Cavachon

The Cavachon is a modern cross between the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Bichon Frise. The combination became increasingly popular around the turn of the 21st century as demand grew for small intentionally bred companion crosses. There is no universally documented founding breeder, and similar crosses may have occurred independently before the Cavachon name became common. Both parent breeds have long histories as companions, making the Cavachon somewhat different from designer crosses combining working breeds. Cavaliers descend from the small spaniels favoured in British aristocratic households, while the Bichon Frise belongs to a Mediterranean family of little white companion dogs that later became popular in European courts and as performing dogs. Cavachons are generally bred to be social household companions. Their appearance can vary significantly: some have a silkier Cavalier-like coat, while others inherit the denser curls of the Bichon. Colour patterns can include white, cream, apricot, black, or chestnut markings. Size and temperament also vary because the cross does not have a fixed standard. Although Bichon ancestry may reduce shedding in some individuals, a Cavachon cannot be guaranteed to be hypoallergenic. Major traditional kennel clubs do not recognize the Cavachon as a distinct breed, so its identity remains based on its parent combination rather than a closed standardized population.