their homes.

Characteristic	Details
Breed Type	Designer/Hybrid Breed (Cavalier King Charles Spaniel + Bichon Frise)
Size	Small
Average Height	12 – 13 inches (30 – 33 cm)
Average Weight	12 – 20 pounds (5.4 – 9 kg)
Lifespan	12 – 15 years
Coat Type	Soft, wavy or curly; medium length
Common Coat Colors	White with apricot, tan, or black; tricolor variants possible
Shedding Level	Low to minimal
Hypoallergenic	Often considered allergy-friendly (not guaranteed)
Temperament	Affectionate, friendly, playful, social
Good with Children	Yes
Good with Other Pets	Yes
Exercise Needs	Moderate (30–45 minutes/day)
Trainability	High – eager to please, responds well to positive reinforcement
Common Health Issues	Heart murmurs, patellar luxation, eye conditions, allergies
Grooming Needs	Moderate – brush 3–4 times/week; professional grooming every 6–8 weeks
Barking Level	Low to moderate – may bark when alert or excited
Ideal Living Space	Apartment or house; well-suited to various living situations
Cost (Puppy Price)	$1,000 – $2,500 (depending on breeder and location)
First-Time Dog Owner Friendly?	Yes
Separation Anxiety Risk	High – prefers not to be alone for long periods

History and Origin of the Breed

The Cavachon made its debut in the late 1990s, part of the designer dog craze that took off in the United States. Breeders were aiming to combine the gentle, affectionate nature of the Cavalier with the playful, allergy-friendly traits of the Bichon Frise—and they absolutely nailed it. While it’s not recognized by the AKC (yet!), the Cavachon has won over countless fans as a beloved companion.

Why Are Cavachons So Popular?

They’re cute, cuddly, smart, and they usually don’t shed much. Plus, Cavachons adapt well to different lifestyles—whether you’re living in a cozy apartment or a big family home with a backyard. Their friendly demeanor and manageable size make them a favorite among first-time dog owners, seniors, and families alike.

Cavachon Breed Characteristics

Physical Appearance

Imagine a living stuffed animal. That’s your Cavachon. They usually have a soft, fluffy coat and expressive eyes that practically beg for belly rubs. With a slightly rounded head, floppy ears, and a compact body, their cuteness is off the charts.

Typical Size and Weight

Cavachons are small dogs, which is a big plus if you’re tight on space. On average, they weigh between 12 and 20 pounds and stand about 12 to 13 inches tall. Perfect lap size, wouldn’t you say?

Coat Type and Colors

Their coats are typically medium-length, soft, and wavy or curly. Colors vary widely—white with apricot, tan, or black markings is common, but some have tricolor patterns, too. Thanks to their Bichon side, many Cavachons are considered low-shedding, making them a better choice for allergy sufferers.

Lifespan Expectations

You can expect your Cavachon to be around for a good while. With proper care, they typically live between 12 and 15 years, and many even longer!

Cavachon Temperament and Personality

A Friendly and Social Companion

These dogs were born to love and be loved. Cavachons are affectionate, people-oriented pups that thrive on attention. They’re known for their cheerful disposition and are often described as “velcro dogs” because they love sticking close to their humans.

Great With Kids and Families

Have kids? You’re in luck. Cavachons usually do great with children. They’re gentle, playful, and not too big, making them a safe and sweet companion for little ones. Just be sure to supervise playtime with very young kids to avoid accidental roughhousing.

How They Behave With Other Pets

These social butterflies get along well with other dogs and even cats—especially if they’ve been socialized early. They’re not aggressive or territorial, which helps make introductions a breeze.

Caring for Your Cavachon

Grooming Needs

While they don’t shed much, Cavachons do need regular grooming. Aim to brush them a few times a week to keep tangles at bay. A professional grooming session every 6–8 weeks helps keep their coat in tip-top shape. Don’t forget ear cleaning, nail trims, and dental care, too!

Diet and Nutrition

Cavachons don’t need fancy diets, but quality is key. A high-quality kibble or balanced raw food works well. They typically eat ½ to 1.5 cups of food daily, split into two meals. Avoid overfeeding—these little guys can get chubby fast.

Exercise Requirements

They’re not marathon runners, but Cavachons still need daily exercise. A couple of short walks and some indoor or backyard playtime usually do the trick. Mental stimulation is just as important—think puzzle toys or short training sessions.

General Health Tips

Keep up with regular vet visits, stay on top of vaccinations, and watch for signs of dental or joint issues. Also, make sure to protect their delicate eyes from irritation and clean their ears regularly to prevent infections.

Training Your Cavachon

Are Cavachons Easy to Train?

In a word—yes! Cavachons are eager to please and generally quick learners. Positive reinforcement works wonders. They love praise, treats, and short, fun training sessions.

Potty Training Tips

Start early, be consistent, and have patience. Cavachons can be a bit stubborn, but crate training and a regular potty schedule go a long way. Accidents happen, but with consistency, they catch on quickly.

Dealing With Separation Anxiety

This breed loves their humans. So much so, they can struggle with being alone for long periods. Training and gradual desensitization help. Leaving toys, music, or even a used shirt with your scent can make them feel more secure.

Common Health Issues in Cavachons

Genetic Conditions to Watch For

Because they’re hybrids, Cavachons can inherit health issues from both parent breeds. Common concerns include:

• Heart murmurs (from the Cavalier side)
• Patellar luxation (knee cap dislocation)
• Eye conditions like cataracts or tear staining
• Skin allergies

Preventive Care Tips

Regular vet checkups, a healthy diet, and moderate exercise help minimize risks. Also, ask your breeder about genetic testing and the health history of the puppy’s parents.

Choosing a Cavachon Puppy

What to Look For in a Reputable Breeder

A trustworthy breeder will:

• Show you where the puppy was raised
• Provide health certificates and vet records
• Let you meet the puppy’s parents
• Ask you lots of questions (this is a good thing!)

Red Flags to Avoid

If you spot any of the following, run:

• Puppies that look sick or underweight
• Dirty or overcrowded conditions
• Breeders who dodge your questions or rush the sale
• No health guarantees or paperwork

Adoption vs. Buying

There’s no wrong choice here. While breeders give you predictability, rescues and shelters can be incredibly rewarding. Plus, adult Cavachons often come already trained and housebroken!

Is a Cavachon Right for You?

Ideal Living Environments

Cavachons are indoor dogs that love comfort. They do just fine in apartments as long as they get their daily walks. A yard is a bonus, not a requirement.

Who Should Get a Cavachon?

This breed is a great match for:

• Singles or seniors wanting companionship
• Families with kids or other pets
• First-time dog owners
• People looking for a lower-shedding dog

Pros and Cons of Owning a Cavachon

Pros:

• Loving and friendly
• Low shedding
• Adaptable to small spaces
• Great with families

Cons:

• Prone to separation anxiety
• Regular grooming required
• May be a bit pricey

Conclusion

So, is the Cavachon your dream dog? If you’re looking for a sweet, sociable, and adorable companion who’ll shower you with affection and brighten your every day, the answer is a big yes. With the right care and attention, a Cavachon can be a loyal family member for years to come. Just be ready to fall in love—they have that effect on people!

FAQs About Cavachons

1. Are Cavachons good apartment dogs?
Absolutely! They’re small, quiet, and adapt well to apartment living with regular walks.

2. Do Cavachons bark a lot?
Not usually. They might bark to alert you but aren’t considered overly vocal.

3. Are Cavachons hypoallergenic?
They’re low-shedding and more allergy-friendly than many breeds, but no dog is truly hypoallergenic.

4. Can Cavachons be left alone during the day?
Not for too long—they’re prone to separation anxiety. If you work long hours, consider a dog walker or daycare.

5. How much exercise does a Cavachon need?
About 30–45 minutes a day through walks and playtime is plenty.

6. Do Cavachons need professional grooming?
Yes, every 6–8 weeks to keep their coat clean and healthy.

7. Are Cavachons easy to potty train?
With consistency and positive reinforcement, most Cavachons catch on quickly.

8. What’s the average cost of a Cavachon puppy?
Typically between $1,000 and $2,500 depending on breeder and lineage.

9. Do Cavachons get along with cats?
Usually, yes—especially if they’re raised together or socialized early.

10. What’s the best age to bring home a Cavachon puppy?
8 to 12 weeks is ideal so they can properly bond and start early training.