General Appearance
The Cavachon is a small, sturdy, and well-balanced dog with a cheerful and affectionate demeanor. They exhibit the elegance of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and the charm and fluffiness of the Bichon Frise. Their expressive eyes and soft coat give them an irresistibly endearing look.
Size
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Height: 12–16 inches (30–41 cm) at the shoulder.
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Weight: 15–35 pounds (7–16 kg).
Proportions should be harmonious, with no part of the body appearing out of balance.
Coat and Color
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Coat: Soft, silky, and wavy, ranging from medium to long length. The coat is low-shedding and hypoallergenic, making regular grooming essential.
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Colors: Common coat colors include:
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White with apricot, cream, or tan markings.
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Tri-color (white, black, and tan).
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Blenheim (white and chestnut).
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Head
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Skull: Rounded, moderately broad, with a slightly domed forehead.
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Muzzle: Medium length, neither too long nor too short, with a well-defined stop.
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Eyes: Large, round, and expressive, reflecting the breed’s gentle and friendly temperament. Eye color is typically dark brown.
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Ears: Set high and hanging close to the cheeks, covered with long, silky hair.
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Nose: Black and well-proportioned.
Body
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Neck: Medium length, slightly arched, blending smoothly into the shoulders.
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Chest: Moderately deep with well-sprung ribs.
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Back: Level and firm, with a strong topline.
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Tail: Carried high with a slight curl, often feathered, and wagging enthusiastically.
Legs and Feet
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Forequarters: Straight and well-boned, with elbows close to the body.
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Hindquarters: Strong and muscular, with moderate angulation.
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Feet: Round, compact, and well-padded.
Movement
The Cavachon moves with grace and energy, exhibiting a light, bouncy gait. Movement is free and effortless, with good reach and drive.
Temperament
The Cavachon is friendly, affectionate, and outgoing. They thrive on companionship and are excellent with children and other pets. Intelligent and eager to please, they are relatively easy to train. Cavachons are adaptable and suitable for families, singles, and seniors alike.
Health
The Cavachon is generally a healthy breed, but potential concerns include:
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Patellar luxation.
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Mitral valve disease.
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Allergies and sensitivities.
Responsible breeders should prioritize health testing for both parent breeds.
Care Requirements
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Grooming: Regular brushing to prevent matting and occasional professional grooming.
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Exercise: Moderate daily exercise, including walks and playtime.
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Diet: A balanced diet appropriate for small to medium-sized breeds.
Disqualifications
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Aggressive or overly shy behavior.
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Extreme deviation from the breed's size or proportions.
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Severe underbite or overbite.
This breed standard aims to describe the ideal Cavachon for both companionship and appearance, celebrating the traits that make this designer breed so beloved.
