Cavachon at a Glance: Quick Facts

Before we dive deep, here is a quick overview of the Cavachon key characteristics. This table provides a snapshot of what you can expect from this spirited toy breed.

Temperament

Affectionate, Gentle, Playful, Sociable, Intelligent

Height

12-13 inches

Weight

15-25 pounds

Lifespan

10-15 years

Grooming Needs

Moderate to High; daily brushing, professional grooming recommended

Exercise Level

Low to Moderate; daily walks and playtime are sufficient

Good With

Families, children, seniors, singles, other pets

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Shedding Level

Low; often considered “hypoallergenic

The Soul of a Cavachon: Temperament and Personality

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The Cavachon’s personality is a perfect blend of its parent breeds, resulting in one of the most agreeable and loving companions in the canine world. From the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, they inherit a deep-seated gentleness and a desire to be a lap dog. From the Bichon Frise, they get a dose of playful energy and a clever, inquisitive mind.

Cavachons are true people-pleasers. They form incredibly strong bonds with their families and thrive on being part of every activity, whether it’s snuggling on the couch for a movie or a gentle romp in the backyard. Their intelligence, inherited from the Bichon, makes them quick learners. However, this can sometimes be paired with a charmingly stubborn streak. Patience and positive reinforcement are key to unlocking their full potential.

One of their most defining traits is their exceptional sociability. They tend to see everyone—family, strangers, and other animals—as a potential new friend. This makes them poor guard dogs (they’re more likely to greet an intruder with a happy wiggle), but fantastic family pets. It’s important to note that their deep love for their people can lead to separation anxiety if they’re left alone for extended periods. They are not dogs who do well in isolation; they need to be an integral part of the family unit to truly flourish.

Is a Cavachon Right For Your Family & Lifestyle?

Choosing a dog is a lifelong commitment. The Cavachon’s wonderful nature makes them a great fit for many, but their specific needs mean they aren’t for everyone. Here is an honest assessment to help you decide.

A Cavachon is an ideal companion for:

First-time dog owners: Their agreeable nature and intelligence make them relatively easy to train.

Families with children: Their gentle and patient demeanor makes them wonderful playmates for respectful kids.

Seniors and singles: They provide loving companionship and have manageable exercise needs.

  • Apartment or condo dwellers: Their small size and relatively low energy levels make them well-suited for smaller living spaces, provided they get daily walks.

You might want to reconsider a Cavachon if:

You work long hours or travel frequently: Their deep attachment can lead to significant separation anxiety and destructive behaviors if left alone too often.

You’re on a very tight budget: Their grooming needs require regular professional appointments, which is an ongoing expense.

You’re looking for a rugged, high-endurance hiking partner: While they enjoy a good walk, they aren’t built for strenuous, long-distance adventures.

You want a completely hands-off dog: They require daily interaction, consistent training, and regular grooming to be happy and healthy.

Caring for Your Cavachon: Needs & Recommendations

Providing the right care is the foundation of a long and happy life with your Cavachon. Here’s what you need to know to keep them thriving.

Diet & Nutrition

A Cavachon will do best on a high-quality, small-breed specific dog food. These formulas are designed with smaller kibble and are nutritionally balanced for the higher metabolism of small dogs. Puppies should be fed 3-4 small meals per day, transitioning to two meals per day as they reach adulthood. Monitor their weight closely; their Cavalier heritage can predispose them to weight gain, which puts extra stress on their joints. Always provide fresh, clean water.

Exercise Requirements

While they love to cuddle, Cavachons still need daily exercise to stay healthy and happy. A 20-30 minute daily walk, combined with some indoor or backyard playtime, is usually sufficient. It’s crucial to remember that mental stimulation is just as important as physical activity. Engaging them with puzzle toys, learning new tricks, and playing games like hide-and-seek will keep their sharp minds occupied and prevent boredom.

Grooming

This is a key area of Cavachon care. Their soft, wavy coat is low-shedding but prone to matting if not maintained.

  • Brushing: Daily brushing is essential to prevent tangles and mats from forming. A slicker brush and a metal comb are your best tools.
  • Bathing: Bathe your Cavachon every 4-6 weeks or as needed, using a gentle, moisturizing dog shampoo.
  • Professional Grooming: Most owners opt for professional grooming every 4-6 weeks to keep their coat trimmed and manageable in a “puppy cut” or “teddy bear” style.
  • Tear Stains: Cavachons can be prone to reddish-brown tear stains. Gently wipe the area under their eyes daily with a damp cloth or a vet-approved eye-wipe to keep the area clean and minimize staining.
  • Nails & Ears: Trim their nails monthly and check their ears weekly for signs of infection, cleaning them as needed.
Training & Socialization

Start training and socialization the day you bring your puppy home. Cavachons are intelligent and eager to please, but their Bichon side can sometimes manifest as a stubborn streak. Use positive reinforcement techniques—treats, praise, and toys—for the best results. Early socialization is critical. Expose your puppy to various sights, sounds, people, and other vaccinated dogs in a positive and controlled manner. This will help them grow into a well-adjusted, confident adult who isn’t fearful or anxious. House training can sometimes take a bit of patience, so consistency and a regular potty schedule are your keys to success.

Health & Lifespan: What to Expect

Cavachons generally enjoy a healthy lifespan of 10 to 15 years. As a hybrid breed, they can benefit from “hybrid vigor,” but they can also be susceptible to the genetic health conditions common in both the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and the Bichon Frise.

Responsible breeders, like those in the PuppyGuyz network, perform extensive health screening on their breeding dogs to minimize the risk of passing these conditions on.

Some potential issues to be aware of include:

  • Mitral Valve Disease (MVD): A common heart condition in Cavaliers.
  • Patellar Luxation: Dislocation of the kneecap.
  • Syringomyelia (SM): A serious neurological condition affecting the spinal cord, common in Cavaliers.
  • Cushing’s Disease: A hormonal disorder.
  • Atopic Dermatitis: Skin allergies that can cause itching and irritation.
  • Cataracts & Eye Issues: Regular vet check-ups can help monitor eye health.

Choosing a puppy from a breeder who provides health clearances and a comprehensive health guarantee is the single best way to ensure you’re getting a healthy companion.

The History of the Cavachon: From Designer Dog to Your Home

Cavachon puppy,nose to the ground, enjoying sniffing on his walk

The story of the Cavachon began in North America in the late 1990s, born out of the “designer dog” movement. The goal was specific and clear: to create a small, friendly companion dog with a low-shedding coat, combining the best traits of two beloved breeds.
Breeders carefully selected the sweet, gentle-natured Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and the intelligent, playful, and more hypoallergenic Bichon Frise. The resulting crossbreed was an immediate success. The Cavachon quickly gained popularity for its winning personality, manageable size, and family-friendly nature. While not recognized as a purebred by major kennel clubs, their status as a premier companion dog is undisputed by the thousands of families who adore them.

Meet Our Available Cavachon Puppies

You’ve done the research and decided a Cavachon is the perfect fit for you. The next step is the most exciting one! Below you can browse our gallery of beautiful, healthy Cavachon puppies from our network of pre-screened, ethical breeders. Each puppy is waiting for their forever home.

Rosie female cavapoo
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Cavapoo – Rosie

$2,300.00
Duke Male Siberian Husky
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Siberian Husky – Duke

$2,300.00
Betty Siberian Husky Female
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Siberian Husky – Betty

$2,300.00
fern Female German Shepherd
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German Shepherd – Fern

$2,300.00
Rory Male German Shepherd
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German Shepherd – Rory

$2,300.00
Daisy female Labrador Retriever
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Labrador Retriever – Daisy

$2,300.00
Harry male Labrador Retriever
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Labrador Retriever – Harry

$2,300.00
Isabella female Labrador Retriever
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Labrador Retriever – Isabella

$2,300.00
View all Available Puppies

Find a Cavachon Near You

PuppyGuyz is proud to offer our safe and reliable nationwide home delivery service, bringing your new best friend right to your door. We serve families all across the country, including in these major states:

Looking for a Cavachon in your area? We deliver healthy, well-socialized puppies to families across the United States. Explore our available puppies by state to find the perfect addition to your family:

Pennsylvania

Ohio

New York

California

Florida

Texas

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Your Comprehensive Cavachon FAQ

We’ve compiled and answered the most common questions about Cavachons to ensure you have all the information you need in one place.

What is a Cavachon?

A Cavachon is a “designer” or hybrid dog breed, resulting from a cross between a purebred Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a purebred Bichon Frise. They are bred specifically for their companionable temperament and low-shedding coats.

How big do Cavachons get?

Typically, an adult Cavachon stands 12-13 inches tall at the shoulder and weighs between 15 and 25 pounds. Their final size can vary slightly depending on the size of their parents.

Are Cavachons truly hypoallergenic?

While no dog is 100% hypoallergenic, Cavachons are an excellent choice for individuals with mild to moderate allergies. Their Bichon Frise heritage gives them a low-shedding coat that produces significantly less dander—the primary allergen—than most other breeds.

Are Cavachons good with kids and other pets?

Yes, they are exceptionally good with children and other pets. Their gentle, patient nature makes them wonderful companions for kids, and their sociable demeanor means they usually get along famously with other dogs and even cats, especially when socialized from a young age.

Do Cavachons bark a lot?

Cavachons are not known for being excessive barkers. They will typically bark to alert you when someone is at the door, but they are generally quiet dogs. If a Cavachon is barking excessively, it may be a sign of boredom or separation anxiety that needs to be addressed.

How much exercise does a Cavachon need?

Their exercise needs are low to moderate. A daily walk of about 30 minutes, plus some indoor or outdoor playtime, is usually enough to keep them physically healthy. Remember to include mental exercise with puzzle toys and training to keep them mentally sharp.

How long can a Cavachon be left alone?

Due to their strong attachment to their families, Cavachons should not be left alone for more than a few hours at a time. They can develop severe separation anxiety. If your household is empty for 8+ hours a day, this is likely not the right breed for you.

What is the average price of a Cavachon puppy?

The price of a well-bred Cavachon puppy can vary based on location, breeder reputation, and the puppy’s lineage. The cost reflects the significant investment a reputable breeder makes in health screening parent dogs, providing top-tier veterinary care, high-quality nutrition, and proper socialization for the puppies. It’s an investment in a healthy, well-adjusted family member.