Choosing between the Cavachon vs Cavapoo can often feel like trying to choose between cuteness and more cuteness!
How will you ever make up your mind?
Trying to pick the cuter dog is not a good strategy – they are both just too precious!
A better approach is to learn everything you can about each breed, from size and temperament to trainability and health issues.
This side-by-side comparison can be much more helpful in identifying which hybrid dog is the best pet dog for you.
What’s the Difference Between Cavapoo and Cavachon?
The Cavapoo and Cavachon are both hybrid dogs, which means they receive genetic influence from two different purebred parent dogs.
Both the Cavapoo and Cavachon will have traits from the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.
The Cavachon will also have traits from theBichon Frise.
The Cavapoo is part Poodle – usually Miniature Poodle.
Here is a handy little primer for you:
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel + Bichon Frise = Cavachon
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel + Poodle = Cavapoo
Cavachon vs Cavapoo – Which Pet to Choose?
This side-by-side focused look at the Cavachon vs Cavapoo identifies important similarities and differences between these two popular hybrid dog breeds.
The term hybrid or designer dog is very confusing to many people.
But this term simply means that a breeder has intentionally crossbred dogs from two different purebred lineages.
The most common reason a breeder will do this is to produce healthier puppies with strengths from each breed line.
The theory behind this is called hybrid vigor.
A Brief Introduction to Hybrid Dog Genetics
Different hybrid dog generations will have different characteristics.
F1 Generation
The F1 generation will have the most variability between puppies, even within a single litter.
This is because both parent dogs are full purebred dogs.
That makes it impossible to know in advance how much either purebred parent will influence a given puppy.
F1b Generation
An F1b generation has one parent dog is a purebred dog and the other is a hybrid dog.
As a result, the F1b generation will show slightly less variation between puppies.
E.g., an F1b Cavachon will have one parent that is a Cavachon and one parent that is either a Spaniel or a Bichon.
F2 Generation
In an F2 generation, both parent dogs are hybrid dogs.
E.g., an F2 Cavapoo’s parents are both Cavapoos, but the grandparents were all purebreds.
This will reduce the variability between puppies within a litter and between litters.
If you have your heart set on a specific set of characteristics for Cavachons or Cavapoos, whether it be appearance, temperament, coat type, health, or something else, you may fare best by choosing a breeder that breeds F2 generation or later hybrid puppies.
Size Difference Between Cavapoo or Cavachon
The Cavachon can be bred in two sizes: small and toy.
The small or standard Cavachon can weigh anywhere from 15 to 20+ pounds.
Meanwhile, the toy Cavachon typically weighs between 10 and 14 pounds, with typical heights ranging from 10 to 13 inches.
The Cavapoo generally weighs between 7 and 18 pounds (with a miniature Poodle parent).
Typical height ranges from 9 to 13 inches.
Cavachon vs Cavapoo Shedding and Grooming
Both the Cavachon and Cavapoo are commonly described as being hypoallergenic dogs.
A more accurate description would be low- to no-shedding dogs.
Since the Cavachon’s Bichon Frise parent and the Cavapoo’s Poodle parent are both single-coated dogs, neither sheds visibly.
However, just like all dogs, both of these dogs actually do shed.
Their hair just gets trapped in their coat and doesn’t fall to the floor.
If it is very important to you to have a non-shedding dog, look for an F2 or later generation hybrid dog breeder.
Cavachon vs Cavapoo Temperament and Personality
The Cavachon tends to be a more laid-back dog with a lower energy level.
On the other hand, the Cavapoo can be more high-spirited and active.
Difference Between a Cavachon vs Cavapoo As a Family Pet
Both dogs have been bred to be lap-sized and cuddly.
But both Cavachons and Cavapoos are small even as adults, so you should only bring these dogs into a home where you can supervise interactions with children to ensure safety for all.
Cavachon vs Cavapoo Exercise Needs
The Cavachon or Cavapoo will be happy with indoor play and mild daily walks.
Cavachon vs Cavapoo Intelligence
Both the Cavachon and the Cavapoo are very smart and can easily learn tricks!
Cavachon vs Cavapoo Training and Socialization
Both the Cavachon and Cavapoo are bred to be companion pet dogs to people and are typically enthusiastic participants in training.
The Cavachon may be slightly easier to train due to this dog’s naturally lower energy level.
Cavachon vs Cavapoo Life Expectancy
The Cavachon can live 13 to 15 years, while the Cavapoo can live 10 to 14 years.
Health Problems: Cavachon vs Cavapoo
Breeding for hybrid vigor aims to improve the health of the puppies while preserving strengths from two purebred breed lines.
Part of this process involves health testing purebred parent dogs to ensure known genetic health issues are not being bred into future generations!
Health Testing: Cavachon vs Cavapoo
The Canine Health Information Center (CHIC) is the best reference aspiring dog owners have for discovering information about genetic health issues so you can ask your breeder the right questions.
CHIC currently recommends that Cavalier King Charles Spaniels be tested for hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and also eye and cardiac issues.
Cavachon
In addition to the King Charles tests, CHIC currently recommends that Bichon Frise be tested for Legg-Calves-Perthes disease.
Cavapoo
CHIC says that miniature Poodles have the same needs as the Cavalier, except they do not need cardiac testing.
Cavapoo or Cavachon Puppies Price
Both Cavapoo and Cavachon puppies generally start at around $700 to $800 but can be as expensive as $6,500+.
(paid link) In the lucrative world of designer dogs, don’t automatically assume that a higher price tag means a better dog, or a lower price tag means a bargain.
A responsible breeder needs to cover the costs of health testing parent dogs, stud fees, veterinary care for mom and her puppies, worming, flea treatment and vaccinations.
If a puppy is very cheap, it’s likely the puppies’ best interests have been sacrificed at some point to keep costs down.
Look at prices from several breeders in your area to find out a realistic benchmark price.
Cavapoo or Cavachon Which Is Better for Me?
We hope reading through this comparative article about the Cavachon vs Cavapoo has helped you determine which dog will be the best fit for your lifestyle and family life!
Have you already made the choice between Cavapoo or Cavachon?
Which dog did you bring home?
Tell us which, and why, in the comments section!
More Breed Comparisons
We’ve got loads of other breed comparisons for you to check out. Take a look at some of them below:
- Alaskan Malamute Vs Siberian Husky
- Cockapoo vs Labradoodle
- Scottish Deerhound vs. Irish Wolfhound
Resources
Cross, T., “What Is a Cavachon?,” Foxglove Cavachon Puppies Kennel, 2018.
Crockett, N., “Cavapoo Breed,” Crockett Doodles Kennel, 2018.
Murch, J., “All About Cavapoos,” Poundlane Cavalier Poos Kennel, 2018.
Terbush, T., “What Is a Cavachon?,” Cavachons from The Monarchy Kennel, 2017.
Beuchat, C., PhD, “The Myth of Hybrid Dogs….Is a Myth,” The Institute of Canine Biology, 2014.
Pauline says
I had a gorgeous Cavachon who recently passed away at 12 years of aged. He was perfect in every way. I would like to get another one. Would like to know where In Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
Laurette says
I have the best of all worlds. I have a cavachonoodle! Her Dad was a Cavalier and her mom a bichapoo (Bichon poodle mix.) She is ten years old now but very healthy. She is well trained unless a cat runs by. She is fine with cats, but gets confused if the insist on looking like they want to play “chase me”. She loves everyone but it’s very much my dog. She is always by my side. I can’t imagine my life without her. She has a lot of hair, and it is thick. I have always had a poodle mix, since I was in grade school, most living until mid teens. Bebee was a rescue, between miniature and standard poodle size but hair like a bichon/poodle mix. The next was Fluffy, a peek-a-poo that looked like a poodle with curly hair. Next was my only boy, Mr. Phufoo. He was supposed to be a full poodle but hair a bit less curly and very silkie. And now my Hunny. All were honey colored. I find trainers that raise big dogs do not understand poodle mixes. They don’t want a treat when they are in a strange place. If you very angry or try to dominate they will just give up and cease caring. They are wonderful at obedience out of sheer love for you. The only real reward is knowing you are happy with them. Most of mine were obedience trained, and some competed. They are amazing at what psychologists call “social referencing.” Hunny is so aware of my every movement, facial expression, sound of my voice.
All of these miniature dogs have been be bred to be companions and have that feature. This is also somewhat true of miniature and toy poodles, but they still come from water dogs and are a bit more active. They like to play outside and fetch, though mine have had real preference in what they want to fetch. Fluffy could find a tennis ball hidden in a drawer and Hunny will only play with her Mr. Bill toy.
dd says
I have a Cavapoo, he is 6 months old and amazing! He is great with people and everyone loves him! My whole family loves him so much and he is so easy, loveable, and perfect.
Vicky says
Looking for a cavachon
Havanese
Cavanese
Etc. for my adult daughter.
Please let me know what is B available and cost? Looking for something in the $1400 range.
Thank you,
Vicky
Parsley says
Which does better with medium sized dogs,
Cavapoo, or Cavachon? I have a 2 year old British lab and am also looking into getting a small, fluffy dog such as a Cavapoo or Cavachon and just need to know if they do well with medium sized dogs.
Laurette says
I would think Cavapoo. Standard poodles are water retrievers, and smaller sizes may have lost some of that but still retain some also. Poodles have longer legs and can run a bit longer and faster. But the dogs placement in dominance in the litter, natural temperament (which will vary between puppies in one litter) and the socialization and experiences you provide will have a influence also. The breeder will have an understanding of each puppy. It is a good idea to tell the breeder what you want and let her pick.
Wendy says
I bought a Cavapoo. Presently she is 8 months and is a pistol. I love EVERYTHING about her but I am anxious for her to mature. After researching the two breeds I decided on the poo because I felt she would remain on the small side. So far she is 8lbs.
Kelly says
I was looking for a small dog for my kids for Christmas and was all set to get a maltipoo. I had done a little research and thought this dog would be a great fit. Then the day before Christmas I went to go meet our new puppy but before I got to her, I caught a glimpse of a litter of little puff balls with the sweetest faces I had no clue what all this cuteness was about but rushed over to grab the first one I could get my hands on! I chose the one that was kinda hanging back chilling. I picked the puppy up and remember asking what breed is this???I want this one!!! She is going to be my baby …can I have her ? Wait where is the dog I was supposed to meet? . She pointed and I said I changed my mind. She responded sure but there’s another lady coming. Well, you were here first and she has others to pick from. Good because I am absolutely in with love her! She then responded you mean him? Huh? Haha! Yes, him. He is the one. Be warned the Cavachon can change anything and everything…I was set on a certain breed and was positive I wanted a female but with one look poof !!! All of a sudden I’m coming home with a male twice the size and a different breed than I had my heart set upon and I have no regrets. This is my first experience with love at first sight! The CAVACHON has been life changing and our relationship has only gotten more special since leaving that day. In the past I’ve owned a Golden retriever and a beagle lab mix. Both great dogs but here is my experience owning Bue dog my Cavachon. First, they come in 2 sizes. I have the 20 pound large version and only now realized that there’s a smaller version. If you love big dogs but need a small dog for whatever reason this little guy is a wonderful option. He isn’t prissy or fragile. Enjoys swimming and can handle longer walks and runs once he matures. There isn’t a mean bone in his body , no aggression, no issues with him getting dominant with other dogs. I even had issues with my golden trying to attack small dogs and nothing like that with the Cavachon. Which is a huge relief as I was always on pins and needles with my Golden. Do you have cats? This is one of my favorite things about him that I never considered. He adores cats. One of my cats blows him off and won’t give him the time of day. My other cat has become his best friend. They are always playing together he has learned to play without being rough. The cat loves him to pieces and licks him daily and cuddles with him for naps. It’s insane how tight they are. He follows me everywhere it’s impossible for me to ever feel unlovable with Blue by my side. My self confidence has flown through the roof. He wakes me up by licking me and and sleeps next to me on top of my head at night. When I’m reading he will come up to me and rest his head on my shoulder it bring me to tears. He is smart! Truthfully, I haven’t really taken the time to train him much past sit stay and come. But had no issues with him paying attention and he enjoys learning. A lot of people comment on his intelligence. I’m not sure I thought it was that noticeable but apparently it must be? No one ever said that about any of my other dogs. I will tell you that I had trouble house training him.I believe it was bc I was here all the time when he wS a puppy so putting him in a crate while I was here didn’t make sense, so he had some accidents. It went on way longer than it needed too bc as soon as he got neutered it stopped! Neuter early as u can!So I honestly think he was marking vs accidents. I have an 11 and 12 year old that I got him for and he is fantastic with them. My daughter and I spend hours looking at his cuteness and talking about how freaking adorable he is all day long. She claims she’s his mother but I totally am!!! Lol Lastly, Im in a substance abuse recovery program 90 days into it and Having him by my side has made all the difference. He is low maintenance so I have plenty of time to work on my recovery with meetings etc. I will say this dog is not cut out for staying at home alone for long periods of time. That’s my only issue I think with his ability to form a close attachment to his owner comes possible separation anxiety as when I leave he barks for hours I’ve been told. That makes me sad , but luckily he doesn’t destroy things. I stay upstairs mostly and he hasn’t figured out how to descend the stairs yet . He slips on wood no traction. When I go down to eat or whatever he barks at top of stairs till I return and his bark is shrill. Just know he needs to be with someone he trusts and loves as much as possible. In that respect, he is high maintenance and needy. But for my lifestyle and needs it works fine. I almost feel the same way about him haha. I actually think the Cavachon is a top choice for emotional therapy service dogs. Anyway! I know this is long but I cant say enough about the wonderful disposition of the Cavachon. Oh let me add he is a puppy so has energy but still very laid back which I love. I think the poodle brings more energy to the situation but I don’t know much else about a Cavapoo except they are smaller. I honestly think cuteness wise this guy has it all. Even as an adult he still has a sweet puppy face. I wish I could upload his picture. aThis dog has changed my life and if you allow it he can change yours too! For the better. I hope this helps anyone that is considering my favorite breed!
Sonya says
May I ask where you purchased your puppy?
William Lindsay says
I’m looking for a Cavachon female can you tell me .
Need for emotional Therapy dog
Gwen Adams says
I have a Cavachon, female, and we love her to death. She chewed up a few things when she was a pup but now she is so calm and loving, but very active when we bring her out to run and play, especially in the fall. She loves cool weather. She is 9 now and I agree she did have some separation anxiety so we decided to get her a companion. We chose a peek-a-poo. He is something else. He barks at everything and that can be very annoying at times, but we love him too. If I am ever to get another dog it will definitely be another Cavachon.
Suze says
Thank you! Our family wants a dog that will be a good fit for our home. Your articles compairing Cockapoo, cavapoo & cavachons was MORE THAN HELPFUL and I can not thank you enough for your help and support with our final decision! We’re getting a cavachon!!!!!! Now looking for a breeder in our area.. THANKS AGAIN!
Michelle says
I just bought a apricot and white little girl Cavachon. She is wonderful.
Rita Dey says
Where do you get cavachons
Nanette says
I live inNorth Augusta SC and looking for a small Cavachon. Does any one know where I can find one close to home? And, a toy size
Wendy Wilkening says
Hi, I’ve also been looking into cavapoo’s and cavachon’s. Sounds like a cavachon might be a great fit. Do you have any advice on purchasing one?
Jgxkgc says
Bought a apricot and white cavachon for my daughter, she loved it!
Michelle says
Are you from Perth too?