Cavachon
Also known as Bichon King Charles
United States, Doodles and designer crosses
- Size
- Small
- Height
- 25–33 cm
- Weight
- 5–9 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–15 yrs
- Gentle
- Cheerful
- Cuddly
- Social
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the Cavachon
The Cavachon is a cross between a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a Bichon Frise. It is a small, soft-coated dog, often white with apricot or tan markings. Its coat can be fluffy like a Bichon's or flatter like a Cavalier's.
Temperament
Typically gentle, cheerful and very affectionate, Cavachons usually welcome visitors and get on well with other pets. They dislike being left alone for long periods.
Exercise
Moderate needs: a couple of walks a day and some play are plenty. They are happy to fit in with a quieter household as long as they have company.
Grooming
Brush every couple of days and have the coat trimmed regularly. Bichon-type coats shed less, but the amount varies and no Cavachon is guaranteed hypoallergenic.
Care & wellbeing
The Cavalier parent should be screened for heart disease and syringomyelia, both common in that breed. Bichons are prone to skin allergies, so watch for itching or paw licking. A cough, fast breathing at rest or neck sensitivity are reasons to see a vet.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 7 kg adult- Water
- 280 ml–420 ml
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 480 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 60–90 min
- a day
- Grooming
- Brushing most days
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Cavachon
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
Cavachons were first bred in the United States in the 1990s and quickly gained a following in North America and the UK. They were developed as companion dogs with a soft, lower-shedding coat. Breeding is unregulated, so quality varies.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Mitral valve disease
- Syringomyelia
- Patellar luxation
- Skin allergies
- Eye conditions such as cataracts
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Heart examination of the Cavalier parent
- MRI screening for syringomyelia in the Cavalier parent
- Patella check
- Eye examination
Not every Cavachon is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
Lower than average- Smaller food bills and medicine doses
- Regular professional grooming adds up
- A 12–15 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Cavachon right for you?
Could suit
- Owners who can manage a good walk or two each day
- First-time owners prepared to train consistently
- Smaller homes, as long as daily exercise needs are met
Think twice if
- You don't have time for frequent brushing or the cost of professional grooming
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a Cavachon get?
Adult Cavachons typically stand about 25–33 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 5–9 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Cavachons live?
Typically 12–15 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Cavachon need?
As a guide, around 60–90 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Cavachon need?
Brushing most days. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Cavachons easy to train?
Usually quick to learn with reward-based training.
Do Cavachons shed?
A little. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Cavachons good with children?
They usually do well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Cavachon live in a flat?
Usually, yes — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Cavachons have?
The breed can be prone to mitral valve disease, syringomyelia, patellar luxation. Not every Cavachon is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- United States
- Type
- Doodles and designer crosses
- Recognition
- A crossbreed, not recognised by kennel clubs