A soft, silky coat of medium to long length that falls in waves or loose curls. It sheds only lightly, which is part of why the cross was made.123
Colourswhiteapricotcreamtanblackbrownwhite and tanwhite and blacktricolour231
Personality what they are like
A sweet-natured, cheerful little dog that loves company and likes to be close to its people. It is usually calm indoors and not a big barker, yet playful when games start. Bright and keen to please, it tends to pick up training quickly.231
Daily activity how busy a day looks
Moderate. Around 30-45 minutes a day, ideally split into two outings, plus play and small brain games. Many enjoy fetch and even dog sports.312
Grooming and care the hands-on bits
Brush two to three times a week to keep the soft coat tangle-free, with a professional trim every 6-8 weeks. Bathe monthly or as needed, and keep up with nails, ears and teeth.231
Home where they are happiest
Adapts well to flats or houses thanks to its compact size and calm manner. Suits families, older owners and first-time dog keepers, as long as it is not left alone for long periods.231
Food basics what goes in the bowl
A complete, good-quality food made for small breeds, in measured portions to keep a trim shape.3
Company who they like around
Very people-oriented and dislikes long spells alone. Usually gentle with children and gets on with other dogs and cats when socialised young.123
The story where it all began
The Cavachon is a young designer cross. According to Hill's, a Virginia breeder first paired a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel with a Bichon Frise on purpose in 1996, hoping for a sweet companion with a low-shedding coat. The cross caught on through the late 1990s and beyond.12
Fun facts for the dinner table
1
The first planned Cavachon litter is credited to a breeder in Virginia in 1996.1
2
Their calm, friendly nature makes many Cavachons well suited to therapy dog work.2
3
Both parent breeds come from long lines of lap dogs, with the Cavalier from Britain and the Bichon from the Mediterranean.3
Where the name comes from the story behind it
The name 'Cavachon' is a portmanteau of its parent breeds: the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and the Bichon Frise.1
This morning I woke up and stretched on my cozy bed, then trotted to the kitchen to greet my humans. After a short walk in the park, I played fetch with my favorite squeaky ball. Back home, I curled up on the sofa while my person read a book. Later, we practiced a new trick and I got a treat. In the evening, I snuggled close during movie time. It was a perfect day full of love and fun.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
Recognised by the official bits
The Royal Kennel Club
Crossbreeds are not recognised as pedigree breeds, but they can be registered on the Activity Register and take part in agility, obedience and similar events.4
American Canine Association and designer breed registries
Recognised by the American Canine Association and by designer breed registries, according to Hill's.1
The care rhythm a typical week and year
A typical home-care rhythm for a Cavachon. A starting point, not a vet's advice.
Brushingevery week
Bathevery 8 weeks
Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
Ear checkevery 2 weeks
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upevery year
Treats they will love homemade and simple
Cavachon tip
Cavachons gain weight easily, so measure meals and keep treats under 10% of daily calories. Because they often have sensitive stomachs, stick to a consistent small-breed diet and avoid rich human food.
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
Owner questions the things everyone asks
How often should I feed my Cavachon, and at what times?
Feed your Cavachon twice a day, ideally at set times like morning and evening. For puppies, three to four smaller meals are better. Always follow the food label and your vet's advice for portions.35
What should a Cavachon eat, and which foods are dangerous?
Feed a complete, good-quality small-breed dog food in measured portions. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onion, garlic, xylitol, and many others listed by the ASPCA. Always check with your vet if unsure.36
How often should I bathe a Cavachon?
Bathe your Cavachon about once a month, or every 8 weeks as Furry Diary's starting plan suggests. More frequent baths are fine if your dog gets dirty, but avoid over-bathing.2317Pet Wiki plan
How often does a Cavachon need brushing?
Brush your Cavachon two to three times a week to keep the soft coat tangle-free. Daily brushing is even better for a long silky coat, but 2-3 times a week works well.2317Pet Wiki plan
How do I trim a Cavachon's nails, and how often?
Trim your Cavachon's nails about every 4 weeks, or sooner if you hear them clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time and stop before the pink quick to avoid pain. If unsure, ask a vet or groomer.2317Pet Wiki plan
How much exercise does a Cavachon need?
Your Cavachon needs about 30 to 45 minutes of exercise daily, best split into two walks. Add some play and brain games to keep them happy and healthy.312Pet Wiki plan
How do I look after a Cavachon's teeth and ears?
Brush your Cavachon's teeth two to three times a week using dog toothpaste, and check ears every two weeks for dirt or redness. Never poke anything into the ear canal. Daily tooth brushing is ideal.2317Pet Wiki plan
How long does a Cavachon live?
A Cavachon typically lives between 10 and 17 years, bringing many happy years of companionship.231
Is a Cavachon good with children and other pets?
Yes, Cavachons are usually gentle with children and get along well with other dogs and cats if socialised from puppyhood. They are sweet-natured and love being part of the family.123
Can a Cavachon be left alone?
Cavachons dislike being left alone for long periods because they are very people-oriented. They do best when someone is home most of the day, or with a pet sitter for short absences.123
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Bichon Frise
Cavapoo
Cavapoochon
Poochon