Facts & Origin
The Cavachon - a Bichon Frisé and Cavalier King Charles Spaniel mix
The Cavachon is a popular designer dog breed that was created by crossing a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel with a Bichon Frisé. Targeted breeding began in the late 1990s in the USA - with the aim of creating a small, charming and good-natured companion dog that is just as suitable for families as it is for older people or singles.
Both parents are considered friendly, people-oriented and not very aggressive. The Cavalier brings gentleness, playfulness and adaptability, while the Bichon Frisé is known for its cheerful, active nature and mostly allergy-friendly coat. This combination should result in a dog that is socially acceptable, easy to care for and particularly family-friendly.
Criticism of the Cavachon
Despite the Cavachon's popularity, there are also critical voices, especially from the point of view of animal welfare and canine experts. As a designer dog, the Cavachon is not officially recognized as a breed, so there are no binding standards for appearance, behaviour or health. As a result, the dogs within a litter can be very different - which can be problematic for owners with clear expectations.
Another point of criticism concerns breeding practices: many Cavachons are bred without health checks on the parents, which increases the risk of inherited diseases. The idea that crossbreeds are automatically healthier is only true if they are bred responsibly and carefully selected.
It is also criticized that mixed-breed dogs such as the Cavachon are sometimes marketed commercially without future owners being sufficiently informed about their needs, care requirements and possible health risks.
Suitability of the Cavachon
Despite the justified criticism, the Cavachon is an extremely friendly and adaptable companion dog if it has a reputable background. It is particularly suitable for families with children, older people, but also for first-time dog owners who are looking for a loving, gentle dog that can be easily integrated into everyday life.
Cavachons are usually very people-oriented, social and not very aggressive. They love contact with their family, are playful but not overly energetic, and are generally easy to train if positive reinforcement is used.
Due to their Bichon nature, they require regular grooming, but are usually mild and are considered to be relatively well tolerated by allergy sufferers. They feel just as comfortable indoors as in a house with a garden and need moderate daily exercise, mental stimulation and loving attention.
In short, the Cavachon is an ideal dog for people who are looking for a friendly, uncomplicated and affectionate companion - provided they are prepared to deal with the needs of this charming mixed breed.
| Alternate Name | - |
| Origin | France - England |
| Life expectancy | 9 - 15 years |
| Care requirements | low-maintenance |
| Activity level | low - average |
| FCI group | not recognised |
| AKC group | not recognised |
| KC group | not recognised |
More Cavalier King Charles Spaniel mixes
Attitude, character and temperament of the breed
Possible character traits
The Cavachon is generally a friendly, even-tempered and affectionate companion dog that adapts well to a wide variety of living situations. They often combine the gentleness and playfulness of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel with the lively, cheerful nature of the Bichon Frisé.
Many Cavachons are considered to be very people-oriented, they actively seek the closeness of their caregivers and enjoy being part of family life. They are often trusting, socially acceptable and patient, which also makes them suitable for households with children or older people.
They typically have a rather even temperament: Cavachons love to go for walks and play together, but are not prone to excessive nervousness or hecticness. At the same time, they are intelligent and willing to learn, which makes them easy to train - especially with positive reinforcement and loving consistency.
Overall, the Cavachon is an ideal everyday companion with lots of charm, without extreme idiosyncrasies or strong hunting instincts.
Usage
Health and breeding information
Possible diseases of the Cavachon
As with all hybrid breeds, hereditary health problems can occur in the Cavachon's parents. Good breeding with health-tested parents is therefore crucial for a long and symptom-free dog life.
Possible diseases include
Heart problems, especially mitral valve insufficiency, which is common in Cavaliers
Eye diseases, e.g. cataracts, dry eyes or retinal diseases
Allergies and skin problems, e.g. sensitive skin or food intolerances
Ear infections, especially in dogs with drooping, densely furred ears
Dental problems, which occur more frequently in small dog breeds
In rare cases: Patellar luxation (a displacement of the kneecap)
A balanced diet, regular grooming and dental care as well as preventive veterinary examinations help to counteract health problems at an early stage.
This is what a Cavachon can look like
The Cavachon is a small to medium-sized dog with a weight of around 5 to 9 kilograms and a shoulder height of between 25 and 35 centimetres. As it is a mixed breed, the appearance can vary - however, many Cavachons appear compact, harmoniously built and with a friendly, open facial expression.
The coat is usually soft, medium to long and can be slightly wavy or curly - a mixture of the silky coat of the Cavalier and the woolly hair of the Bichon Frisé. Many Cavachons shed very little and are therefore considered relatively allergy-friendly, but must be brushed regularly and occasionally trimmed to prevent matting.
The coat colors are varied: white with apricot, brown or black markings is frequently seen, but pure white or tricolor is also possible. The eyes are usually large, dark and very expressive, the ears drooping and often slightly hairy.
All in all, the Cavachon looks like a small, gentle charmer who is not only convincing on the outside, but also through his character - a dog who simply loves to be with his people.
| Fur length | short - medium |
| Fur | curly - flat coated |
| Ear shape | Floppy Ear |
| Tail | fanned out |
| Anatomy | - |
| Size ♀ | 23 - 33 cm |
| Weight ♀ | 3 - 8 kg |
| Size ♂ | 23 - 33 cm |
| Weight ♂ | 3 - 8 kg |
| Suitable For | suitable for allergy sufferers, Children, Beginner, Children |
Known Diseases
Eye diseases
Often occur with allergies and intolerances.
Patellar luxation
Patellar luxation is the term used to describe a displacement of the kneecap, which is one of the most common causes of lameness in dogs.
Kidney disease
Symptoms of kidney disease in dogs: increased urination (polyuria) increased water intake. Inflammation of the mucous membrane of the mouth. Loss of appetite
valvular insufficiency
Heart valve diseases in dogs are among the most common heart diseases. Most often it is an acquired change in a heart valve.
Mitral Valve Diseas (MVD)
Mitral valve disease in animals and dogs, respectively
Curly Coat Dry Eye
Eye disease in dogs.
FAQ
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As there are no breeding regulations and breeders are generally dubious, prices can vary greatly. Mixed breeds of all kinds can also be found in animal shelters; here there is only a nominal fee.
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The average life expectancy of a Bichon Frisé and Cavalier King Charles Spaniel mix is 12 to 15 years.
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A Bichon Frisé and Cavalier King Charles Spaniel mix needs moderate exercise, about 60 minutes to two hours a day.
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A mix of Bichon Frisé and Cavalier King Charles Spaniel must be brushed daily and bathed weekly.
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The mix of Bichon Frisé and Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a friendly, loving and intelligent dog. They get on well with children and other pets and make excellent companion dogs.
