CAVACHON OR CAVAPOO? WHICH ONE IS FOR YOU?

Cavachon Puppy

Cavapoo Puppy

​At least once a week (maybe more often) a new member of an online forum will ask owners, breeders and shoppers which of these two hybrids they should choose. Unfortunately, the person posting the request rarely provides enough personal details (how many kids, size of home, time for the dog, how often they exercise the dog, etc.) for people to give educated opinions so instead everyone just starts the normal back and forth about how great their dog is leaving the prospective shopper with less of an answer than they'd hoped for. Additionally, those who actually have experience in both breeds get worn out of answering the same question over and over and therefore often don't chime in at all. In an effort to post our reply in one place for reference, we thought we'd write this post and invite you to share it whenever you see this question presented.

When someone is asking for a recommendation between a Cavapoo and a Cavachon, what they are really asking for is a recommendation between a Bichon Frise and a Poodle as the other 1/2 of the dog is consistently the same (for purposes of this post, we are discussing only F1 hybrids and not F1b or F2 although in those instances this comparison is even more important). Here is that comparison: 

APPEARANCE

1. Bichon - Bichon Frises are a small, playful breed that come in one lovable size (just under 12 in. tall, 7-18 lbs.). Male Bichon Frises tend to be larger than female Bichon Frises. The Bichon Frise’s classic fluffy look is created by their double coat (a thick, soft inner coat and a wiry, curly outer coat). Their coats are hypoallergenic (which means they’re non-shedding and produce less dander), just like the Poodle’s and are white or slightly apricot in color. There are no other color variations in the Bichon and not much variation in size which leads to more predictability (or some would say boredom) in Cavachon litters. Because the Bichon parent is always brining the white coat gene to the table, any color variations come from the coat of the Cavalier and are often mured (or fade with age) due to the white influence. 
2. Poodle - Poodles are an elegant, but energetic breed coming in nine coat colors. They come in three different sizes: Standard (15-22 in. tall, 40-70 lbs.), Miniature (11-15 in. tall, 15-17 lbs.), and Toy (no more than 10 in. tall, 6-9 lbs.). Male Poodles are usually larger than female Poodles. The Poodle’s hair is single-coated, curly, and also hypoallergenic. Because of this, Cavapoos come in a wider range of colors and sizes than their Cavachon counterparts. When considering a Cavapoo it's incredibly important to check on the size of the poodle parent.

In the appearance comparison, we think Cavapoos are a clear winner - the 9 color combinations in a poodle and the 4 variations in a Cavalier result in some striking puppies that often hold their color better than Cavachons (whose coloring is lightened by the always white Bichon) and the size variations allow for mote options to suit your family and your lifestyle.
            

TEMPERAMENT - Just as personality is an important element in any friendship so is a breed’s temperament. Understanding a breed’s temperament will help you choose your canine friend. Please see our other posts on the temperament of the purebred Cavalier King Charles Spaniel as it's truly what makes these hybrids so special but for this comparison it's back to Poodle versus Bichon to understand the difference. 
Both the Poodle and the Bichon Frise thrive on attention. As a consequence, both breeds can suffer from separation anxiety when left alone for long periods of time. This means they can become very anxious over being separated from their owners and their behavior may turn aggressive and destructive. Though both breeds may seem similar in temperament (affectionate, sensitive, and intelligent), there are several differences between the two, mainly a result of their being bred for very different purposes.. 

1. Poodle -  Despite Poodles being currently categorized as companion dogs, Standard Poodles were originally bred to be duck hunters. A Poodle’s personality can vary with its proportions, as it is possible for a dog’s temperament to be associated with its size. While Standard Poodles are incredibly active, they are often more composed than their smaller counterparts. Miniature Poodles tend to be the most energetic whereas both the Miniature and the Toy Poodle are generally more playful—and possibly more mischievous—than the Standard Poodle. However, regardless of size, all Poodles are exceptionally smart, loyal, sensitive, and known to possess a unique, proud disposition. The benefits of these traits are that Poodles are extremely easy to train and easily become accustomed to new environments. They are great with kids, as is the CKCS. If you have children who will want to play with the dog, it may be best to avoid a Cavapoo with a toy poodle parent due to its small, fragile body. Poodles become quickly attached to their owners and family, and as a result, are very protective of their home and a bit suspicious of strangers.
2. Bichon - The Bichon Frises, on the other hand, view everyone as friends and have always been bred to be companion dogs. Although diminutive in size and true lap dogs, Bichon Frises are curious, animated, and clever—always ready to roam and run. As a new owner, you may need to doggy-proof your home and closely watch your Cavachon, as they love to chew. Very bright and eager to please, Bichon Frises are highly trainable and receptive to learning tricks. Among the friendliest dog breeds, they easily warm up to and constantly seek attention from everyone they meet. They also adapt well to new environments. Their friendly personality makes them compatible with children, other dogs, and cats.

In the temperament comparison, we can't help but prefer the Bichon and therefore the Cavachon hybrid. While individual owners will disagree and state they have a "highly energetic Cavachon" or a "Hard to train Cavapoo" we are comparing the average dog and stereotyping in a way that always generates controversy. It's our experience that the Poodle (and therefore Cavapoo) has higher energy levels, is more alert, sensitive to distractions, and less trusting of strangers. The Poodle is also more territorial and prone to let out a warning bark than the Bichon Frise. When looking for a companion animal that's best for apartments, lazy owners (like us) or people who aren't trying to teach 100 tricks to their dog, we just love the Bichon / Cavachon for it's laidback nature and the way it combines so beautifully with the similar traits of the CKCS to create a perfectly chill pet that loves everyone.  

HEALTH - All breeds of dogs have the potential to suffer from genetic health problems, just as all humans have the potential to inherit certain diseases. A reputable breeder will be honest and knowledgeable about common health problems and will have screened to avoid them where possible. Health issues of the Cavalier are one of the main motivations for these hybrid breeds so it's important to be aware of the health issues the Poodle or Bichon may also bring to the table. Both Bichon Frises and Poodles are generally healthy breeds with a life span of 12-15 years. Still, each has its own list of medical predispositions and since the health of the dog’s parents greatly contributes to its own health, it is important to find a responsible breeder who will disclose health clearances for both of the dog’s parents, as their health may be the best predictor of your puppy’s health. With the recent introduction of DNA screening in breeding stock it's hopeful many of these issues won't soon be so common. Here's what to look for in each breed: 
           

1. Poodle - There are conditions which all Poodles may be prone to develop and other conditions that are more likely to affect a Poodle only because of its size. So again, it's important that the breeder let you know what size the parent poodle is. For example, while all Poodles are predisposed to Hip Dysplasia, only the Toy Poodle is also susceptible to Cushing's Disease. Poodles tend to be vulnerable to the eight following medical conditions (including the two already mentioned) which are more serious and costly to treat than common illnesses: Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease, Sebaceous Adenitis, Progressive Retinal Atrophy, Addison’s disease, Collapsed trachea, Hip dysplasia and Thyroid issues (both hyperthyroid and hypothyroid), as well as bloat. Toy Poodles are also susceptible to Cushing’s Disease, Tracheal collapse, Bladder stones and Skin tumors.
2. Bichon - The Bichon has a shorter list of health issues and statistically is more likely to die from old age or cancer than a genetic defect. The medical issues that are noted and present include allergies (often severe skin allergies), Hip dysplasia, Patellar Luxation, Epilepsy, Liver Shunt and Kartagener's Syndrome. They can also be prone to ear infections. 

In the health comparison, we prefer our odds with the Cavahon due to the generally healthier nature of the Bichon. However, so long as you are getting a Cavapoo from a breeder that does proper OFA screening and DNA testing then this shouldn't tip the scale in favor of either dog. If deciding on a Cavachon, it's of particular importance to make sure BOTH parents have had their hips screened as it's a common issue in both dogs and therefore the hybrid breeding doesn't diminish it's chance of occurrence as it does with many of these genetic issues. 

EXERCISE - Some people love to exercise their animals, others don't. If you are particularly active and looking for a running companion, I would suggest that neither of these breeds is for you. Neither breed needs tons of exercise but there are some differences to consider here: 

1. Poodle - Since Poodles, specifically Standards, were bred to be duck hunters, they need regular exercise and mental stimulation. They love walks, enjoy swimming, and view fetch as an appealing activity due their natural instinct to retrieve. The American Kennel Club recommends at least an hour a day of exercise for Poodles. Even though Poodles do great in almost any environment, including apartments, it’s essential they get to burn off their excessive energy—which may not be possible if left inside the cramped quarters of a home all day.
2. Bichon - Even though Bichon Frises love to lounge in your lap, they love to play too. It is easy for Bichon Frises to meet their exercise needs by partaking in family activities or “playtime.” The American Kennel Club recommends up to 30 minutes of exercise a day for them.

In the exercise comparison, there really is no winner. Generally speaking, Cavaliers are on the lazier side so bred with a Bichon you could end up with a real couch potato (we have one that has to be forced to go on a walk) as where a Cavapoo may take on a little more energy from the poodle parent. Do a true assessment of how much exercise and time you have for the dog and choose accordingly. 

GROOMING - Keep in mind this is a grooming comparison of Poodle versus Bichon so you can understand their coat differences. Once intentionally bred with a Cavalier, the coat changes substantially but this should help you understand why Cavachons and Cavapoos can take on very different appearances. 

1. Bichon Frises don’t require as much grooming as the poodle, although their hypoallergic coat needs to be brushed at least two or three times a week to prevent tangles and mats. This need is not changed by the mixing of the Cavalier coat. Bichon Frises are double-coated dogs and therefore should never be completely shaved since this takes away their protective undercoat which may never grow back normal. The same is true of a Cavachon despite owners regularly ignoring this advice and giving their dogs a serious summer cut. Also, because mucus and discharge can easily accumulate around the Bichon Frise’s eye area and lead to eye problems, their eyes routinely need to be cleaned. We will write a separate post on the never ending "tear stain" question as well. 
2. Poodles require more extensive grooming. The Poodle’s hallmark coat, unless kept clipped, needs to be brushed almost daily to prevent tangles and mats (which could lead to skin care problems). This need may be reduced by the breeding with the Cavalier so check with your groomer for a recommendation. Even if you decide to keep your Poodle’s coat clipped short, he will need to be brushed, bathed, and trimmed about every three to six weeks to be kept in good condition. It’s good to consider whether you would want to pay a professional groomer or take the time to learn how to properly groom the Poodle’s complicated coat.

In both breeds (and their hybrid counterparts), ears and eyes should be checked and cleaned on a consistent basis, it’s common for both to develop ear and eye infections.
            
AND THE WINNER IS . . .  really up to you. We have to confess that Cavachons are perhaps our favorite breed to walk the earth but it's simply because we're lazy. While you will always hear from someone who has an "overly energetic Cavachon" or a "lazy Cavapoo" the opposite is generally true. If you want a higher energy dog that loves to learn but also demands more exercise to avoid destructive behaviors then the Cavapoo is more likely for you. If you like to spend your Saturdays watching football and want a friend and foot-warmer, then you might prefer the Cavachon. The truth is that either dog, when well bred and properly trained, can fit almost any family, any space and adapt to any situation. And luckily, there is no wrong choice.