Cavachon

The Cavachon is a combination of a Bichon Frise and a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. The Bichon Frise parent originated in the Mediterranean area. They were descended from dogs called barbets, or water spaniels, who were crossed with small white lap dogs. Four types of “barbichons” were created - Bolognese, Havanese, Maltaise and Teneriffe bichons, which were developed on the Canary Island of Teneriffe, and became known as Bichon Frises. It is thought they were brought there by Spanish sailors. Later, Italian sailors found them and brought them home with them where they were prized by Italian nobility. The breed was included in several works by artist Francisco de Goya. The Bichon was brought to the United States in 1955 and became eligible to enter the American Kennel Club's Miscellaneous Class in 1971. As for the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel parent's history, the original Toy Spaniel is depicted in famous paintings of the 1600s to 1800s, showing that this sweet breed once had a place in the hearts of the royals. Treasured for their gentle nature, the Spaniel was a favorite, in particular, of King Charles II who reigned over Britain in the late 1600s. In fact, this king's namesake is where this Spaniel got their name. After the King died, the Pug became the favorite companion of the nobility; however, years of breeding and refining across the globe brought the Cavalier King Charles to North America in 1952, although they were not added to the roster of the American Kennel Club until 1996. The Cavachon is an appealing combination of the two parents.