Cavachon vs Cavapoo: Key Differences Between the Breeds
If you’re considering adding a fluffy companion to your home, you might have come across both Cavachon and Cavapoo puppies. Both are delightful companions with origins rooted in the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, but they differ in several important ways. This guide covers everything UK prospective owners need to know about these two beloved crossbreeds.
What Is a Cavachon?
The Cavachon is a hybrid between the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and the Bichon Frise. First bred in the United States in 1996, its aim was to combine the gentle temperaments of both parent breeds. The name is a portmanteau of Cavalier and Bichon, and these dogs have become popular for their low-shedding coats, adaptability, and loving personalities.
What Is a Cavapoo?
The Cavapoo blends the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel with the Poodle, and it has been around longer, dating back to the 1950s. This cross was created primarily to produce a low-shedding, allergy-friendly companion with the intelligence of the Poodle and the affectionate nature of the Cavalier. Cavapoos are one of the most popular crossbreeds in the UK.
Appearance: Key Differences
Cavachons tend to have a round face, soft wavy coat, and slightly more compact body. Their coats can range from white to apricot to tricolour. Cavapoos typically have a curlier coat (inherited from the Poodle parent), larger eyes, and a slightly longer muzzle. Coat colours include red, black, white, and apricot, sometimes in combination.
Cavachon vs cavapoo temperament
Both breeds are known for being gentle, sociable, and great with children and other pets, making them ideal family dogs. Cavachons are often slightly calmer, while Cavapoos tend to be more energetic and playful, reflecting the active Poodle parentage.
Size and Weight
Both breeds come in a range of sizes depending on whether a toy, miniature, or standard Poodle was used in the Cavapoo breeding, or the size of the Bichon for the Cavachon. Typically, Cavachons weigh between 5 to 9 kg, while Cavapoos range from 5 to 12 kg depending on Poodle parentage.
Health Considerations
Both crossbreeds can inherit health conditions from their parent breeds. From the Cavalier side, heart conditions (notably Mitral Valve Disease) and neurological issues (Syringomyelia) are concerns. From the Bichon and Poodle side, eye conditions, joint problems, and skin issues can occur. Responsible breeding and health testing of parent dogs are vital.
Grooming your cavachon vs cavapoo
Cavachons require regular brushing and professional grooming every 6–8 weeks to prevent matting. Cavapoos often have curlier coats that also need regular grooming. Despite their low shedding, neither breed is truly hypoallergenic, though they may be better tolerated by some allergy sufferers.
Price and Availability in the UK
In 2025, Cavachon puppies in the UK typically cost between £800 and £1,500, while Cavapoo puppies range from £1,000 to £2,500. Always purchase from reputable breeders who can provide health test results for both parents.
Which is Right for You?
If you prefer a calmer, slightly lower-energy companion, a Cavachon may suit your lifestyle better. If you want a highly intelligent, playful dog that can be trained easily and thrives with activity, a Cavapoo may be the better choice. Both breeds make wonderful family pets when properly socialised and cared for.