If you want a dog that is cute, small, friendly, loving and intelligent, then the Cavachon dog breed may be the one for you. This fun loving dog combines the playful friendly nature of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and the robust, long lifespan of the Bichon Frisse. Let us take a look at the characteristic features of the Cavachon.
Facts and characteristics of the Cavachon
- This is a small designer dog breed that is result of the cross between Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and the Bichon Frisse. Ideal weight for males and females is between 12-18lbs. If you are wondering how big your Cavachon puppy will get, the answer is about 13-15 inches at withers.
- This is a relatively new breed having originated sometime in the 1990s.
- Their coat is thick and fluffy; cavachon shedding is not much of an issue as long as you groom your pet daily.
- Cavachons were first bred in the United States, mainly as companion dogs or family pets. They are great with kids and need moderate exercise making them suitable pets for seniors or busy people. Like other lap dogs or Velcro breeds, these dogs will be more than happy to sit in their owner’s laps all day long!
- Today, the Cavachon is considered to be one of the most popular cross breeds or designer breeds in the United States.
- They come in various shades though white and brown with spotting are most common.
Where to find a Cavachon
If you are looking for Cavachon dog, then you must start by finding reputable Cavachon breeders in your city. The fact that you are looking for Cavachon breeders means that you are rightly avoiding puppy mills and pet shops. However, just because someone advertises themselves to be a breeder of premium Cavachon breed, does not necessarily mean that they can be believed at face value. It is a good idea to only deal with Cavachon breeders having good reputation. You can check with a local veterinarian or simply visit the AKC website for a list of registered Cavachon breeders in your area.
If you decide to get your Cavachon dog from breeders, you must visit several breeders before making a choice. Alternatively, you can go in for Cavachon rescue dogs. This way, you will be saving a dog’s life and doing the world a favor. If there are several puppies, it is a good idea to observe them in their litter. If possible, ask for detailed records about their vaccination and health. Select a puppy that appears healthy, has clear eyes, nice coat and is curious and lively.
Are Cavachon dogs hypoallergenic?
There is no simple answer to this question. The Cavalier King Charles is not hypoallergenic but the Bichon Frisse is. So there is 50%chance that one might develop an allergy to their Cavachon puppy or adult. Remember: people are not only allergic to dog hair; they are also allergic to the dander and dead skin cells shed by dogs as well as humans. Therefore, one cannot say for sure if one’s allergy is caused by their Cavachon. Shedding, thankfully is minimal in this breed and with regular grooming of their fluffy, thick and curly coat, one should not have too much of an issue with allergies.
Temperament
This is an active breed that usually does well with people and other animals and mostly hates being left alone. Your Cavachon will gladly spend all day in your lap. While they are active and energetic they also love entertaining themselves. As a result, the Cavachon makes a great pet for inactive owners. Early training and socialization is a must for this highly sociable breed.
Training
Get your Cavachon puppy enrolled in a basic obedience school at an early age. You can also train your pet at home by reading training guides or watching dog training videos. Whatever method you choose, always be consistent and gentle in training. Use praise and rewards as positive reinforcement for wanted behavior. Training your pet should also include basics of housetraining, crate training and handling biting at young age. Do teach your puppy basic manners like not to pull on the leash, or bark and jump. You can also train him/her to obey basic commands like sit, heel, roll, fetch etc. If you plan to travel with your pet, get him used to car or air travel early on. Training and games are cool ways to bond with your pet and also keep them mentally stimulated.
Exercise
This is one of those dog breeds that does not need too much exercise. Having said so, younger Cavachons need to expend the extra energy they have. So try to keep your pet active if you wish to avoid unwanted behavior like biting, digging, chewing furniture etc. As stated above, there are many activities you can enjoy with your pet which will help in bonding and also keep him happy and stimulated.
Health issues
All dogs have health issues which could be a result of heredity. Your pup will be prone to ear and skin infections. They also have inherited diseases like heart murmur, hip dysplasia etc. A regular vet exam can catch minor problems and prevent them from escalating. Always use flea and tick prevention medicine to prevent parasites. Regularly groom and bathe your pet. Feeding a high quality diet every few hours will keep your light, though sporadic eater, satisfied and healthy. Life span of this designer breed is about 10-12 years.
Grooming and shedding issues
When fanciers of a breed say that their dogs don’t shed or have hair not fur, then they are talking about coats with secondary hair. In case you want to keep your home clean, then the Cavachon is a good breed for you because it does not shed too much. Having said so, you may still want to clip your pet’s hair every few months and also regularly comb and bathe your pet to remove the top loose coat. Bathing twice a month and a few swipes of a brush or fine toothed comb every day will remove ticks and fleas and also reduce hairy mess on your furniture and clothing.
