Key Points
-
The cavachon is a popular mixed-breed dog from a combination of Cavalier King Charles spaniel and bichon frise parents.
-
Cavachons’ physical characteristics vary, but they are lively and intelligent family companions.
-
This guide provides comprehensive information about owning a cavachon.
The cavachon is a relatively new but increasingly popular mixed breed dog, made up of the Cavalier King Charles spaniel and the bichon frise. The cavachon has a silky, wavy coat of hair that comes in shades of white, apricot, cream, white with tan, black, or tri-color. Due to their mixed breeding, the physical characteristics of cavachons vary. The cavachon has a slight but sturdy, compact build, weighs between 15 and 35 pounds, and stands around 13” tall. With its small stature, the cavachon is considered a toy breed.
While the cavachon requires daily walks and mental stimulation like all dogs, they don’t require huge amounts of exercise. Walking your cavachon makes you happy. As Dr. Carri Westbarth et al. published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, “Dog walking is used to meet the emotional needs of the owner as well as the physical needs of the dog.” Thirty minutes of walking a day are enough for cavachons.
The cavachon is highly social and enjoys hanging out with their humans and cuddling in a welcoming lap. Known for their playful, friendly, and highly social nature, cavachons don’t enjoy being left alone. Cavachons are incredibly loyal to their humans and tend to be “velcro” dogs.
Cavachons need attention, and as long as they receive a good amount of it from their owner, the cavachons retain their happy demeanor. Laidback, gentle, and easy-going, cavachons do well in families with small children. Children must learn how to play with and handle cavachon puppies properly. Due to their small size, cavachons are fragile and easily injured during rough play.
Cavachon puppies should be socialized early. Though generally friendly, if not properly trained and socialized, the cavachon develops “small dog syndrome” and is barky and “yippy” to strangers. The cavachon is intelligent, and, because of their desire to please, are quick learners when it comes to training. Keep training sessions short and involve lots of positive reinforcement to be effective.
Cavachon Qualities
The cavachon is best suited for indoor life and doesn’t require lots of outdoor space (like a large yard), and is excellent for apartment living.
Cavachon coats are usually low-shedding and medium-length. Cavachons with long coats are less allergy-friendly. Your cavachon needs to be brushed a few times a week to avoid matting and tangling of their fur.
Cavachons make great dogs for novice dog owners and seniors with their easy-going nature and lower to mid-range energy levels. Easy to train and eager to learn, cavachons make excellent therapy dogs. They are natural at giving affection and sitting quietly on laps. If appropriately educated, the cavachon is a good therapy dog for nursing homes, hospices, and hospitals. They do well with adults or children with autism or anxiety disorders. The cavachon gets along well with other dogs and, in some instances, even cats!
Due to their low to medium activity levels, cavachons have a high potential for weight gain and must have their diet monitored closely. The average life expectancy of the cavachon is 10-15 years. Though the cavachon has genetic predispositions to certain illnesses including heart disease, they are generally a healthy dog breed.
The cavachon is a great dog for you if you enjoy having a constant companion, love having lots of cuddle time, and want a dog who does just as well in a large house as it does in a small apartment. If you want a dog that is okay being alone for many hours a day and is low maintenance in its grooming needs, the cavachon is not suitable for you.
Cavachon Care Package
-
$12.55 ($0.21 / Count)Buy Nowby Vet’s Best
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
03/08/2024 06:59 am GMT -
$28.99 ($0.32 / Count)Buy Now
by PetHonesty
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
03/08/2024 08:14 am GMT -
$44.55 ($0.99 / Count)Buy Now
by Ocu-GLO
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
03/08/2024 08:30 am GMT -
$20.08 ($2.51 / Fl Oz)Buy Now
by Virbac
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
03/08/2024 06:20 am GMT -
$22.80Buy on Amazon
by Bark&Spark
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
03/08/2024 08:59 am GMT -
$22.99 ($16.57 / lb)Buy Now
by VetIQ
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
03/08/2024 06:25 am GMT -
$26.99 ($0.30 / Count)Buy Now
by Natural Dog Company
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
03/08/2024 08:50 am GMT
History of the Cavachon
Compared to its parents, the King Charles Cavalier spaniel and the bichon frise, the cavachon is a relatively new dog breed. The bichon frise originated in the Mediterranean and is descended from a breed called barbets or water spaniels crossed with small white lapdogs. Four types of “barbichons” were created with this mix: the Havanese, Bolognese, Maltese, and Tenerife bichons. The Teneriffe Bichon got its name from the island where they were developed, the Canary Island of Tenerife. They later became known as the bichon frise. The bichon frise was prized by the Italian nobility and was included in the works of Italian artist Francisco Goya. The bichon was brought to the United States in 1955 and officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1971.
The Cavalier King Charles spaniel, The cavachon’s other parent, is the original toy spaniel. Loved for its gentle nature, the spaniel was a favorite among royalty, specifically King Charles II, who ruled over Britain in the late 1600s. The Cavalier King Charles spaniel made its way to North America in 1952 but was not recognized by the American Kennel Club until 1996.
As a cross-breed, or mixed-breed, the cavachon has likely existed unintentionally since both breed parents have been in the United States for some time. However, a dog breeder from Glendene Kennels in Virginia claims to be the first to have intentionally crossed a bichon frise and a Cavalier King Charles spaniel in 1996. The breeder’s goal was to create a low-allergy, small companion dog with a low propensity to health issues. The American Kennel Club doesn’t recognize the cavachon as a separate breed. The cavachon remains unclassified as a mixed-breed dog.
Breed Intelligence
The cavachon is bright and easy to train. They are eager to learn and please and cavachons do well with brief but often teaching. Keep training sessions short, as the cavachon is overwhelmed by too much information at once. Give your cavachon lots of praise and encouragement during your training sessions. Cavachons respond well to environments that are positive and fun.
Training
The cavachon is good at understanding and memorizing new cues. The cavachon adapts well to new environments and often does well moving from one place to another. Cavachons have the propensity to suffer from separation anxiety when not with their owner. When it comes to potty training cavachon puppies, patience and consistency are required. Be prepared to reward frequent potty trips outside in the first few weeks with your cavachon.
Cognitive Health
Cognitive health or cognition is comprised of your cavachon’s ability to acquire information, understand it, store it, and retrieve it. It’s directly connected to your cavachon’s intelligence, socialization, and memory function. As a result, cognitive health plays a vital role in your cavachon’s well-being.
Canine Cognitive Decline
The cavachon is not pre-disposed to cognitive health issues any more than any other dog breed. Many dogs of all breeds are at risk for cognitive health issues. Canine cognitive decline (CCD) or cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS), also known as dog dementia, is a degenerative disease that affects dogs much like Alzheimer’s and Dementia affect humans. Dogs age at different rates depending on breed and size. For example, a small dog like a cavachon is not considered a senior dog until it’s 7-10 years old. In contrast, a Great Dane is regarded as a senior at six years old. The cavachon, with a life expectancy of 10-15 years, is a small breed dog and therefore won’t show signs of CCD until later in life.
According to a study published in The Journal of Veterinary Medical Science, CCD affects 14-35% of all dogs. Dr. Makiko Ozawa et al. say “the results of the present study suggested that physical disturbances such as vision impairment, smell disturbance, tremor, swaying or falling and head ptosis are physical signs of CCD.” Symptoms of CCD in cavachons exhibit as fear of familiar people, increased anxiety, house soiling, disorientation, and increased marking. Your cavachon forgets commands they once knew.
If your cavachon is experiencing these symptoms, a vet visit is necessary for a proper diagnosis. Your vet determines any underlying causes and creates a care plan for your cavachon. This includes changes in diet and exercise, as well as changes you make around your home and in your cavachon’s daily routine.
Games to relieve stress
There are many fun and easy games to play with your cavachon to increase their overall cognitive health.
Hold a treat to your forehead or by your eye and ask your dog to look at you. Gradually transition the food to just a hand signal or verbal command. This basic training exercise not only teaches your dog to focus on you but also triggers a release of oxytocin in you and your dog. Oxytocin is called the “feel-good hormone” and is often exhibited in the parent-child bond. Oxytocin positively affects memory and cognitive health.
To keep your dog’s attention occasionally switch up the route you take when walking your cavachon. Like all dogs, cavachons rely on their noses more than any other sense. Play a game of treasure hunt with your cavachon. Take your cavachon’s favorite smelly treat or toy and hide it. Tell your cavachon to find it and allow them to search and sniff it out.
Similar to the treasure hunt game, hot & cold involves hiding a treat for your cavachon to find. Use a calm tone of voice as your cavachon moves further away from the hidden treat. As your cavachon gets closer to the treat, your voice increases in excitement. This game improves your cavachon’s listening skills. It also creates a special language between you and your cavachon.
Diet
Diet plays a key role in maintaining your cavachon’s cognitive health. Like humans, dogs don’t produce Omega-3 fatty acids on their own. Omega-3 aids in early brain development but also protects from cognitive decline later in life. Fish oil supplements are an easy way to introduce Omega-3 FAs into your cavachon’s diet. Fish oil supports the immune system and aids in helping fight canine cancer. Along with fish oil, Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps reduce cognitive aging. It scavenges free radicals and helps reduce inflammation. Other vitamins that help with cognitive health are thiamin, B12, and B6. Always consult your vet before giving your cavachon any dietary supplements.
Stress
Recognizing the signs of stress in your cavachon prevents anxiety. Signs that your cavachon is stressed are whining and barking, shaking or pacing, panting, hiding, or attempting to escape.
Prevention
It is important to differentiate between when your cavachon is stressed versus what may be normal behavior for them (for example barking at a squirrel as opposed to barking in fear). This comes from knowing your cavachon’s regular responses well. If you observe your cavachon showing signs of being stressed, the first step is to remove them from the stressor. Cavachons exhibit fearful postures, such as shaking or their ears pinned against their head. If they are not removed from the stressor or feel trapped, the cavachon’s flight response kicks in. If your cavachon avoids interactions with certain dogs or people – respect their boundaries. Don’t force your cavachon to interact with them.
If your cavachon is feeling stressed, they signal to you that they are uneasy. If their signals are ignored, your cavachon may attempt to hide. Changes in bodily functions are also a sign of stress. Cavachons are liable to feel the sudden urge to urinate when nervous or stressed. Cavachons urinate after meeting a new doggy friend both to mark their territory and as a reaction to stress.
Management
Physical activity relieves stress. Being consistent with your daily walks is key in helping to manage their stress levels. Cavachons thrive on physical connection with their owner. Spend quality time cuddling and simply being present with your cavachon does wonders to help with their stress.
Try giving your cavachon a massage. Start at the neck and move downward in long strokes along your cavachon’s body. Keep one hand on your cavachon, while the other hand massages. In time, you are able to identify what areas of your cavachon’s body are holding tension. Don’t attempt massage when your cavachon is in a state of high stress or a stressful environment.
Music therapy is another great option for managing your cavacon’s stress. The type of music you choose to play for your cavachon is important. Classical music, soft rock, and reggae is known to reduce stress in dogs. There are even doggy music therapy playlists on Spotify. Create your own playlist and have it on in the background for your cavachon. Allow a few days for your cavachon to positively adjust to the new background sound on the music. Then play the same music in stressful situations like long car rides, trips to the vet, or when you leave your cavachon alone.
Additional ways to help your cavachon’s stress are exercise, aromatherapy, and calming coats. A calming garment applies mild consistent pressure to your cavachon’s torso. Aromatherapy is another option for cavachon stress relief. There are diffusers on the market that emit pheromones that calm dogs. Plug the diffuser in the room your cavachon sleeps or where their crate is located. CBD oil or CBD treats also benefit cavachons with anxiety. Research on the benefit of CBD Oil for dogs is ongoing but promising. The best option to keep your cavachon stress free is simply to be present with them.
Physical Health
Allergies in dogs are a complicated topic. There are multiple types of allergies in dogs, and they often have them simultaneously. While cavachon puppies themselves are considered low-allergen or hypoallergenic due to their low shed factor, they struggle with allergies. The most common are flea allergies, food allergies, and environmental allergies. Symptoms of allergies in your cavachon are itchiness, hives, sneezing, runny eyes, and red, inflamed skin.
Flea Allergy Dermatitis
Flea allergy dermatitis is a leading cause of allergic reactions in dogs. It’s a common cause of itching for dogs, though food allergies cause itching as well. Cavachon pups do not have to be infested with fleas to have been bitten by one and have a reaction. A single flea bite causes itching for days. Fleas don’t stay on the body after feeding. Unless there is a severe flea infestation in the home, you likely don’t see any fleas on your cavachon. Flea allergy dermatitis is caused by the flea’s saliva. When a flea bites your cavachon it injects a small amount of its saliva into the skin. These antigens cause itchiness in your cavachon. Your vet diagnoses your cavachon’s flea allergy by running a blood test or an intradermal skin test. There are various monthly treatments to guard against fleas. Speak with your veterinarian to find the best parasite control for your cavachon.
Food Allergies
Food allergies are the most complicated allergen of the three. Most cavachons and other dogs do not have actual food allergies, rather, they have food sensitivities. Food allergies elicit an acute response (anaphylactic shock), whereas sensitivities create a gradual reaction over time. A more accurate term for what your cavachon is experiencing is “food intolerance.” This is due to a specific ingredient in your cavachon’s food, like eggs or chicken. Food additives such as sulfites also cause reactions in cavachons. Cavachons with food sensitivities have symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, itchy skin, or chronic ear infections.
Diagnosis
The best way to diagnose if your cavachon has a food intolerance is to take them to the vet. After ruling out other obvious health issues, your vet places your cavachon on an elimination diet. This involves removing certain foods from the diet and monitoring your cavachon for improvement. If your vet advises you to switch the types of proteins you feed your cavachon, hypoallergenic dog food is an option. These are foods formulated specifically for dogs with food sensitivities.
Acute Allergic Reaction
In the case of an actual acute allergic reaction to food, take your cavachon to the vet immediately. Anaphylactic shock is fatal in cavachons. Bee stings and severe allergic reactions cause anaphylactic shock in dogs. Fortunately, acute allergic reactions in dogs are rare.
Environmental Allergies
Environmental allergens your cavachon is allergic to are dust, pollen, fragrances, and mold. Environmental and seasonal allergies are common in dogs. Environmental allergies are also referred to as “inhalant allergies” or “atopy” and affect your cavachon’s skin and respiratory system.
Inhalant Allergy or Atopy
You may notice your cavachon sneezing, itching, watery eyes, and biting or licking itself. This form of allergy is inhalant allergy or atopy and falls under the umbrella description of environmental allergies. The main inhalant allergens like tree pollens, grass, and weed pollens are seasonal. Other allergens like mold, mildew, and dust are year-round.
In most cavachons, the inhalant allergy exhibits as itchy skin (pruritus). Treatments for environmental allergies vary. If your cavachon has an allergy to dust, it’s as simple as keeping your home dust-free and using an air purifier. If your cavachon has seasonal allergies, avoid opening windows during warmer months. Washing your cavachon with hypoallergenic shampoo frequently soothes their skin since bathing rinses away allergens on their coat. Find shampoos that have anti-inflammatory ingredients to soothe your cavachon’s itchy skin.
Allergy Relief Options We Love
-
$28.99 ($0.32 / Count)Buy Now
by PetHonesty
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
03/08/2024 07:54 am GMT -
$12.55 ($0.21 / Count)Buy Now
by Vet’s Best
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
03/08/2024 06:59 am GMT -
$23.81 ($0.20 / Count)Buy Now
by STRELLALAB
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
03/08/2024 07:04 am GMT
© BreedExpert Testing Lab.
Gut Health
“Gut” is an all-encompassing term for the digestive process. The gut microbiome is made up of millions of microorganisms that live inside your Cavachon’s digestive tract. The gut microbiome helps your cavachon’s body digest nutrients. Without these microorganisms, your cavachon is unable to digest its food. Imbalances in the microbiome affect the immune system. Your cavachon’s microbiome plays a huge role in its overall health.
Probiotics and Nutrients
Maintaining your cavachon’s gut health is done through a diet rich in probiotics. Fiber plays a key role in gut health in dogs. Fermented foods such as yogurt and kefir are all safe for dogs and help maintain their microbiome. High-fiber dog foods or fiber supplements such as pumpkin and mushrooms are a good addition to cavachon diets.
Microbiome Health
Antibiotics drop microbe levels requiring the microbiome to be repopulated. Stress and lack of sleep and exercise alter your cavachon’s microbiome. Being exposed to second-hand smoke affects your cavachon’s microbiome. Decreasing your cavachon exposure to smoke and making sure they get adequate rest and exercise greatly improves their microbiome.
Parasites
Parasites are a common cause of digestive tract issues in dogs. Many species of parasites infect the digestive tract. Parasites cause severe disease in cavachons and sometimes infect humans. Your vet does a thorough exam and runs blood tests for a correct diagnosis. If a parasite is found, your vet creates a care plan for your cavachon.
Parvovirus
Parvo, or canine parvovirus, is a common disease among puppies. Parvo is a disease of the small intestines and stomach. Parvo is highly contagious and is spread by contact with an infected dog or contact with a contaminated object.
Cavachon puppies aged 6 weeks to 6 months are the most vulnerable to parvo. Cavachon puppies are vaccinated against parvo between 6-12 weeks old and are at risk for the disease until they have received all three vaccination shots. As an additional level of protection, cavachon puppies receive an additional parvo vaccine dose at 16-18 weeks, regardless of how many shots they previously had. There is no cure for parvo and it is fatal in many cases.
The most vital thing to do if you suspect your cavachon has parvo is to call ahead to your vet and get them to the vet immediately. The chances of surviving parvo decline the longer it’s left untreated. The best way to prevent parvo is to not allow your cavachon puppies to socialize with unvaccinated dogs or puppies.
Gut Health Options We Love
-
$29.97 ($2.36 / Ounce)Buy Now
by Zesty Paws
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
03/08/2024 05:55 am GMT -
$35.95 ($1.20 / Count)Buy Now
by PetLab Co.
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
03/08/2024 07:29 am GMT -
$28.99 ($0.32 / Count)Buy Now
by PetHonesty
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
03/08/2024 08:14 am GMT
© BreedExpert Testing Lab.
Tear-Staining
Tear staining is a common issue for cavachons. There is no major health risk that comes with tear-staining.
Your cavachon simply produces an excess of tears that accumulate in the fur under the eyes. Mostly it is a nuisance to dog owners as it stains the cavachon’s coat around the eyes. Tear-staining occurs with many dog breeds but is most noticeable in dogs with lighter-colored coats. Just as making sure your cavachon’s coat is brushed and groomed on a regular basis is important, eye care and cleaning are just as important. Clean your cavachon’s eyes by gently wiping away any discharge with a piece of soft cotton or a washcloth moistened with warm water. Avoid rubbing the eye directly. Check the eyes for any signs of redness or irritation.
Your cavachon’s healthy eyes are clear and bright, with the whites of the eyes being pure white. Give your cavachon puppies purified or distilled water to drink. If your cavachon already has tear staining, apply a solution of mild hydrogen peroxide to the stained area (avoiding the eyes themselves). This lightens the color of your cavachon’s fur.
Eye Supplements We Love
© BreedExpert Testing Lab.
-
$44.55 ($0.99 / Count)Buy Now
by Ocu-GLO
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
03/08/2024 08:30 am GMT -
$45.99 ($0.38 / Count)Buy Now
by Nutrition Strength
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
03/08/2024 08:19 am GMT -
$36.99 ($0.41 / Count)Buy Now
by Coco and Luna
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
03/08/2024 08:54 am GMT
© BreedExpert Testing Lab.
Ear Health
As cleaning your cavachon’s eyes is important, and so is cleaning of their ears. Your cavachon’s ears should be cleaned once a month minimum.
Check the inside of your cavachon’s ears for dirt, discharge, parasites, or scratches. Healthy ears are free from bad odors when you sniff them. Any foul smell is a sign of infection. Never use cotton buds or swabs to clean your cavachon’s ears as they cause serious damage to the ear canal and make the removal of dirt or wax harder by pushing them deeper in the ear canal. Avoid using paper towels, cotton balls, or cotton rounds to clean your cavachon’s ears as they leave behind fibers in your cavachon’s ear canal, causing irritation. To clean the ears, moisten a piece of gauze with mineral oil and gently wipe out the ears, going no deeper than the first knuckle of your finger.
Ear Infection
If you notice an odor or dark discharge, your cavachon may have an ear infection. Ear infections are common in dogs, with as many as 20% having some form of ear disease.
Dogs are more prone to ear infections than humans because of the shape of their ear canals. Besides odor or an excess of discharge in the ear, other symptoms are head shaking, scratching at the ear, redness, swelling of the ear canal, or crusting or scabs in the ear. Because of the shape of their ears, cavachons are predisposed to ear infections.
Causes
Ear infections are caused by bacteria, yeast, or ear mites. Allergies are a prime culprit for ear infections in cavachons. Other factors include moisture (bacteria thrive in moist areas), wax buildup, foreign bodies, endocrine disorders (such as thyroid disease), and injury to the ear canal. If your cavachon shows any signs of an ear infection, a visit to the vet is necessary.
Treatment
Ear infections are painful, and, if left untreated, worsen over time. If this is your cavachon’s first ear infection, be prepared to answer lots of questions in regard to their diet, grooming regimen (including how often their ears are cleaned), and allergies. Most ear infections resolve within 1-2 weeks with proper treatment. Severe infections due to underlying health conditions take months to resolve and may require surgical intervention.
Prevention
While ear infections are a common occurrence, there are ways to minimize the risk of your cavachon developing one. Dry your cavachon’s ear thoroughly after baths and swimming. As mentioned above, regular ear cleaning is vital in keeping your cavachon’s ears healthy. If your cavachon suffers from allergies that cause chronic ear infections, an improvement in diet helps lessen the recurrence of the infections.
Ear Cleaning Solutions We Love
-
$13.99 ($1.75 / Fl Oz)Buy Now
by VetWELL
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
03/08/2024 06:09 am GMT -
$20.08 ($2.51 / Fl Oz)Buy Now
by Virbac
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
03/08/2024 06:20 am GMT -
$10.99Buy Now
by Nutri-Vet
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
03/08/2024 08:39 am GMT
© BreedExpert Testing Lab.
Immune Health
Your cavachon’s immune system is a network of white blood cells, antibodies, and other substances that fight off infections and foreign proteins.
The immune system includes several organs, including the bone marrow and thymus gland. These areas are where white blood cells are produced. Other areas, such as the lymph nodes and the spleen, trap microorganisms and foreign substances. Cavachon puppies rely on the immune systems of their mother while in utero.
Once born, cavachon puppies are at a greater risk for developing infectious diseases because their immune systems are still developing and they lack full immunity. The passive transfer of immunity through the mother’s colostrum during nursing is vital for cavachon puppies’ survival in the first weeks of life. As the immune system encounters various antigens, it learns how to attack and defend against them.
Autoimmune Disorders
Immune system disorders happen when the immune system is over- or under-active. Disorders from an underactive immune system are called immunodeficiencies and put your cavachon at an increased risk for infections.
An overactive immune system attacks parts of its own body that it misidentifies as foreign. There are many common illnesses that cavachons present with that are due to compromised immune health including allergies, polyarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, hyperthyroidism, lupus, inflammatory bowel disease, and anemia.
Immune Support
There are natural ways to support your cavachon’s immune health. Your vet may prescribe supplements such as milk thistle. Foods such as carrots, yogurt, and whole grains (high-fiber foods can improve the digestive system which can be adversely affected) are also great for maintaining immune health in cavachon puppies.
© BreedExpert Testing Lab.
Feed your cavachon a high-quality diet of fresh, minimally processed food rich in protein, fiber, and essential fatty acids to support the digestive tract. Eliminating stress factors is also vital to supporting your cavachon’s immune health.
Immune Health Options We Love
-
$29.97 ($2.68 / Ounce)Buy Now
by Zesty Paws
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
03/08/2024 06:05 am GMT -
$26.88Buy on Amazon
by Ready Pet Go!
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
03/08/2024 07:15 am GMT -
$22.80Buy on Amazon
by Bark&Spark
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
03/08/2024 08:59 am GMT
© BreedExpert Testing Lab.
Joint Health
Both of the cavachon’s parents, the bichon frise and the Cavalier King Charles spaniel, have a genetic predisposition to patellar luxation.
Patellar luxation is a condition found mostly in small breed dogs, though some larger dogs are affected as well. Patellar luxation occurs when the kneecap moves out of its normal position resulting in dislocation. This condition typically isn’t painful but does cause discomfort and affects your cavachon’s ability to walk or run. Patellar luxation often begins in puppyhood but does not have visible signs until your cavachon reaches maturity.
Causes of Patellar Luxation
Patellar luxation is when the patella, “luxates” or dislocates.
When the patella luxates, the cavachon has trouble bearing weight on the affected leg. Cavachons rarely show signs of pain from this condition. There are several degrees of patellar luxation graded from I – V ranging from mild to severe. Mild is usually managed with modified physical activity, while severe almost always needs surgical correction.
In affected cavachon puppies, one or both kneecaps luxate, sometimes at varying degrees. Approximately 50% of dogs have luxation in just one kneecap, while the other 50 percent have it in both kneecaps. Most cavachons live relatively normal lives with patellar luxation. However, patellar luxation predisposes them to other injuries, like Cruciate Ligament Rupture.
Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia is another common joint issue in dogs. It’s primarily found in large-breed dogs. However, small breed dogs like the cavachon are also affected. Both the bichon frise and the Cavalier King Charles spaniel have a predisposition to hip dysplasia.
Causes
Hip dysplasia is a deformity of the hip joint that occurs during growth. Both the thigh bone and the socket in the pelvis must grow at the same rate during growth. In cavachons with hip dysplasia, uniform growth does not occur. The result is a looseness of the joint.
This joint laxity is followed by degenerative joint disease (DJD) or osteoarthritis (OA), which is the body’s attempt to stabilize the loose joint. The degree of joint lameness is dependent on the extent of the arthritic changes.
Symptoms
Symptoms of hip dysplasia in cavachons exhibit as weakness in the hind legs. Your cavachon appears wobbly or is reluctant to stand up from a sitting or laying down position. Some cavachons have trouble walking up or down stairs or be reluctant to do so.
Clinical signs of hip dysplasia show themselves in cavachon puppies when they are only a few months old but are most common in cavachons between 1-2 years old. Though hip dysplasia is developed in puppyhood, most cavachons do not show clinical signs of the condition until they are older. It takes years of gradual bone degeneration before clinical symptoms show. Hip dysplasia is diagnosed by a hip radiograph (a form of moving X-ray) while under general anesthetic. Treatment for the disease depends on the severity of the condition.
Prevention
While hip dysplasia is genetic, there are ways to help prevent cavachon puppies from developing hip dysplasia. Don’t over-exercise your cavachon. They do well with 30-minute walks and no strenuous activities on hard surfaces. Cavachons are prone to weight gain. Excess weight puts stress on the joints including kneecaps and hips. Keep your cavachon at a healthy weight.
Joint Health Options We Love
© BreedExpert Testing Lab.
-
$22.99 ($16.57 / lb)Buy Now
by VetIQ
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
03/08/2024 06:25 am GMT -
$29.97 ($0.33 / Count)Buy Now
by Zesty Paws
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
03/08/2024 06:15 am GMT -
$9.99 ($1.59 / Ounce)Buy Now
by PetNC
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
03/08/2024 07:41 am GMT
© BreedExpert Testing Lab.
Skin and Coat
Cavachons are not low-maintenance when it comes to grooming. They need to be groomed regularly. Avoid bathing too frequently if your cavachon has sensitive skin. Use a mild shampoo formulated for dogs. Cavachons need to be brushed a few times a week- more if it is shedding season. Cut or trim your cavachon’s fur to remove any tangles or matted hair. Trim your cavachon’s nails with canine nail trimmers.
Grooming
Professional grooming is an option if this is beyond your skill set or desire to attempt yourself. A professional groomer gives your cavachon a full-service groom, including ear and eye cleaning, nail trimming, a bath, and a nice fresh cut and blowout. If you opt to use a professional groomer, your cavachon should see them every 6-8 weeks. Between that time, you still need to brush and bathe your cavachon regularly yourself.
Like with everything, diet plays a crucial part in the health and look of your cavachon’s skin and coat. Feeding your cavachon a fresh diet high in Omega-3 fatty acids keeps their coat shiny and full.
Atopic Dermatitis
Skin sensitivities are a common problem for cavachons. They often fall under the categories of allergies or autoimmune issues.
Atopic dermatitis is a common skin reaction that cavachons experience. Atopic dermatitis is an inherited predisposition to developing an allergic reaction to substances after repeated exposure. Cavachons with atopic dermatitis often lick, rub and bite at their flanks, paws, ears, groin, and armpits. Constant licking of these areas leads to hair loss and thickening of the skin. Affected skin looks dry or crusty or, in some cases, oily, depending on the dog. Your cavachon’s ear flaps may be red and hot to the touch.
If your cavachon suffers from atopic dermatitis, there are ways to provide relief. Medicated baths are an excellent option when bathing your cavachon. Bathing your cavachon with an anti-microbial wash allows you to wash their coat more frequently without causing irritation. Bathing with over-the-counter hypoallergenic dog shampoo removes allergens on their skin. Never bathe your cavachon puppies with a shampoo formulated for humans, such as baby shampoo.
Skin and Coat Health Options We Love
-
$29.99 ($0.33 / Count)Buy on Amazon
by VetIQ
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
03/08/2024 03:54 pm GMT -
$26.99 ($0.30 / Count)Buy Now
by Natural Dog Company
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
03/08/2024 08:50 am GMT -
$27.95Buy on Amazon
by Natural Dog Company
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
03/08/2024 08:34 am GMT -
$10.99 ($1.49 / Ounce)Learn More
by VetIQ
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
03/08/2024 07:09 am GMT
Diet To Improve Dermatitis
Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids have reportedly been helpful in 20% of dogs with atopic dermatitis. Feeding your cavachon puppies a hypoallergenic diet with novel proteins like bison, venison, duck, and fish not commonly found in dog food also helps with atopic dermatitis. A novel protein is one that’s completely new to your cavachon.
Most cavachons respond well to hypoallergenic dog foods. Feed your cavachon a hypoallergenic diet for at least 8-10 weeks to adequately assess their response. Some cavachons see an improvement in just 4-6 weeks. In some cases, it is necessary to prepare your cavachon’s meals at home. If this is the best option, sit down with your vet to create a personalized meal plan for your cavachon.
The Captivating Cavachon
This charming and affectionate mixed breed effortlessly captivates the hearts of their owners. With an endearing blend of the Cavalier King Charles spaniel’s elegance and the bichon frise’s playfulness, cavachons embody the best of both, creating an enchanting companion. People reported in June 2023 sweet cavachon siblings reunited after their owners found each other through Instagram.
Cavachons’ gentle and loving nature makes them ideal family dogs, readily forming strong bonds with all members of the household. These dogs thrive on human companionship, radiating happiness whenever they’re with their loved ones. Their moderate size and adaptable temperament make them well-suited for various living environments from apartments to suburban homes.
Their cheerful disposition ensures they seamlessly integrate into diverse lifestyles, whether it’s joining in outdoor adventures or relishing quiet moments indoors. Minimal shedding and manageable grooming requirements make them a practical choice for families seeking an affectionate companion. The effervescent spirit and unwavering devotion of a cavachon bring immeasurable fulfillment.
Subscribe to Breed Expert for more breed-specific facts and stats.
