Many dog owners have been going the way of smaller dogs over the last few years. They’re cute, cuddly, easy to handle, and many are kid-friendly. As any dog enthusiast will tell you, if you want to be sure you’re getting a great dog – healthy, good looking, well-behaved – then you need to go through a breeder.
Dog breeders breed dogs for specific purposes. To be a good dog breeder, an in-depth understanding of genetics as well as canine health is required. It takes many, many years of experience to acquire this knowledge and many breeders really don’t have adequate know-how. Breeders generally create hybrid dogs for their genetic health and to combine the traits of two dogs into one. Some people refer to these hybrids as “designer dogs.”
One breed of these so called “designer dogs” is the Cavachon. It’s a cross between a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a Bichon Frise. They’ve become very popular for their hypo-allergenic and non-shed properties, as well as their general character as happy, calm, friendly dogs. Cavachons are a great pick for families, children, or just as a companion, especially if you have allergy problems.
Finding the right Cavachon breeder is an important first step towards finding the right dog. Many dogs are plagued by genetic defects that cause serious health problems. Hip dysplasia is one such condition and some eye abnormalities, heart conditions, and deafness are also proven to be inherited. Specifically for Cavachons, their non-shed property can be accidentally bred out for generations if proper care isn’t taken.
Most often, the breeder will care for their puppies for a time; they usually aren’t immediately given to the new owners at birth. It’s important to know how the dog is treated during this time as abuse during this period can emotionally scar the dog for life and cause further problems to manifest throughout life. Things like excessive barking, potty training, and general emotional well-being can be affected by abuse. While most breeders love what they do and would only give the utmost care for their puppies, there are what are known as “puppy farms” – designed to mass produce puppies for profit only. These often go under the guise of being credible breeders when it is not the case.
Before purchasing a new dog from a breeder, be sure to check out their credentials. Ask about their experience as a breeder, their breeding practices, and the treatment their dogs receive. Don’t stop there – seek several references to add further credibility for the breeder. Find the right breeder and enjoy the right dog for you.