Cavachon: temperament, price, health, and breeders

The Cavachon is the result of a cross between the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and the Bichon Frise. The first intentional breeding programs appeared in the United States in the mid-1990s, with the aim of combining the Cavalier's gentleness and the Bichon's low-shedding coat. It has become very popular in the United Kingdom as a small family dog. The Cavachon is recognized neither by the FCI nor by the major kennel clubs.

The Cavachon is a harmonious small dog measuring 28 to 35 cm and weighing about 6 to 9 kg. Its round head has large dark eyes and long drooping, fringed ears. The coat is medium-length, silky, wavy to curly. The coats are often white with apricot, red or tricolour patches, reminiscent of those of the Cavalier.

Gentle, affectionate and even-tempered, the Cavachon is a very sociable companion who loves children, other dogs and cats. He does not have the soul of a guard dog and readily welcomes strangers. Very attached to his loved ones, he does not like being left alone.

Calm at home, he enjoys daily walks and games without needing intense exercise. He adapts very well to apartment living and city life.

Eager to please and sensitive, he learns easily with gentle methods. Learning to be alone must be gradual to avoid separation anxiety.

The price of a Cavachon depends mainly on the health tests of the Cavalier parent and the seriousness of the breeding.

The Cavachon can inherit the vulnerabilities of its parents, particularly mitral valve disease and syringomyelia known in the Cavalier King Charles. The choice of tested breeding dogs is essential.

Small dog with moderate exercise needs, it needs a complete diet in measured portions.

The Cavachon is often chosen as a companion dog for elderly people or as a visiting dog in facilities, thanks to its calmness and gentleness.