DESIGNER BREEDS

The Cavalier, as a purebred dog, comes from generations and generations of breeding dogs with a common gene pool giving a predictable characteristic appearance, temperament and function. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Club, USA (CKCSC) is dedicated to the health and welfare of the Cavalier breed while conserving the typical happy, laid back, small sized, quiet family companion. “Cavashons”, “Cavapoos” or “Cockaliers” are nothing more than mixed breed dogs and expensive mongrels.

Because their genetic makeup is not all Poodle, or Bichon, or Cavalier, the resultant offspring are a complete genetic gamble. These crossbred dogs are subject to all of the genetic diseases of both breeds and offer none of the advantages of knowing the health status of the sire or dam. Temperaments can vary from the hyper Poodle to the barky Bichon to the quieter Cavalier – there’s no telling what you will get. Their coat may be wiry, silky and shedding, wavy, straight and may mat so badly that a trip to the groomer monthly could be a necessity. There is no guarantee that these dogs will not shed as they may indeed have inherited the coat texture of the Cavalier rather than the Poodle or Bichon.

If you must have a non-shedding breed, then BUY a non-shedding purebred so that you know, without a doubt, that this dog will not shed. If you want a mixed breed, then go to a shelter and rescue one. You will have as much knowledge about how this shelter dog will grow up, as you will with a Cavashon or a Cavapoo. You will have the added advantage of rescuing a shelter dog from being euthanized.

CKCSC breeders are expected to demonstrate honesty, integrity and fairness in dealing with purchasers of puppies. Since there are no Cavashon or Cavapoo organizations with ethics guidelines, these boutique breeds are a deliberate attempt to mislead and take advantage of the general public by promising all sorts of health and shedding guarantees when, in fact, there is no scientific research to back up their statements.