Cavachon: All You Need to Know About Cavalier Bichon Mix

Last Updated on April 22, 2023

The Cavachon is a crossbreed between a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a Bichon Frise, also known as the Cavalier Bichon mix. It’s characterized as small to medium in size, measuring 12 to 13 inches (30 to 33 cm) tall and weighing around 15 to 35 pounds (7 to 16 kg). The average lifespan of the Cavachon is around 10 to 15 years.

Cavalier Bichon mixes are great family pets as they are fun-loving, friendly, and playful, especially with kids. These little fluffy dogs are so clingy and love to cuddle up in your lap. If you’re planning to own a Cavachon puppy, you can get it between $700 to $800 from a reputable breeder.

Brown and white Cavachon puppy with its head on the floor
The Cavachon Puppy

We will cover all you need to know about the Cavachon designer dog breed. From its origin, temperament, diet, exercise, and grooming needs, to its common health issues. Read our complete guide and see if the Cavalier Bichon mix is the right companion for you and your family.

The Cavachon at a Glance

We’ve put together a table below to give you a quick overview of the Cavachon.

Breed Summary Cavachon Quick Facts
Breed Purpose Companion Dog, Therapy Dog
Breed Size Small-to-Medium
Height 12 to 13 inches (30 to 33 cm)
Weight 15 to 35 lbs (7 to 16 kg)
Coat Type Medium-length (some are longer-coated);
Wavy, Silky, Soft; Single- or double-coated
Shedding Low
Most Popular Coat Colors Solid-colored or parti-colored
Lifespan 10 to 15 years
Temperament Fun-loving, Friendly, Spunky
Energy Moderate to High
Exercise Needs 30 minutes per day
Average Price $700 to $800 (Non-show)
$1,000 to $6,000 (Quality)

What’s a Cavachon dog?

The Cavachon is the result of crossing a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a Bichon Frise. One of the most popular hybrids today, the Cavalier-Bichon Frise mix was first seen in the late 1990s.

American breeders Gleneden Cavachons claimed they bred the first litter of these designer dogs in 1996. More than a decade later, they’ve become sought-after pets in the country.

This American mixed breed even made its way to the hearts of the British people. A UK television network, ITV, has created a poll for Britain’s Top 100 Dogs of 2019, and the Cavachon ranked 15th out of 100 breeds.

What does an ‘F1 Cavachon’ mean?

cavachon puppies with different looks
Source: Gumtree Australia / Pinterest

An F1 Cavachon is the first-generation crossbreed between the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and the Bichon Frise.

Cavalier-Bichon puppies can also have two first-generation Cavachons for parents. These puppies are classified as F2 Cavachons.

Breeding two F2 Cavachons results in F3 Cavalier and Bichon hybrids.

You can also get an F1B Bichon-Cavalier, which is the offspring of a first-generation Cavachon and either a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel or a Bichon Frise.

F1B, F2, and F3 generations will be more unpredictable than the F1s. In their usual Cavachon litter size of 2 to 6 puppies, appearance, size, and temperament will vary for each puppy – as if they don’t belong in the same litter.

What do Cavachon dogs look like?

Because Cavachons are a crossbreed, their appearance will vary from each other. One may look more like a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel while the other gets its looks from the Bichon Frise.

Most of these hybrids are small-to-medium-sized with a broad back and chest. They have a sturdy body with strong-boned legs.

This fluff ball has a medium-length coat and a curly and bushy tail. Nested on top of their round head are soft and floppy ears framing their face.

Their round and dark brown eyes match their tiny black nose.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Bichon Frise mix in a harness laying on the ground
Source: @lucy.the.cavachon / IG

Cavachons have a soft and silky coat that is usually wavy, depending on which parent they takes after.

They will have smooth and straight hair if they take more after the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, while having more Bichon blood makes their hair more dense and curly.

The coat of a Cavachon can be solid-colored or parti-colored. Since a Bichon Frise has a dominant color of white, many of these crossbreeds tend to have the same color on them.

Their other coat colors are tan, apricot, ruby or red, black or a combination of two to three colors. Their usual patterns or markings are black, apricot or tan.

How big do Cavachons get?

On average, a full-grown Cavachon has a height of 12 to 13 inches (30 to 33 cm) and a weight of 15 to 35 lbs (7 to 16 kg).

Since there are no standards on their size, these hybrids can come in a variety of sizes that are outside the average. As we’ve mentioned, though, most of these crossbreeds tend to be on the small side.

Look at this video of an adorable Cavachon puppy barking at her toys:

FAQs on the Cavachon’s temperament

Similar to their appearance and size, the same unpredictability applies to the Cavachon’s personality.

Their temperament will depend on their upbringing, their training, and the traits they inherit from their parents.

Will Cavachons make great family dogs?

Yes! Being an adaptable dog, they will fit in anywhere and in any family.

Their small size makes them portable while their sturdy body allows them to participate in sports and play with younger or older children.

The good-natured traits they inherit from the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel makes them trustworthy around younger kids. However, it’s still best to watch over them to make sure they don’t hurt each other.

Even if the Cavalier-Bichon cross is less sensitive than other small designer breeds, we don’t want the dog or child to sustain injuries during playtime.

With playful parents, the friendly Cavachon also gets along great with older kids. This fun-loving and lively dog will want to go with them to the park or play fetch in the backyard.

(And don’t worry if you don’t have a backyard, these dogs do well even in small apartments.)

Cavachon in a harness standing and being held

Can Cavachons be left alone?

These hybrids are adaptable, but leaving them alone could trigger separation anxiety and result in destructive behavior.

These loving dogs want your attention and companionship. They will love cuddling on the couch and following you around wherever you go.

They may demand constant affection, but can you really resist that face?

Are Cavachons aggressive?

These hybrids are the complete opposite of aggressive!

They’re friendly dogs with the gentle character of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, and most of them are mild-mannered like the Bichon Frise.

Because of their calm personality and even temperament, many of these crossbreeds even become great therapy dogs.

Are these crossbreeds excessive barkers?

If you live in an apartment or live close to neighbors, the Cavachon is perfect for you. They aren’t yappy and they don’t bark as much as other dogs, so noise shouldn’t be a problem.

Despite inheriting a friendly nature from their parents, these hybrids may still growl at strangers, but only when they sense a threat to their family.

Cavalier-Bichon mix standing outdoors with a French Bulldog
Source: @therah / IG

Will they get along with other dogs and pets?

If you have other dogs and pets, the Cavachon is a perfect addition to your family. They are sociable and sweet-tempered like the Bichon Frise and get along with anyone or any dog.

There are instances, however, when they chase small animals because of their prey drive.

They can tolerate other pets if they grew up with them, but you will still need to provide socialization to be sure.

How to take care of your Cavachon

These dogs are relatively easy to care for compared to other small crossbreeds.

You may have to spend a little more time brushing their fluffy fur, but these hybrids generally suffer from fewer health problems. Plus, their small size means they eat less food.

The Cavachon’s grooming needs

Great news! Cavalier-Bichon dogs are low-maintenance and require less grooming compared to other designer breeds. Use a brush every other day to keep their coat shiny and prevent it from matting and tangling.

Bathe your Bichon-Cavalier mix when needed or when he starts to smell. Be careful not to give frequent baths, as that can dry out their soft coat and strip the coat of its natural oils.

Cavalier-Bichon Frise cross wrapped in a towel on the floor
Source: @buddy.and.pal / IG

You can trim the hair the genital area to keep your dog clean and reduce the need for baths.

You may notice globs on your Cavachon’s eyes and tear stains on their adorable face. Use a moist towel or cloth to remove stains and discharge from the fur around your dog’s eyes.

Since these dogs are also prone to ear infections, clean their ears at least once a week. Trim the hair near their ears and eyes every two months to reduce the risk of an eye or ear infection.

Check your Cavachon’s nails at least once a week. Don’t forget to trim its nails when needed; long nails can make it painful for your dog to walk around.

You can take your dog to a professional groomer twice a year or more often if you want them to maintain a certain look.

Most owners love the Puppy Clip or Teddy Bear Cut on their Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Bichon Frise mix to give them a neater appearance. With this cut, the coat on the body will be shorter than the hair on the face and tail.

Do Cavachons shed a lot of fur?

Cavachon sitting in a basket with flowers

Breeders consider Cavachons as moderate to low shedders, depending on which coat they inherit from their parent.

If they get the Bichon Frise’s hair, they will be low shedders.

On the other hand, having more of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel genes will make them moderate shedders.

Since the Bichon Frise is a hypoallergenic breed, some Cavachons can be considered hypoallergenic as well.

Their low-shedding coats make them a great pet for people suffering from allergies to dander.

The proper diet for the Cavachon

Make sure your dog eats high-quality food rich in nutrients.

It’s best to feed your adult Cavachon 30 to 40 calories per pound of body weight. One cup of dog food a day should be enough for this crossbreed.

Divide this amount into 2 to 3 small meals and adjust your dog’s calorie intake depending on its current weight and activity level.

If your Cavalier and Bichon mix is overweight, make sure it gets more exercise and playtime and reduce the treats or snacks you give them.

When your dog refuses to eat, try changing their kibble. You can also consult your vet on the best food for your pet.

Your Bichon-Cavalier cross may develop a habit of eating poop, a behavior known as coprophagia. While this is completely normal behavior for dogs, you can discourage the habit by using ‘stop’ and ‘no’ commands.

You may also catch your dog eating grass since it is a common Bichon Frise behavior. If you notice them going for the grass, distract them with toys or use the ‘heel’ command.

How much exercise does a Cavachon need?

Cavalier-Bichon Frise mixes are active dogs but they do not require much exercise. They are content with a 30-minute walk or playtime every day.

If you’re looking for a companion on hikes or a long walk, this is the perfect crossbreed. They also enjoy going for a swim in the pool, lake, or beach – you can definitely bring them along on your family vacations!

Having a moderate-to-high energy level, the Bichon-Cavalier cross is ideal even for less active owners. These hybrids will easily adjust to your lifestyle.

cavachon muddy from the outdoors
Source: @cheshirecanines / IG

Are Cavachons easy to train?

They’re easier to train compared to other dogs because they are intelligent and curious – characteristics they inherit from both parents breeds.

Be consistent and make each training session quick and fun. They will respond better if you praise and encourage them; try not to give too many treats as rewards since these crossbreeds are prone to obesity.

You have to start with basic commands, housebreaking and potty training, and socialization, which will be easy since these dogs love to please their owners.

These are all essential to building and settling the unpredictable Cavachon personality, and will also help solve common house-training and behavior problems.

Check out this well-trained Cavalier-Bichon mix:

Since these hybrids sweet-tempered creatures, raising your voice and being harsh with them will get you nowhere. On the other hand, it will be harder to train and discipline your Cavalier-Bichon puppy if you go too easy on him.

Find a middle ground – be firm and set yourself as the alpha but don’t forget to be loving and gentle with their training.

How to stop Cavachon puppies from biting

Biting is typical puppy behavior, so you will have to show your Cavachon pup that human flesh is delicate.

When it puts its mouth on you, act as if it is painful even if it doesn’t hurt as much. Once your Bichon-Cavalier hybrid stops this behavior, make sure to praise him.

Are Cavachons a healthy crossbreed?

Compared to other designer dogs, the Cavachon tend to suffer from fewer health problems.

However, they are at risk of genetic diseases such as:

  • Joint problems: Hip dysplasia and Legg-Calve Perthes Disease
  • Heart conditions: Mitral Endocardiosis and Heart Murmur
  • Skin problems: Atopic dermatitis and flea allergies
  • Eye conditions: Cataracts, Corneal Dystrophy, and Eye Ulcerations
  • Syringomyelia
  • Liver Shunts
  • Thrombocytopenia
  • Anemia
  • Cushing’s Disease

If you notice your Cavachon frequently scratching itself or licking and biting its paws, it may have skin allergies or dry skin. Consult your vet for possible treatments.

Ask the breeder about the history and health of your hybrid’s parents, since this information can help you prepare for diseases your dog is most likely to inherit.

Make regular visits to the veterinarian to keep your pet in the best health possible. This way, your Cavachon will enjoy an average lifespan of 10 to 15 years.

Comparing the Cavachon to other hybrids

It is common to cross the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel with other purebreds beside the Bichon Frise.

The resulting designer dogs are similar to the Cavachon, but they have their differences as well.

Cavachon vs. Cavapoo

Cavapoos are a mix of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a Poodle. They have higher energy levels and will require more exercise.

Cavapoos may also have more health problems and a shorter lifespan. Cavalier-Bichon mixes, on the other hand, tend to be easier to train due to their longer attention span.

portrait of a white cavapoo
Cavapoo

Cavachon vs. Cockapoo

The result of combining a Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle, Cockapoos have a longer lifespan than the Cavachon.

Both designer dogs are minimal shedders, but Cockapoos tend to shed more. Some Cocker Spaniel-Poodle mixes may also be more aggressive and territorial.

white cockapoo
Cockapoo

Cavachon vs. Poochon

Poochons are a mix between a Poodle and a Bichon Frise. They’re higher-maintenance than the Cavachon because of the curly hair they inherit from the Poodle.

Cavalier-Bichon mixes tend to suffer from more health problems than the Poochon, which also has a longer life expectancy.

poochon looking at camera
Poochon – Source: @denibonet / IG

How much do Cavachons cost?

Because people love these friendly designer dogs and they are in high demand, expect to pay thousands of bucks for a Cavachon puppy.

You can get this fun-loving and sweet dog at prices that range anywhere from $700 to $6,000.

You may find some breeders who will have Cavachon puppies for sale at $700 each, but you have to be careful when the price is too low. You might be buying from a scammer or an unethical breeder.

A Bichon Frise-Cavalier puppy should have a shiny and clean coat, look at you with bright eyes, and have a curious personality.

Before making a purchase, try to get information about the puppy and its parents. Ask the breeder for the parents’ health records, along with the pup’s.

Responsible breeders will also ask questions about you and your lifestyle to ensure their puppies are going to the best home possible.

We’ve collected some reputable breeders who can provide you with the perfect Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Bichon Frise mix for your family.

Cavachon breeders in Virginia

Gleneden Cavachons have been in business since 1996. You can check their available puppies online or visit them at Berryville, Clarke County by appointment.

Some of their puppies are crate and leash-trained. Pups can go home with their new owner when they turn five months and have received their vaccinations.

Breeders of Cavachons in Ohio

Foxglove Farm raises their puppies to be loyal, loving, and easy to train. They sell puppies that have already received basic training and crate training.

The price of their puppies is between $4,500 to $7,500.

Breeders in Massachusetts

Cavachon Monarchy is a breeder who follows the expert guidance of former breeder Timshell Farm. Timshell Farm produced litters of these hybrids for 15 years and was one of the oldest specialty breeders in the US.

Cavachon Monarchy sells their puppies for $3,500 and offers $1,500 for a 2-week training of your puppy.

Breeders in Tennessee

Cavachon By Design is family breeder located between two Tennessee mountains. Dog lovers often adopt most of the puppies even before they appear on the website, so contact this breeder as soon as you can.

Their puppies cost between $3,850 to $4,950 each.

Cavachon sitting outdoors among leaves during fall
Source: @cassandra_the_cavachon / IG

Rescuing a Cavachon dog

If you don’t mind taking in an older dog, you can also opt for Cavachon rescue and adoption. Check nearby shelter and rescue centers for Bichon-Cavalier mixes looking for a new owner.

Keep in mind that it would be harder to start training Cavalier-Bichon hybrids when they are older. You may be able to adopt adult dogs that are already trained, though.

Check out these shelters for Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Bichon mixes available for adoption:

  • Small Paws Rescue
  • National Mill Dog Rescue
  • Florida Little Dog Rescue Group

Are you prepared to give a Cavachon a loving home?

The Cavachon is one of the best canine companions a family can have. This sweet and gentle dog can get along great with your kids and other pets.

These Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Bichon Frise mixes will adapt to your lifestyle, whether you’re an active, outdoorsy person or more of a couch potato.

As they adjust to your habits, though, don’t forget to be sensitive about their needs as well. Your Cavalier-Bichon cross will need regular grooming to keep its coat healthy and tangle-free.

These dogs are easy to train, but you will have to use short, engaging training sessions to ensure that your pup can follow commands.

Already own one of these adorable crossbreeds? We would love to hear about your experience. Tell us about your life with your adorable dog in the comments section below.

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