Welcome to the Cavachons by Design Blog!

Have you ever yawned and noticed your dog yawned right after you? You’re not imagining things. Research shows that dogs can “catch” human yawns—a behavior once thought to be uniquely human or limited to primates. But what’s even more fascinating? This quirky canine habit might actually be a sign of empathy.

The Yawning Contagion: What Is It?

Contagious yawning happens when seeing or hearing someone yawn triggers a yawn in you. It’s common among humans and is believed to be l

At Cavachons by Design, we love hearing how our puppies grow into beloved family members. Some of the most meaningful moments come from updates like this one—from Carole, who welcomed one of our beautiful Cavachons into her heart and home years ago.

As a sports fan with the last name Miller, Carole and her husband found the perfect name for they’re new pup: Bode—inspired by none other than Olympic gold medalist Bode Miller. And just like his namesake, this Bode has a champion spirit all his own.

From the very beginning, Bode made an unforgettable impr

Cavachons Included! 😉

You talk to your dog, right? (We all do—no shame!) But here’s the incredible part: your Cavachon might actually understand way more than you think. Studies have shown that most dogs can recognize up to 165 words, and some super-smart pups—like border collies—can learn over 1,000!

Now that’s something to bark about! 🐶💬

🗣️ So… What Kinds of Words Do Dog

At Cavachons by Design, we work so very hard to provide you with the healthiest puppy possible! We spend a lot of time caring for your puppy before he/she goes home to live with you. Not only do we breed the best possible parents but we also provide the best possible nutrition to ensure long, healthy lives!

We provide our adults and puppies with NuVet Plus. This ensures beautiful coats, strong teeth, sharp vision, and strong healthy immune systems! Your puppy has been on NuVet Plus from the beginning of his/her creation! We feed high-grade food to our adults and puppies but we also give them NuVet Plus to fill in the gaps.

NuVet Plus is designed to combat free radicals and assist in providing your puppy/dog with the vitamins, minerals, herbs, and antioxidants they need to

As pet parents, we want to do everything we can to ensure our dogs live healthy, vibrant lives. One of the most important (and often overlooked) ways to support your dog’s overall health is by nurturing their gut. That’s where a high-quality probiotic like Honest Paws Pre+ Probiotics comes in.

Let’s dive into why probiotics are essential for your dog’s health — and why Honest Paws is one of the best choices available.

Did you know that up to 70% of your dog’s immune system is housed in their gut

What many people may not know about me is that in addition to being a dedicated Cavachon breeder, I’m also a proud member of the FBI Citizens Academy Alumni Association. Through this unique opportunity, I have the privilege of teaming up and serving with the FBI in our community in meaningful ways—from visiting hospitals and participating in outreach programs to shopping for, delivering and handing out toys during the holiday’s. As part of this incredible experience, we’re granted behind-the-scenes access in D.C. each year to places like FBI Headquarters, Quantico, Interpol, Secret Service, the Pentagon, and the DEA in Washington, D.C.

Understanding Your Cavachon Puppy’s Early Development

When you bring home a new Cavachon puppy—or even just see a litter of tiny, sleeping pups—it’s easy to be charmed by their sweet faces and soft coats. But did you know that puppies are actually born completely blind and deaf?

It’s true! Like many mammals, puppies enter the world in an incredibly delicate and dependent state. Their eyes and ears are closed at birth and don’t begin to function until several days later. Here’s a closer look at this fascinating phase of puppy deve

When you bring home a brand-new puppy, every little feature is adorable—especially that tiny button nose! But if you’ve noticed that part of your puppy’s nose may be pink instead of fully black, you might be wondering if it’s normal.

🌸 The Science Behind Puppy Nose Pigment

Puppies are born with immature pigmentation, and their nose color can take several weeks—or even months—to fully develop. Many puppies start out with pink noses that gradually darken as melanin production increases. This is completely natural and varies by b

Unlocking the Secret World of Scent Through a Dog’s Extraordinary Sniffer

Have you ever watched your dog stop mid-step, nose lifted, tail wagging slowly, completely enraptured by a scent you can’t even perceive? To you, it’s invisible—but to your dog, it’s a vivid narrative.

Dogs don’t just smell their world.
They read it.
They feel it.
They write it in scent.

And their noses? They are nothing short of poetic instr

Whether you’re already a proud Cavachon parent or simply adore these sweet, teddy bear–like pups, we’d love to welcome you to the Cavachons by Design community!

Our monthly newsletter is where Cavachon lovers come together to celebrate the joy, fluff, and love that these amazing companions bring into our lives. 🧡

💌 What You’ll Get as a Subscriber:

When you sign up, you’ll receive:

✅ Heartwarming Cavachon Stories from fam

Bringing home a Cavachon puppy is a joyful milestone—but for families who live far away, it can also come with logistical questions. At Cavachons by Design, we’ve made it our mission to make that transition smooth, safe, and stress-free. That’s why we offer several thoughtful transportation options for our Cavachon puppies, including our trusted Flight Nanny Service.

Paws & Personality: Why Cavachons Are Born to Be Social Stars

At Cavachons by Design, we’ve always said our puppies are more than just adorable—they’re little bundles of personality, joy, and heart. Whether it’s greeting guests at the door, hamming it up for the camera, or charming strangers in a store aisle, Cavachons seem to have an effortless gift: they know how to steal the spotlight.

Just take one look at this photo of our fluffy pup sporting a baseball cap while shopping, and it’s clear—Cavachons are born social stars. 🐶✨ But what makes them such naturals when it comes to social situations? And how can you help your Cavachon shine even brighter? Let’s take a look!

Boating with Your Cavachon: Tips for a Safe & Fun Day on the Water
By Cavachons by Design

There’s nothing quite like a sunny day out on the water—and if you’re a Cavachon parent, you may be wondering if your sweet pup can come along for the ride. Good news: Cavachons typically love being included in family activities, and boating can be a wonderful bonding experience when done safely.

Whether you’re planning a peaceful lake cruise or an afternoon on a pontoon with friends, here’s how to keep your Cavachon safe, happy, and comfortable on the boa

☀️ A Safety Tip for the “Dog Days” of Summer 🐾

Did you know that when the air is just 86°F, asphalt can heat up to 135°F? That’s hot enough to burn your dog’s paw pads in under a minute.

🐶 At Cavachons by Design, we care deeply about every pup’s well-being—even after they leave our arms and join your family.

📌 Paw Safety Tips: 🔹 Walk early in the morning or later in the

Tillie’s Vermont Adventures: A Cavachon Bringing Joy to Everyone She Meets

Meet Tillie, a delightful Cavachon from Cavachons by Design who now calls Vermont her home. Tillie’s life is nothing short of extraordinary, thanks to her loving mom, Judy, who owns Proctor Gas. Not only is Tillie a beloved family member, but she’s also a valued part of the Proctor Gas team.

On any given day, you’ll find Tillie at the office, where she’s a regular fixture, bringing smiles to customers and employees alike. She’s especially fond of the service manager, who seems to hold a special plac

Why Your Cavachon May Need UV Eye Protection

Your Cavachon’s adorable, soulful eyes are one of their sweetest features—but did you know they can be just as sensitive to the sun as yours?

Whether you’re heading out for a sunny walk, boating trip, or car ride with the windows down, it’s worth asking:
Should your Cavachon be wearing sunglasses?

Let’s explore the reasons why

Flying with Your Cavachon: A Stress-Free Guide to Airline Travel

Traveling with your Cavachon can be an exciting adventure—whether you’re visiting family, exploring new places, or just taking a much-needed getaway. These charming little companions are known for their adaptability and calm nature, making them excellent travel buddies. Still, flying with a dog—especially for the first time—can feel a bit overwhelming. The key to a smooth experience is preparation.

In this post, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about airline travel with your Cavachon, from choosing the right carrier to ensuring your pup fe

And How to Find the Right Groomer for Your Beloved Pup

Cavachons are known for their soft, wavy, hypoallergenic coats and adorable teddy bear appearance—but those sweet looks don’t come without care! Grooming plays a vital role in keeping your Cavachon healthy, happy, and looking their best.

Whether you’re a first-time Cavachon parent or simply want a refresher, this guide will help you understand how often your pup should be groomed and how to choose a groomer you can trust.

Corn cobs may seem like a harmless treat or a fun chew toy for your dog—but the reality is quite the opposite. Many well-meaning pet owners believe giving their pup a leftover corn cob is a tasty and entertaining way to keep them busy. Unfortunately, this common misconception can lead to serious and even life-threatening consequences.

At Cavachons by Design, we care deeply about the health and safety of every dog, and we’re here to help you make the best choices for your four-legged family member. Below, we’ll explain why corn cobs are so dangerous an

When it comes to finding the perfect emotional support or therapy companion, few breeds compare to the Cavachon. A delightful mix of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Bichon Frise, Cavachons are known for their gentle nature, affectionate temperament, and intuitive bond with their humans. These lovable little dogs are more than just cute faces—they’re exceptional companions for those seeking emotional comfort, companionship, and therapeutic connection.

What Makes Cavachons Ideal Emotional Support Animals?

Socializing your Cavachon puppy is a crucial step in raising a well-adjusted, confident, and friendly adult dog. Cavachons, a delightful mix of Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Bichon Frise, are known for their affectionate and sociable nature. However, proper socialization during their formative weeks and months is essential to help them reach their full potential as loving companions. In this guide, we’ll explore the importance of socialization and provide practical tips to help your Cavachon puppy develop into a well-rounded adult dog.

Socialization is the process of exposing your puppy to a wide variety of people, animals, environments, and experiences during their critical developmental period. For Cavachons, this per

Setting the Standard of Breeding Excellence! 

If you’re a dog lover searching for the perfect companion, you’ve likely come across the adorable Cavachon breed. These charming little dogs capture hearts with their friendly personalities, hypoallergenic coats, and teddy bear-like appearance. But where did Cavachons come from, and how did they become such popular pets? Let’s dive into the fascinating history and origins of this unique designer dog breed.

Why Families Choose Cavachons by Design Again and Again

At Cavachons by Design, we’re honored to see many of our puppies go home with families who come to us through repeat adoptions or heartfelt word-of-mouth referrals. This isn’t just a coincidence—it’s a testament to the care, dedication, and exceptional quality that define every Cavachon we raise.

In today’s world of endless options, families don’t make decisions lightly—especially when it comes to bringing home a new furry family member. Many of our clients share that they chose us only aft

Training your Cavachon to sit is not only a practical skill but also a bonding experience that strengthens the connection between you and your furry friend. Cavachons are intelligent and eager to please, making them excellent students for training sessions. With positive reinforcement, patience, and consistency, your pup will master this command in no time. 

Why Teach Your Cavachon to Sit?  

Teaching your Cavachon to sit lays the foundation for other essential commands and helps establish good manners. Whether you’re at home or out on a walk, a well-trained Cavachon is more manageable and can stay calm in various situations. This fundamental skill is a cornerstone of Cavachon obedience and makes future training easier. 

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