Friday, June 28, 2013

Cavachons Are A Hypoallergenic Product Of Companion Dogs

By Kathy Kaufman


Cavachons are one of the most registered mixed breeds in the United States. These small to medium sized dogs were first bred in 1996 from pure bred Bichon Frise and Cavalier King Charles Spaniel parents. Their lineage is from dogs known for providing good companionship through the ages. The puppies will come with papers from the American Canine Hybrid Club.

The Cavashon is among several hybrids developed to possess certain desirable attributes. As with some of the others, it has been bred for a desired low shedding attribute. Since it is a cross breed, it has a more replenished gene pool than pure breeds and is relatively healthier as a result.

Its Cavalier King Charles Spaniel ancestral line has been long beloved of English aristocracy. In this particular case, King Charles II is the identified source recorded in artworks with his canine companion. The American record is relatively recent and dates to 1956. This dog is a sweetnatured, gentle and active miniature breed that seeks to please. It fits in an urban setting as well as it does in country surroundings.

These dogs have a smooth, silky coat. The breed standard has four accepted shades. There is the white, tan and black tricolor, the white and chestnut Blenheim shade, a solid red Ruby hue and a tan and black shade. The size is similar to adolescent spaniels, before they mature.

The Bichon Frise is a sturdy and small dog with a cheerful disposition. Its historical lineage is a Spanish water spaniel breed that later became a popular French royal court accompaniment during the 16th century. It has dark-eyes that have a questioning appearance and a curling tail.

This species has a double coat that resists shedding. For this reason it is one of recommended breeds for allergy sufferers. The outer coat is rough textured and in undercoat has a silky texture. To prevent matting grooming is necessary. The coat shade is white, with possible apricot, cream or buff shading in some places on the body. The character of this species is energetic with a mild temperament.

The Cavachons are generally 10 to 15 inches in height and weigh between 10 and 25 pounds. As with hybrids there will be offspring that may be smaller or larger than their typical weight. The hair color is often white, black, tan or sable colored or a mix. The hair has a silky and loose, wavy texture. It is considered hypoallergenic because shedding is not a factor owners need to worry about. The average life expectancy is between 10 and 12 years, which is about the same as its lineage.

This is not a dog that can be left to its devices for a long stretches of time. Cavachons are affectionate pets. Families will prize their nonaggressive temperament. They can mix well with other pets, when socialized early. Training and socializing early is recommended to avoid bad habits from setting in. Training is easy with persistence and consistence. A trained pet will adapt to diverse environments. Regular grooming, play time and walks are required for this energetic species. Health problems that may surface are skin sensitivities, ear infections, heart problems and hip dysplasia. First generation crosses have been found to be more reliable for possessing the low shedding Bichon Frise trait.




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