Cavachon vs Bichon Frise – What Is The Best Breed For You
Small breeds are extremely popular due to the fact that they are simply adorable and also that they are well adjusted for living in apartments as more and more people now live in cities and do not have access to yards.
The Cavachon and the Bichon Frise are both excellent examples of popular small breeds and as such, they share some traits. However, there is quite a lot that separates these two from one another as well.
Key Similarities
First, they are obviously both small. That is their main similarity in that it means neither of them requires much exercise, although both are quite energetic, making them perfect for living in an apartment.
They also have similar, sunny personalities. Both are always happy, as long as they are near you
Key Differences
The biggest difference between the two is their grooming requirements. The Cavachon is low maintenance compared to the Bichon Frise’s strenuous grooming regime.
They also have different appearances, so depending on which you prefer, you could have the fluffy white coat of the Bichon Frise or the soft cream and white of the Cavachon.
Pros Over Each Other
The Cavachon is much easier to groom and take care of than the Bichon Frise. This, of course, is because the Bichon Frise has a much more iconic look than the Cavachon.
While neither leaves hair everywhere, the Cavachon does shed less than the Bichon Frise.
Who Should Consider Owning Each One?
The Cavachon is perfect if you are looking for a companion or a family pet as a first-time dog owner or someone living somewhere with restricted space, like an apartment.
They are low-maintenance and easy-going, all they need from you is love and attention.
If you have experience with grooming and training and want a special dog with a classy appearance, you might find the Bichon Frise to be best in show.
Cavachon Cattle Dog
Cavachons are the result of generations of mixed breeding, with the sole purpose of creating a perfect companion dog/family pet that is suited to urban living.
All About the Bichon Frise
Bichon Frises are an adorable breed suited only to a loving home environment where it can be a companion dog or family pet.
First Impressions & History
Cavachons have existed naturally for many years. But they’ve been recognized as an official breed since 1996.
Their size and temperament suits apartment living which plays a large part in the reason for their popularity.
Size & Appearance
Though they vary in size, Cavachons are generally small, weighing only between 15 and 35 pounds and growing to be about 13 inches tall.
They don’t often have only one solid colour, most of them are a mix of cream and white.
Grooming & Shedding
Cavachons have hypoallergenic coats. Brushing their coats three or four times a week and bathing them when necessary will be all the grooming you Cavachon needs.
Lifespan
10-15 Years
Quick Facts
- They have sensitive skin and will require sunscreen in places with extreme weather.
- They are a social breed and enjoy the company of other animals and children.
- They are easy-going and will be happy with any living arrangement as long as they are near you.
- Good option for first-time dog owners
First Impressions & History
The very first thing you’ll notice about a Bichon Frise is that it looks as if it were created in a toy factory. They are incredibly cute and affectionate.
The exact history of their genealogy is a bit of a mystery, but, believe it or not, they’ve existed naturally from as early as the 14th century.
Size & Appearance
They only grow to be between 9 and 11 inches tall and 7 to 12 pounds in weight.
They have soft, fluffy, white coats which are usually groomed and styled in their recognizable, teddy-like fashion.
Grooming & Shedding
Bichon Frises do shed, but the hair they shed get stuck in the rest of their coats and need to be removed by brushing regularly to prevent mats and tangles.
That won’t be the only grooming they need. Bichon Frises have an intense grooming schedule that involves a lot of brushing, bathing and trimming.
Lifespan
12-15 Years
Quick Facts
- They have an iconic and elegant look, but this look requires a lot of energy invested in grooming.
- They are known to be quite difficult to house train.
- Their living expenses are higher than other breeds’.
- They are frail, young children should not be allowed to interact with them without supervision.
Cavachons In More Detail
Temperament & Behaviour
They have a happy disposition that is infectious. As long as they are with their loved ones they always seem delighted, which is part of their allure.
They are energetic and playful when you want to be, but they can be calm and cuddly when you want to relax. They will adapt to anything, as long as they can stay by your side.
Intelligence levels & Affections Level
Cavachons are highly intelligent and enjoy nothing more than giving and receiving affection. They are social animals and enjoy company and attention from everyone.
Training & Obedience
They are very smart and eager to please you. By using positive reinforcement and patience you can train your Cavachons to be exceptionally obedient.
Exercise Needs
They are quite energetic and active for their size, but because they are so small, only a moderate amount of exercise will be enough for them. A half an hour walk around the block and a bit of playtime at home on a daily basis will suffice.
Guard Dog or Family Pet
While they might be able to alert you to an intrusion, there is no doubt that Cavachons fall into the category of family pet rather than guard dog. They are simply too small to add any form of security.
Gets On With Other Pets, Animals And Children?
Generally, they enjoy the company of other animals and children. They are small and fragile though, so small children should not interact with them without supervision as they might easily get injured.
They can also become a little jealous when they feel like they haven’t been getting enough attention.
Who Should Consider Buying
Apart from being so adorable, the appeal of a Cavachon is its adaptability, they could be perfect for anyone. All they ask for is love and attention, apart from that they will be happy with any living situation. They make great companions, so apartment dwellers looking for a friend can’t go wrong when choosing a Cavachon.
Conclusion
Cavachons exist with the express purpose of being companions that can find any living arrangement suitable.
They are a great option for people living in the city who would like to have a pet but cannot accommodate the exercise needs of many of the other breeds. Their low maintenance, adaptability and sunny attitudes make them a great option for first-time dog owners too.
Bichon Frise In More Detail
Temperament & Behaviour
They have a cheerful attitude. They enjoy getting attention and is playful and charming.
They can be independent and curious, but they won’t ever want to be separated from you. They are quite prone to separation anxiety and can this can cause them to be destructive.
Intelligence Levels & Affections Levels
They are both highly intelligent and extremely affectionate. A lapdog in a very literal sense, they want to be with you 24/7.
Training & Obedience
They are known to be quite difficult to housetrain and will benefit from being taken to puppy training classes. Because they are so intelligent, proper training often yields great success with them.
Exercise Needs
Though they are very energetic and playful, they are small enough to tire out by playing indoors or by going for a short walk. This makes them a favourite among apartment dwellers.
Guard Dog Or Family Pet
Because it is simply too small to pose any real threat to anything, it is more suited for a role as a family pet.
Gets On With Other Pets, Animals And Children?
They are very friendly towards other animals and children, because they are so small you should always supervise them to make sure they don’t get hurt by accident.
They also need to be the centre of attention and are prone to be jealous if they feel like they are being neglected.
Who Should Consider Buiyng
If you want a beautiful dog and are prepared to invest in the necessary grooming, there are few breeds with a more iconic look than Bichon Frises. They are also good options for people with limited space, but this is not a recommended breed for first-time dog owners.
Conclusion
The Bichon Frise is a wholly unique breed. As is often the case with any strange or exotic animal, they require quite a bit of maintenance, but if you are able to take care of them and give them the attention they need, you could find a beautiful, charming family pet in a Bichon Frise.
