You’re in the right place if you’re considering one of these adorable, fluffy companions. Cavapoos blend the intelligence and hypoallergenic coat of the Poodle with the loving nature of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, while Cavachons combine the same Cavalier’s charm with the sturdiness of a Bichon Frise.

Each breed offers a unique mix of characteristics that cater to different family environments and lifestyles. Whether you’re a busy urbanite looking for a laid-back companion or a family seeking an energetic playmate, understanding the nuances of these breeds will help you make the perfect choice.

Cavapoo vs Cavachon: Which Is Right For You?

The main difference between a Cavapoo and a Cavachon lies in their breed composition and resulting characteristics, which influences their suitability for various lifestyles. Cavapoos, a cross between a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a Poodle, are known for their hypoallergenic coats and high intelligence, making them ideal for active families or individuals who enjoy training and engaging with their pets. On the other hand, Cavachons, the offspring of a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a Bichon Frise, offer a gentler temperament and a fluffy, moderately shedding coat, suiting those who prefer a calmer, affectionate companion.

Feature	Cavapoo	Cavachon	Ideal Owner
Origin	Cross between a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a Poodle.	Cross between a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a Bichon Frise.	Depends on preference for breed history.
Size	Small to medium (9-25 pounds).	Small (10-20 pounds).	Cavapoo for slightly larger size preference.
Coat	Soft, can be curly or wavy, hypoallergenic.	Fluffy, wavy, moderate shedding.	Cavapoo for hypoallergenic needs.
Temperament	Friendly, energetic, intelligent.	Playful, affectionate, gentle.	Cavapoo for active families; Cavachon for those seeking a gentle companion.
Health	Generally healthy; watch for common Poodle health issues.	Generally healthy; some concerns typical of small breeds.	Owner willing to manage breed-specific health needs.
Lifespan	12-15 years.	10-15 years.	Similar lifespan expectations.
Grooming Needs	High due to potential for curly coat that mats.	Moderate; regular grooming needed to prevent tangles.	Cavapoo for owners committed to regular grooming; Cavachon for slightly less intensive care.
Exercise Needs	Moderate; enjoys walks and play.	Moderate; requires daily activity but can adapt to more relaxed lifestyles.	Both suitable for moderately active owners.
Intelligence/Trainability	Very intelligent and trainable.	Intelligent and generally easy to train.	Cavapoo for potentially more complex training; Cavachon for straightforward training.
Cost of Ownership	High due to grooming and potential health care.	Moderate to high, depending on health and maintenance.	Financial readiness for ongoing care and potential health issues.
Social Behavior	Great with families and other pets; social and adaptable.	Good with children and other animals; slightly quieter.	Cavapoo for very social settings; Cavachon for families or singles looking for a calm companion.

Deciding which breed is right for you depends on your personal preference for coat maintenance, activity levels, and the kind of social interaction you seek from a pet.

About Cavapoos

A Cavapoo, also known as a Cavadoodle or Cavoodle, is a hybrid breed created by crossing a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel with a Poodle. This cross combines the gentle and affectionate nature of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel with the intelligence and hypoallergenic qualities of the Poodle.

Origin and Breed History

The Cavapoo was first bred in Australia in the 1990s, part of a growing trend to produce dogs that could potentially suit people with allergies and provide a companion animal with the best traits of two beloved breeds. Over the years, Cavapoos have gained popularity worldwide, especially in the United States and the UK, thanks to their sweet disposition and reduced shedding.

General Characteristics

• Size: Cavapoos vary in size, typically weighing 9 to 25 pounds, depending on whether the Poodle parent is a toy or miniature.
• Coat: Their coat can range from silky and straight to curly or wavy, reflecting the coat characteristics of both parent breeds. The hypoallergenic coat makes them a popular option for families with allergies.
• Color: Cavapoos’ coat colors can include a variety of shades, such as cream, gold, white, black, and brown, and sometimes even multi-colored patterns.

Cavapoo Temperament and Personality Traits

Cavapoos are known for their kind and friendly nature, making them excellent companions for families, singles, and seniors alike. They inherit the high intelligence and trainability of the Poodle and the loving, outgoing nature of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.

These traits make them particularly easy to train, eager to please, and great at adapting to various living situations, whether it’s an apartment in a bustling city or a house with a backyard. Their social demeanor also means they generally get along well with other dogs, pets, and children, making them a fantastic addition to nearly any home.

About Cavachons

A Cavachon is a charming crossbreed between a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a Bichon Frise, developed to create a small, friendly, and less shedding companion dog. This breed has quickly captured the hearts of many due to its delightful demeanor and attractive appearance.

Origin and Breed History

The Cavachon emerged in the late 1990s in North America. This breed was part of the trend toward designing dogs that would fit well in less spacious living environments and appeal to families with mild allergies, thanks to its relatively low-shedding coat. Major kennel clubs have not recognized the breed but has established a robust following due to its affable nature and manageable size.

General Characteristics

• Size: Cavachons are typically small, weighing 10 to 20 pounds, making them ideal pets for smaller homes or apartments.
• Coat: Their coat is fluffy, soft, and can range from wavy to curly. While Cavachons are marketed as low shedders, they are not hypoallergenic and do require regular grooming to maintain their coat’s condition.
• Color: They often come in various colors, including shades of white, tan, black, and combinations of these colors.

Temperament and Personality Traits

Cavachons are known for their sweet and friendly nature. They inherit the gentle disposition of both the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and the Bichon Frise, making them excellent lap dogs and companions. They thrive on human interaction and can suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for long periods.

Cavachons are particularly good with children and other pets, making them suitable for a family setting. Their intelligence and eagerness to please make them relatively easy to train, although they may sometimes inherit the Bichon Frise’s stubborn streak.

Overall, their adaptability and cheerful attitude make them a popular choice for many households looking for a small, affectionate dog with a lively personality.

Choosing Between a Cavapoo and a Cavachon

When deciding between a Cavapoo and a Cavachon, prospective pet owners should consider several factors related to their lifestyle, household environment, and personal preferences. Here’s a detailed look at who might prefer one breed over the other:

Who Should Consider a Cavapoo?

• Allergy Sufferers: Due to their Poodle heritage, Cavapoos often have a hypoallergenic coat, which makes them a suitable choice for families or individuals with mild allergies. Their fur typically produces less dander and sheds less, which are common triggers for allergy sufferers.
• Active Families or Individuals: Cavapoos are known for their energy and intelligence. They thrive in environments where they can engage in regular physical activities and mental stimulation. If you enjoy outdoor activities or want a dog that is eager to learn tricks and participate in dog sports, a Cavapoo might be the right choice.
• First-time Dog Owners: With their friendly nature and eagerness to please, Cavapoos are generally easier to train. This makes them a great option for first-time dog owners who might benefit from a more forgiving and adaptable breed as they learn the ropes of dog training and care.
• Urban Dwellers: Cavapoos are adaptable and can thrive in various living situations, including apartments and urban settings, as long as their exercise needs are met. They are also generally sociable with people and other pets, ideal for the communal living spaces often found in cities.

Who Should Consider a Cavachon?

• Families with Young Children: Cavachons are known for their gentle and affectionate temperament, making them excellent companions for families with young children. They are patient and less likely to display dominant behaviors, ensuring a safer interaction for younger family members.
• Those Seeking a Lower Energy Companion: While still playful and lively, Cavachons are often less demanding in exercise than Cavapoos. This makes them suitable for older individuals or those with a more sedentary lifestyle who desire a happy companion with more moderate activity.
• Owners Looking for a Calm and Cuddly Pet: Cavachons excel in being affectionate and love to cuddle. They are perfect for anyone seeking a lap dog that enjoys spending hours relaxing with their owner.
• Owners in Mixed Pet Households: Due to their generally mild and amiable nature, Cavachons can integrate well into homes with other pets, including cats and other dogs. Their ability to adapt to different pets’ temperaments can make for a harmonious household.

General Considerations

Both breeds will require regular grooming and veterinary care to manage their health and coats. Potential owners should also consider the financial and time investments required for training, grooming, and health care. Choosing between a Cavapoo and a Cavachon ultimately depends on aligning the breed’s characteristics with your personal lifestyle, household dynamics, and what you’re looking for in a canine companion.