9 things to know before getting a Cavachon

Thinking about bringing home a Cavachon? These sweet little pups — a mix between a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a Bichon Frise — are as charming as they sound. But like with any dog, it’s important to know what you’re signing up for.

We’ve had the pleasure of meeting a few Cavachons over the years (especially through friends and fosters), and they really are joyful little companions. Here’s what to expect if you’re thinking about adding one to your family.

1. Cavachons are smart — and usually eager to please

Thanks to their parent breeds, Cavachons are pretty bright and respond well to training. What makes them stand out is how much they want to make you happy. That people-pleasing side makes basic obedience training a lot easier, especially if you start early. We’ve seen even first-time dog owners do well with them, especially when they stick to a consistent routine and use plenty of positive reinforcement.

If you want to challenge their brains a bit more, puzzle toys and short training sessions with treats go a long way. They're not stubborn like some small breeds can be, which is a relief.

2. They’re lovers, not loners

Cavachons are affectionate to the core. They’ll nap in your lap, follow you from room to room, and generally just want to be near their people. This makes them amazing companions — especially for folks who are home a lot.

But this also means they don’t do well when left alone for long stretches. If you’re out of the house for 8+ hours a day, a Cavachon could struggle with separation anxiety. We’ve seen it firsthand — barking, whining, even some destructive chewing. If that’s your situation, a dog walker, doggy daycare, or even a second pet might help, but it’s definitely something to plan for.

3. They tend to pick a favorite person (but love the whole family)

Cavachons often bond most closely with one person — usually the one who feeds them, walks them, or just spends the most time with them. That said, they’re still friendly and affectionate with the rest of the household. Whether you’ve got kids, roommates, or a big family, they usually fit right in as long as they’re well-socialized.

4. Social butterflies — with the right introductions

Don’t let their small size fool you — Cavachons can be super social. But like with any dog, early socialization matters. Introduce them to new people, dogs, and even cats while they’re still young, and keep those experiences positive. We’ve seen Cavachons get along beautifully with kids, other pets, and even strangers when they’ve had that early exposure.

Skip proper socialization, though, and you might end up with a nervous or barky pup. So make time for those playdates and walks in busy parks.

5. Yes, they bark — but you can work on it

Cavachons can be a bit vocal. It’s partly their Spaniel side — these dogs were bred to communicate with people, after all. The good news? With consistent training, you can teach them when it’s okay to bark and when it’s not.

A few things that helped us: rewarding quiet behavior, redirecting with toys or treats, and not unintentionally reinforcing barking by giving attention when they do it. It takes some patience, but they’re smart enough to learn.

6. Small size, big personality

Cavachons usually stand around 12–13 inches tall and weigh somewhere between 15 and 35 pounds, depending on their parents. That puts them on the smaller side — definitely apartment-friendly — but they’ve got enough energy and personality to fill a room.

If you live in a smaller space, they can still thrive as long as they get enough mental and physical stimulation.

7. Playful but not high-maintenance on exercise

You won’t need to run marathons to keep a Cavachon happy. A couple of short daily walks and some indoor playtime usually do the trick. They’re playful and energetic, sure, but a good tug toy or a game of fetch in the living room will burn off a lot of that energy.

This makes them a great match for seniors, families, or anyone who wants a more relaxed companion.

8. Their coat needs regular care — and it varies

Cavachons can inherit a single coat like the Spaniel or a double coat from the Bichon side. Either way, their hair tends to be wavy or curly and grows to a medium or long length. You’ll see them in lovely blends of white, apricot, peach, tan, sable, and black.

No matter the coat type, regular grooming is a must. We recommend brushing several times a week to prevent tangles or mats. And unless you’re confident with clippers, a trip to the groomer every 6–8 weeks is usually needed.

As for allergies — they’re not fully hypoallergenic. If that’s a concern, spend some time with a Cavachon before committing.

9. Generally healthy, but know the risks

With good care, Cavachons can live 10–15 years and often longer. They’re pretty sturdy for a small breed, but like all dogs, they’re prone to a few inherited health issues. Keep an eye out for:

• Skin allergies (especially atopic dermatitis)
• Cataracts and other eye issues
• Heart conditions like mitral valve disease
• Luxating patella (knee issues)
• Syringomyelia (a neurological condition more common in Cavaliers)

Regular vet checkups and a good diet can help you stay ahead of most problems. We always recommend getting your pup from a responsible breeder or rescue who screens for common issues.

Is the Cavachon right for you?

If you’re looking for a small, loving, playful companion who thrives on human connection, the Cavachon is a fantastic choice. They’re adaptable, friendly, and great with both singles and families.

But they do need attention, training, and regular grooming. If you’re away from home a lot or want a more independent or outdoorsy dog, you might be better matched with another breed.

At the end of the day, Cavachons want to be part of your daily life — not just your home. If that sounds like what you’re looking for, then you might have just found your perfect match.