Cavachon

29 August 2023

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Let’s talk about… Cavachons: what are they?

Cavachons are a charming and affectionate small dog breed that is a cross between a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a Bichon Frise.
They are known for their adorable appearance, with soft, curly or wavy coats and expressive eyes.
Cavachons are a relatively new breed and have gained popularity for their loving nature and suitability for families and individuals alike.
They have an average height of 30-33 cm and weigh around 5-9 kg.
The life expectancy of Cavachons is typically between 12 and 15 years.

Cavachon Exercise Needs 2/5 Grooming Ease 3/5 Trainability 4/5

What is the temperament of Cavachons like?

Cavachons are known for their friendly and sociable nature.
They are typically good-natured, gentle, and get along well with people of all ages, including children.
Cavachons are often described as loving and affectionate dogs that enjoy being the centre of attention.
They are often highly sociable and thrive on human companionship. These dogs are usually outgoing and make friends easily, both with other dogs and with strangers.
Cavachons have a moderate energy level and are adaptable to different living situations.
While they enjoy active playtime and walks, they can also be content with calmer activities and indoor play.
They are generally well-suited for apartment living as long as they receive regular outdoor exercise and mental stimulation.

Doggy member Alfie, the Cavachon wearing his bright blue Equafleece on a frosty morning walk — Doggy member Alfie, the Cavachon

How much exercise do Cavachons need?

Cavachons require regular exercise to keep them physically and mentally stimulated. They should have approximately 30 to 45 minutes of exercise per day.
This can be achieved through daily walks, playtime in a securely fenced yard, and interactive games.
They also enjoy participating in activities such as obedience training, agility, or dog sports that provide mental stimulation and help strengthen the bond with their owners.
When it comes to Cavachon puppies, it's important to provide age-appropriate exercise.
Puppies have developing joints and muscles and should not be overexerted.
Short, controlled play sessions and brief walks are suitable for young Cavachon puppies.
As they grow older, their exercise levels can gradually increase.
Your vet can advise on your individual pooch’s exercise needs.

Doggy member Milo, the Cavachon, sitting on a large rock proudly — Doggy member Milo, the Cavachon

Do Cavachons need a lot of grooming?

Cavachons have a coat that is typically soft, curly, and low-shedding.
Their coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting and keep it looking its best.
Daily brushing is recommended to remove any tangles or debris.
Occasional professional grooming is usually necessary to trim the coat and maintain a neat appearance.
Like any dog, regular tooth brushing with a dog-specific toothpaste twice daily is ideal. If you can’t manage that often, just do it as often as you can.

Doggy member Teddy, the Cavachon, is lying in the grass with his training lead attached to his collar — Doggy member Teddy, the Cavachon

Are Cavachons easy to train?

Cavachons are generally intelligent and eager to please, which makes them trainable dogs.
They respond well to positive reinforcement techniques, such as praise, treats, and rewards.
Cavachons enjoy spending time with their owners and are motivated by their affection and approval.
Training sessions should be kept engaging, short, and focused to hold their attention.
Early socialisation is important for Cavachons to ensure they grow up to be well-rounded and well-behaved dogs.
Exposing them to various people, animals, and environments from a young age helps them develop confidence and good social skills. Basic obedience training, including commands like sit, stay, and come, is essential for their safety and convenience.

Doggy member Thor, the Cavachon, smiling happily on his evening walkies — Doggy member Thor, the Cavachon

What do Cavachons eat?

Cavachons should be fed a balanced and nutritious diet appropriate for their size, age, and activity level. High-quality commercial dog food formulated for small breeds is generally a good choice.
The recommended amount of food will depend on factors such as their age, weight, metabolism, and exercise routine.
It's important to monitor their weight and adjust the portion sizes accordingly to prevent overfeeding.
Cavachon puppies have specific dietary needs for growth and development. They should be fed a specially formulated small-breed puppy food until they reach approximately 12 months of age.
Most puppies should be fed 3-4 times a day until they are 6 months old, then twice daily.
Consult with your vet for specific dietary recommendations for your Cavachon.

Are Cavachons healthy?

Cavachons are generally healthy dogs, but like any breed, they may be prone to certain health conditions. It's important to be aware of these potential health concerns and take proactive measures to keep your Cavachon in good health. Some of the health issues that may affect Cavachons include:

Bones and Joints

Luxating patella - this is when a dog’s kneecap moves out of where it should normally be

Dental

Periodontal Disease - a buildup of plaque and tartar on a dog’s teeth leading to inflammation, infection and tooth loss

Eyes

Entropion - this is where the eyelids roll in, causing eyelashes to rub onto the surface of the eye

Heart

Mitral Valve Disease (MVD) - a common heart condition in small breed dogs that affects the heart's valves, leading to progressive heart failure

Skin

Atopy - when the immune system overreacts to an allergen and results in skin irritation.

This list is by no means comprehensive. If you have any concerns about the health of your dog or if you want to discuss further if a Cavachon is right for you, consult with your vet.

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Information on this page should never replace advice given by your veterinarian. Potential health issues presented are given as a guide only and are not meant to be comprehensive. If you ever have any concerns about your dog’s health contact your local vet.