Cavachons, the charming cross between the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and the Bichon Frisé, are affectionate, intelligent and ideal for families. But their soft nature and sensitive digestion mean they benefit most from thoughtful care. This guide answers the 50 most common questions Cavachon owners ask – with expert tips and links to helpful, natural products from Poppy’s Picnic.

General Care and Wellbeing

1. How often should I groom my Cavachon?

Cavachons have soft, wavy coats that require daily brushing to prevent matting, especially around the ears, legs and tail. Schedule professional grooming every 6–8 weeks. Skin and coat condition are closely linked to diet.

2. Do Cavachons shed a lot?

Cavachons are considered low-shedding, but they do shed lightly throughout the year. Shedding may increase with stress or poor diet. Regular brushing helps control loose hairs, as does feeding a natural raw diet

3. How much exercise does a Cavachon need each day?

Cavachons are moderately active. They need around 30 to 60 minutes of exercise daily – a couple of walks, short play sessions, and mental stimulation. They’re not as high-energy as working breeds, but they can become mischievous if under-stimulated. Portion-controlled meals like Poppy’s Picnic meatballs provide fuel for play without overfeeding.

4. Are Cavachons prone to health problems?

They can inherit issues like mitral valve disease, eye problems, and skin sensitivities. Many also have delicate digestive systems. 

5. What’s the average lifespan of a Cavachon?

Cavachons typically live 12–15 years. Lifespan can be extended with regular vet care, consistent exercise, and feeding a diet that supports digestion and prevents obesity – like Poppy’s Picnic’s balanced raw meals, which are naturally low in carbs and rich in fresh protein.

6. How often should I bathe my Cavachon?

Every 4–6 weeks is ideal unless they get muddy. Use a gentle, pH-balanced shampoo to avoid skin irritation. 

7. What is the best way to clean a Cavachon’s ears?

Cavachons can be prone to ear infections due to their floppy ears. Wipe them out weekly with a vet-approved cleaner and check for redness or smell. 

8. How do I know if my Cavachon is overweight?

You should be able to feel their ribs with light pressure and see a waistline from above. Weight gain is common in small breeds. Poppy’s Picnic’s feeding guide helps you portion meals correctly, and their raw food is naturally satiating without unnecessary carbs.

Independent trade organisation, UK Pet food, has worked with vets to create a useful sizeometer for dogs so it's easier to track your dog's weight. Download it here 

9. What are the best toys for Cavachons?

They enjoy soft toys, puzzles, and treat-dispensing games. Cavachons are clever and playful, so toys that combine food and mental challenge work best. Try hiding ambient meatball pieces inside a snuffle mat or puzzle feeder for satisfying enrichment.

10. How can I keep my Cavachon’s coat shiny and healthy?

Daily brushing, regular bathing, and a nutrient-rich diet make a big difference. Poppy’s Picnic raw meals provide omega-rich animal fats and are free from synthetic preservatives, which supports coat health from the inside out.

Behaviour and Temperament

11. Are Cavachons good with children?

Yes, they’re affectionate, gentle and enjoy human company. Their friendly, patient temperament makes them excellent with children, especially if introduced early. Always supervise young kids and use calm feeding rituals with Poppy’s Picnic meals to establish predictable daily routines that benefit the whole family.

12. Do Cavachons get along with other dogs and pets?

Cavachons are sociable and usually do very well with other pets. Early introductions are key. Use treats like Poppy’s Picnic meatballs, broken into small pieces, to reinforce good interactions during socialisation.

13. Are Cavachons aggressive?

No, they are not known for aggression. However, fear or frustration may cause reactive behaviour. Consistent training, socialisation, and avoiding ultra-processed foods (which can impact mood and digestion) all help. Poppy’s Picnic’s natural recipes support calmer, more balanced behaviour.

14. Why does my Cavachon chew everything?

Puppies often chew while teething. Adult dogs chew to relieve stress or boredom. Offer safe chews and stuffable toys. Freeze Poppy’s Picnic raw meals inside a Kong for a long-lasting, soothing chew option.

15. Why is my Cavachon so clingy?

Cavachons are companion dogs and love being near their humans. Clinginess is normal, but building independence is helpful. Leave them with a frozen enrichment toy filled with Poppy’s Picnic food when stepping out to create positive associations with alone time.

16. Can Cavachons be left alone during the day?

Yes – but not for long periods. They prefer company and may develop separation anxiety if left too long. Build alone time slowly and offer comfort with enrichment feeders filled with treats

17. Do Cavachons bark a lot?

They can be vocal, especially if bored or alerting. Prevent excessive barking with regular exercise, mental stimulation, and calm feeding rituals using a lick mat with Poppy’s Picnic food to promote focus and relaxation.

18. Why is my Cavachon digging up the garden?

Cavachons aren’t known for digging, but boredom, scent trails or stress can cause it. Redirect their attention with foraging games or hide treat pieces in a digging box to encourage more appropriate behaviour.

19. Are Cavachons hyper?

They can be playful and lively, but not excessively hyper. They tend to settle quickly once their physical and mental needs are met. A daily walk, some enrichment and a satisfying meal like Poppy’s Picnic raw will usually be enough to calm them.

20. How can I calm down my Cavachon?

Structure and routine are key. Calming activities like sniff walks, puzzle feeders and slow, relaxing mealtimes help. Serve Poppy’s Picnic food on a lick mat to help slow eating and encourage calm, mindful behaviour.

Training and Development

21. Are Cavachons easy to train?

Yes, they’re bright, food-motivated and eager to please. They respond best to positive reinforcement. Keep sessions short and fun, and reward consistently with tiny pieces of Poppy’s Picnic meatballs.

22. What’s the best age to start training a Cavachon?

Start from 8 weeks. Begin with toilet training, name recall and simple cues like “sit.” All Poppy’s Picnic ranges are suitable from weaning age, so you can start training with natural food rewards right away.

23. How can I stop my Cavachon from pulling on the lead?

Use a comfortable harness and reward calm walking beside you. Practise in quiet areas and reinforce success with small bites of Poppy’s Picnic ambient meatballs.

24. Why won’t my Cavachon come when called?

Recall takes time to build. Practise indoors, then outside on a long lead. Make recall extra rewarding by using high-value food like Poppy’s Picnic raw to reinforce every successful return.

25. How do I toilet train a Cavachon puppy?

Take them out regularly, especially after meals and naps. Reward outdoor toileting immediately. Feeding Poppy’s Picnic on a schedule helps make their toilet routine more predictable.

26. How can I stop my Cavachon from jumping up?

Ignore jumping, wait for all four paws on the ground, and then reward. Asking for a “sit” before greetings and offering a small reward from Poppy’s Picnic reinforces calmer hellos.

27. What are the best training commands for a Cavachon?

Sit, stay, come, leave it, and settle. Their intelligence makes them quick learners, especially when trained with food motivation 

28. Should I crate train my Cavachon?

Yes – crates help with toilet training and provide a calm space. Make it inviting, and feed meals inside the crate to build positive associations.

29. How do I handle separation anxiety in my Cavachon?

Build up gradually, start with minutes. Use enrichment feeders or toys filled with Poppy’s Picnic food before leaving to keep them occupied and reduce anxiety.

30. How much mental stimulation does a Cavachon need?

Moderate amounts daily. They enjoy training games, scent work and food puzzles. Hide treats in a snuffle mat or treat toy to keep their minds engaged and avoid boredom.

 

Health and Breed-Specific Issues

31. Are Cavachons prone to hip dysplasia?

Hip dysplasia isn’t especially common in Cavachons, but joint issues can occur, particularly in older dogs or those that are overweight. Maintaining a healthy weight and feeding a diet rich in natural protein and healthy fats – like Poppy’s Picnic raw meals – can support muscle tone and reduce joint strain.

32. What are common allergies in Cavachons?

Skin sensitivities, ear infections, and digestive upset are often signs of food intolerances. Many Cavachons react to grains, synthetic additives, or poor-quality proteins. 

33. How often should I take my Cavachon to the vet?

Ideally once a year for a check-up and booster vaccinations. Puppies, seniors, or dogs with health conditions may need more frequent visits. 

34. What’s the best age to neuter or spay a Cavachon?

Many vets recommend neutering between 6 and 12 months, but this can vary depending on the dog’s size and development. Recovery is smoother when supported by a natural, nutrient-rich diet like Poppy’s Picnic raw food, which aids tissue repair and maintains energy.

35. Do Cavachons get ear infections easily?

Yes – their floppy ears can trap moisture and debris, leading to bacterial or yeast infections. Clean ears weekly and avoid allergens in food. 

36. What are signs of heart problems in Cavachons?

Coughing, lethargy, shortness of breath, and reluctance to exercise can be warning signs. As Cavaliers are prone to mitral valve disease, this may pass to Cavachons. Annual heart check-ups and feeding a low-sodium, unprocessed diet like Poppy’s Picnic can support long-term heart health.

37. Are Cavachons more prone to arthritis as they age?

Yes – especially if they’ve been overweight or highly active. Reduce impact on joints by maintaining an ideal weight.

38. What vaccinations does my Cavachon need?

Core vaccinations include distemper, parvovirus, adenovirus, and leptospirosis. Non-core vaccines like kennel cough may be advised depending on lifestyle. 

39. How can I care for my senior Cavachon?

Senior Cavachons need shorter, more frequent walks, a soft bed, and a gentle, easy-to-digest diet. As digestion slows, steamed or softened meals may be helpful – Poppy’s Picnic raw food can be gently warmed for older dogs

40. What’s the difference between a Cavachon and a Cavapoo?

Cavachons are a mix of Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Bichon Frisé, while Cavapoos are a Cavalier-Poodle cross. Cavachons tend to be more laid-back and have wavy, cottony coats, while Cavapoos are often curlier and more energetic. Both benefit from a raw diet like Poppy’s Picnic, which supports coat, digestion, and mood.

 

Lifestyle and Suitability

41. Are Cavachons good for first-time dog owners?

Yes, Cavachons are affectionate, low-maintenance, and eager to please. Their gentle nature and moderate exercise needs make them perfect for new owners. Feeding Poppy’s Picnic raw meals helps simplify nutrition by removing guesswork and artificial extras.

42. Can Cavachons live in flats or apartments?

Yes, they adapt well to smaller homes as long as they get daily walks and attention. Use food-based enrichment like puzzle feeders stuffed with treats to keep them stimulated indoors.

43. Do Cavachons enjoy swimming?

Some do, but many prefer paddling or shallow water. Always supervise, and go at their pace. Follow swim sessions with a light snack.

44. Are Cavachons suitable for people with allergies?

Cavachons are often described as hypoallergenic, though no dog truly is. They do produce less dander than some breeds. Regular grooming reduces shedding and dander.

45. Can Cavachons be used as therapy or assistance dogs?

Yes, their calm nature, small size and loving temperament make them great therapy dogs. A fresh, stable diet like Poppy’s Picnic raw food supports mental focus and even energy throughout the day.

46. Do Cavachons travel well?

They’re portable and typically travel well if used to car journeys. Pack familiar items and lightweight treats which don’t require refrigeration.

47. What size crate is best for a Cavachon?

A crate around 24–30 inches is usually ideal. It should be big enough for them to stand and turn comfortably. Feed them Poppy’s Picnic meals in the crate to help build a positive, calm association.

48. How do Cavachons handle hot weather?

They can struggle in the heat, particularly with thicker coats. Avoid mid-day walks, provide shade, and offer cooling treats like frozen bone broth cubes or frozen lick mats topped with raw food.

49. Are Cavachons good hiking companions?

For short hikes, yes – they enjoy exploring but don’t have the stamina of larger breeds. Bring water and a few ambient meatballs as an energy-boosting snack along the way.

50. Can Cavachons be trained for agility or obedience competitions?

Yes, they’re clever and enjoy challenges. They may not be the fastest, but they’re eager to learn. Use positive reinforcement and high-value treats like Poppy’s Picnic meatballs to keep training sessions fun and rewarding.