With some of the most affectionate dog breeds as parents, it’s no surprise that Cavachons tend to be extremely friendly and affectionate. They tend to have a happy outlook and are energetic and playful. Plus, they get along great with children, other dogs, and other pets. The Cavachon tends to retain a puppy-like demeanor throughout their life.

Well-socialized, they even tend to be open and friendly with strangers. They thrive on attention and affection, so anyone they meet is just another person to give them what they love. They make good watchdogs, but do not make good guard dogs as they are far more interested in making friends. This can make them prone to barking a lot, especially if you accidentally train them into it. It’s not a bad idea to start to train your dog to stop barking to keep it from becoming a nuisance.

This dog breed is highly adaptable. They do well in homes with or without yards as well as apartments. They are a good fit for single owners, families with children, and seniors. They are very in tune with their owners and love spending time with them, so they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time.

They also do well in most climates. As with most dog breeds, Cavachons are sensitive to extreme heat or cold. Because of their smaller size, you may also need to bundle them up in some winter dog products for outdoor adventures when temperatures drop outside.

Although mixed dog breeds can sometimes “win the genetic lottery” and be healthier than their parent breeds, it’s not a guarantee. They can also inherit the genetic conditions of one or both of the parent breeds as well.

A few potential health conditions to be aware of in Cavachons can include patellar luxation, hip dysplasia, Syringomyelia, Mitral Valve Disease, allergies, and cataracts. Good breeding practices and the health of the parents make a big difference in Cavachon puppies.

Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to make sure they are not passing avoidable issues to puppies. Make sure you ask about the health and genetic history of both parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done.

The Cavachon is a highly trainable dog breed. They are eager to please their owner and are intelligent, which makes them a good fit for owners of any experience level. If they inherit more of their temperament from the Bichon Frise, they can have a little bit of a stubborn streak. So, it’s usually recommended for first-time dog owners to enroll in puppy training classes.

Cavachons respond best to training that is kept positive and is focused on positive feedback and praise. They do not respond well to criticism. Although they are relatively good at maintaining their focus for training sessions, it’s important to take breaks when it seems that their attention is starting to wander. This is one of the tips to keep your dog engaged during training sessions.

Due to their small size, the basics of house training can sometimes be difficult. Crate training, creating a routine, and a good amount of patience are house training tips that can help both you and your dog when it comes to potty training.

Cavachons require a moderate to high amount of grooming. Although they tend to have low-shedding coats, their dog coat types can be straight, wavy, or curly. They need to be brushed at least a few times a week, if not daily, to remove tangles and prevent matting.

Monthly bathing is also recommended. If left unattended, the coat can also grow to be relatively long, so professional grooming is recommended at least several times a year, if not monthly. In addition to brushing their coat, you’ll also need to take care of their nails, ears, and teeth.

Trimming nails once or twice monthly is usually sufficient, but may need to occur more often if your dog doesn’t wear them down as much between trimmings. If you hear their nails clicking when they walk across the floor or they start snagging on things, it’s time for a trim even if it hasn’t been a full month yet.

It’s also important to regularly check your dog’s ears and carefully clean them as needed to help prevent ear infections and irritation. This is especially important with your Cavachon because they have floppy ears that are more likely to trap dirt, debris, and moisture, which makes them more prone to ear infections than dogs whose ears stick up.

Dental care for dogs is so important, but it is often overlooked, which is why dental disease is the most common health issue in dogs. Thankfully, there are some things you can do to help prevent tooth decay and gum disease in your dog. Brushing their teeth or using an enzyme toothpaste every day helps prevent the tartar buildup that causes dental disease. In addition to that, you can also get cleanings at the vet when needed and give your dog dental hygiene chews to supplement your doggie dental care efforts.

It’s a good idea to get your puppy used to having their paws, mouth, and ears handled early on and to keep grooming a positive and rewarding experience. This will help make grooming an easier process for both of you as your dog grows. It can even become an activity that strengthens the bond you have with your dog!

The Cavachon has a moderate activity level. They are highly energetic and will enjoy plenty of playtime. But, due to their small size, they don’t require a lot of exercise to be happy and healthy. A few walks and some playtime every day will be plenty of exercise for this pup.

They will also likely be up for more activities with you if you lead a more active life. They’ll be happy to spend more time with you, so don’t be afraid to go hiking with your dog or to go for a swim with them if they enjoy the water. Just keep an eye on them and take plenty of breaks if it seems like they’re showing signs of tiring or are having trouble keeping up.

A fully-grown Cavachon usually stands 12-13 inches tall at the shoulder and weighs 10-20 pounds.

Cavchons generally live for 10-15 years on average.

Although it is possible that Cavachons have been around longer, it is thought that they were developed as a designer breed and named in the late 1990s.