Finding a Cavachon Breeder: Some Questions to Ask
I get many requests for help in finding a breeder. When I was looking for a puppy, I did not know where to start. The first thing I did was check the local dog pounds to see what they had. I called several and none of them had any puppies at the time. So, I started an “informational search” to see if I could determine what breed would be best for our family. I had actually thought the Cavalier King Charles sounded really good and while trying to find out as much information about them as I could I happened to stumble across something about a Cavachon. Well, one look at a picture of one and it was love at first sight! Besides looks, however, the breed we chose needed to have good qualities that fit our family and our lifestyle. The more I read about Cavachons, the more excited I got and knew for absolute certain that a Cavachon was the right dog for us.
Once I finally settled on the breed of puppy we wanted I did an internet search for Cavachons breeders but did not find too many, and no local ones. I started looking at a couple of the more popular puppy adoption web sites. I made a list of potential puppies and potential breeders. Since there were none nearby, I knew I would either have to drive (alot) or have the little guy shipped.
Once I had my list, I tried to do research on the breeders going so far as to find the addresses (sometimes that was difficult) and using google maps satellite views to zoom in on the property to see what it looked like! I was so nervous about getting a puppy mill dog. Then, I called each of the breeders, telling them the puppy(s) I was interested in. I basically interviewed the breeder, I had searched the internet to help me figure out what I should ask. I had a list of questions ready, asked all of them, and took notes. Some breeders did not let a customer visit their place, that was an immediate red flag for me – I would want to be able to see the place where my puppy was born and nurtured the first few weeks of it’s life. Even though I knew I could not visit most of the places, I wanted to know that that would have been an option – I did not start out telling them I would not be able to go there.
I also asked about the parents of the puppy I was interested in – size, age, health, # of litters, anything else I could think of. I asked for pictures of the parents and a current picture of the puppy to be sent to me. If someone did not cooperate with my requests, again, it raised a red flag.
I wanted to know if Cavachons were the only type of puppies they bred. That would not necessarily have been a deal breaker, but a breeder who is completely devoted to only Cavachons was my preference.
Did they breed only F1 Cavachons? THIS I felt was very important.
I tried to find reviews, but most of the time the only testimonials were on the web site and I did not necessarily trust those, a breeder can post whatever they want on their web site and make it look real.
I ended up choosing a place that was in Iowa , I live in Ohio. The owners were a husband and wife team. To this day, I do not know much about the actual home, but in talking with them on the phone several – make that many – times, I was content with all of the info and conversations we had. They never made me feel like I was bothering them and welcomed my calls. I could often hear puppies in the background and I liked that, I figured it meant they were in the house. They would return my call if I left a message. They worked with me on getting Kasey on the airline and flight I asked for.
The puppy that was first on our list was actually gone by the time I made up my mind to pick the breeder that I did. I was very, very sad, but we knew we had better hurry and make our second choice quickly. Luckily Kasey (Casey back then) was still there and we put our deposit down immediately – I know now that is how it was meant to be
There are many rules about flying a puppy, they actually go as cargo. A breeder who ships their puppies needs to be familiar with those rules. The part of the plane they are in is temperature controlled but the outside temperatures still have mandatory high and low limits in order to transport them. The puppy also has to be at least 8 weeks old. We had Kasey shipped to us the day he turned 8 weeks as we were so anxious to get him.
Our story ended very well! We got a perfect little puppy who greatly enriches our lives every single day!
I know there are things I missed here. I will add more as time goes on, no doubt!
Tags: 
Hi Judy, Hope you found a great puppy, I’m sorry mine were a bit out of your price range, I had sent you an email about contacting a breeder closer to you, I think they are near Akron, Briarthorne I believe is the kennel name, hope you find a wonderful puppy!
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I am from California and have 2 Cavachons priced in that price range.
Yes $3,000 to $5,000 forces one to save (or at least us) for a bundle
of love that you will never regret sacrificing for. Our precious girls
came from Foxglove Farms.
Everyone loves our girls, and our girls they love them. Foxglove Farms
hand raises their babies which makes a huge difference in their lives.
Our groomer and vet office spoil them every chance they get. Our
girls are 4 and 2 years old with their wonderful loving personalities
going strong.
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Maybe Terry Cross at Foxglove Farms…excellen.My name is Connie Stone and I wrote the above comment. Want to add that Terry has wonderful products for the Cavachons, such as a wonderful probiotic as well as shampoo/creme rinses.So check out Foxglove Farms, Terry Cross
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Foxglove Farms …Terry Cross. She is a very dedicated breeder and her puppies are adorable and of high quality. Do a search for blogs and pictures.
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Anonymous Replied:
September 1st, 2015 at 11:49 am
My name is Connie Stone and I wrote the above comment. Want to add that Terry has wonderful products for the Cavachons, such as a wonderful probiotic as well as shampoo/creme rinses.So check out Foxglove Farms, Terry Cross
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can anyone recommend a reputable breeder in the NY / NJ / CT area?
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Are there any good and reputable cavachon breeders in No Carolina?
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Shelley Replied:
July 8th, 2015 at 5:09 am
I’m not located in North Carolina but am located in Kentucky. I breed Cavachonc, but don’t have any at the moment. We only had one female Cavalier and a male Bichon, who are our family pets. We we recently had our female fixed and bought another female that should go into heat around August. The puppies are raised in our home and are played with daily. I always stay in touch with those who provide a home for our babies and check on them regularly after they leave. I’ve had several repeat buyers. The puppies are also started on some basic manners before they leave our home. I don’t ship puppies but I am willing to meet people with a puppy, although I prefer you come to our home so you can see where they are raised. I know once someone sees how ours are raised they will be comfortable with their purchase. Our puppies are treated like family. They have had their nails clipped, have had baths, have had their food played with while they are eating and other things to get them ready. I’m not a large breeder and I don’t have many litters. I also don’t require a deposit for puppies. I don’t want anyone to feel obligated, I want my babies to only go to homes who truly want them. And I cry every time one leaves. We only raise first generation Cavachons. My phone number is 859-620-9663. Feel free to call and ask any questions you may have.
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Looking for a Cava chon breeder in Georgia. Had a 7 year old Yorkichon who was recently hit and killed by a car. Need to find a puppy by mid July. My heart has been ripped out. Need some love from a loving puppy.
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Shelley Replied:
July 8th, 2015 at 5:13 am
Barbara I’m located in Kentucky and am a small breeder of Cavachons. Please see my earlier response to another person looking for a Cavachon. I,don’t ship but may be close enough for you to drive or may be able to meet you, although I prefer for people to come to my home and meet the parents, me, and the other puppies. Seeing where and how they are raised I have no doubt you would feel completely comfortable with them having the best upbringing they could have. Feel free to call and you can judge for yourself.
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Looking for a cavachon breeder in Georgia. Had a 7 year old Yorkichon who was hit and killed by a car. Need to find a puppy. This house is too quiet. A part of my heart has been ripped out.
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We got 4 dogs at different times one passed away of a doggie anurism after 1 year 3 are real skiddish we think one of them was used as a kick ball and we believe they had no human Co tact. We got them at Rosegate kennel greenbrier ark. The lastime I was there I saw quite by accident what looked to be a puppy mill.
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I’m in central Maryland… Any reputable Cavachon breeder in or around MD would be greatly appreciated.
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Diana Replied:
June 23rd, 2015 at 5:24 am
DC dog finders have a great reputation
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Anyone know of a reputible breeder near Erie PA?
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Did you ever find a breeder in the Chicago area? We’re from WI and would travel there to visit a Cavachon breeder. Thanks!
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Who is the breeder in Florida?? I would love to find one here
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How has your dog from there turned out as an adult?
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Hi Lori –
I’m curious… Why did you decide not to use Briarthorn?
Thank you!
Abby
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Looking for reputable Florida breeder, not puppy mill. Thanks
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[comment removed due to inappropriate language]
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Diana Replied:
March 6th, 2015 at 6:37 am
Mine do the same. Also from Foxglove
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Denise Replied:
March 6th, 2015 at 7:42 am
Really?? How old is yours? I’m so disgusted because I tried to talk to Terri and she won’t return my calls. This dog is either stubborn or clueless!!! My husband is losing patience and wants her gone!
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diana Replied:
March 21st, 2015 at 8:26 pm
denise, what is your email, I am hardly on here
Anonymous Replied:
April 29th, 2015 at 3:27 pm
How old is she?where are you located? I am considering get a cavachon.
Terry Replied:
September 1st, 2015 at 7:05 pm
Denise, I don’t find your name as having purchased one of our puppies in the time-frame you mention, I could be mistaken, but honestly, I would never have placed one of my babies with someone who could describe a little dog in such terms as you have used.
If indeed this is a puppy purchased from Foxglove, I’m asking that you return him or her for a refund and I will find this unloved little dog another home,
I have raised Cavachons for nearly a decade, my puppy people write me letters on a daily basis describing how wonderful their Cavachons are, how EASY to house train.
I have written an eBook on puppy care,
I have a blog called thepuppydiva.com which helps puppy owners raise obedient and loving companions.
I even have a resource called “The New Puppy Owners Quick Start Guide” to be sure that my puppy people get the right start, that my babies are loved and easy to continue training in their Forever Homes.
If indeed this is a real exchange and not just some fabricated attempt to damage my reputation, please email me directly at Foxglovedesignerpuppies@gmail.com and I will make arrangements to put this Cavachon in a loving home asap.
I try my very best to be prompt and my Inbox will show almost 20,000 emails, all of which I’ve saved, which show the friendships with my puppy people that span many years.
I’ve had almost a million visitors to my site and countless visits to our beautiful home, I also have an elderly mother in frail health who recently was found nearly comatose after having had a heart attack while alone at her home next door. To say I have a busy life is a vast understatement, not an excuse just the truth.
Again, if this is a legitimate complaint I am sorry for having failed Denise and Diane, but I am more sorry still that I wasn’t able to see signs that this was not a proper home for a puppy.
If I was remiss in replying to “Denise” or “Diane”, I am most profoundly apologetic, but again, no dog of any breed deserves such a home.
My typical puppy client is quite simply a delight,,, I can’t imagine selling a puppy to someone who could refer to a dog in such venomous terms, I might be wrong but suspect this exchange and it’s authenticity… I have contacted the moderator of the forum t to try and provide contact information so I can right a wrong or clear my name whatever the case may be.
The internet is unfortunately an easy place for anyone to say anything at all about anybody they decide they want to attack. There is no way to remove remarks that may be untrue, no way to defend oneself against slander without going to great lengths legally which unfortunately at times becomes the best way to protect oneself.
The following is a letter that I recently received, it is typical of the dozens of letters I receive, this is what I strive for a a dog breeder, and what all good dog breeders want I’m sure.
Dear Terry,
I just want to take a minute to tell you again how special Simon is. He’s such a sweet, affectionate, calm, and loving puppy! And he’s already taken to structure with bed time and potty training. Only one accident in the house and that was when he was with my boys! Also, he’s a great follower on the leash. A walk around the block and he’s panting and ready for a nap. So cute! Of course we get stopped everywhere we go so people can pet and admire him.
I can’t thank you enough. I’ve never had such an amazing puppy! (And I think he’s the cutest of them all, including the new ones!)
You make miraculous puppies.
All best, Annette”
Dear Forum Moderator, I apologize for my lengthy post here, I had an email from an outraged client of mine who had seen the exchange above and let me know about it. I must confess that I don’t get time to follow this forum as much as I’d like though I do enjoy dropping by and reading all the Cavachon news, it’s a great tool for the Cavachon lover.
Most Sincerely,
Terry Cross
Foxglove Farm
Anonymous Replied:
September 1st, 2015 at 11:53 am
Where do you live??
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diana Replied:
March 20th, 2015 at 8:23 pm
They are about two. One boy, one girl. We put ours in doggy diapers. Go on the Cavachon forum on FB, there are tons of people that would take her. Tell them you want her rehomed and why.
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REMOVED Replied:
April 10th, 2015 at 6:40 pm
[comment removed due to inappropriate language]
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Jessica Replied:
April 30th, 2015 at 3:01 am
Just like with any puppy you have to work with them, they will get it.
I have a now 13.5 week old puppy who still has accidents I’ve had him almost 2 weeks, in that short bit of time he has learned how to use the doggie door, he doesn’t yet get that he should go outside to make wee wee’s and poop but we are getting there. Sometimes I have to walk outside with him and tell him to pee, other times I have to walk out in the back yard to get him to pee or poop and then we have a woooooooo hoooooooo yipppeeeeeeeee good boy verbal party.
As far as puppy pads, I had some foam board that I was going to use for something instead I use them to tape the pee pee pads to it so he won’t drag them around.
You have to be consistent with the dogs. You see them hunched over you pick them up and take them outside even if you caught them in the act of peeing or pooping, specifically to where you want them to do their deed. It works, however it also takes a lot of work. If yours are not trained then maybe they have to big of a territory to run a muck. Make it smaller. I remember my mom covering the entire kitchen floor with newspaper (we had a huge eat in kitchen) when training our pekeapoo Pooka, little by little removing the paper making sure she did her business on the paper than removing it all together.
Oh and I bought mine from a small breeder who are snow birds and brought him down from NY to Myrtle Beach. Trust I get frustrated but I also have to remind myself it’s been less than 2 wks. lol
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Terry Replied:
September 7th, 2015 at 5:38 pm
This is Terry Cross and I cannot believe that the Cavachon Cove moderator would allow such a slanderous unfair and untrue post to remain on an open forum. A post that uses the most inhumane language to describe intended treatment of a Cavachon, by an owner who brags about stapling the poor dog’s body parts? Unbelievable language and a cruel cruel owner to say the least.
If this is indeed one of my puppies and not a fabricated exchange to discredit me and my Cavachons, I would like to be contacted as I want this abused dog returned so I can place him or her in a loving home immediately. I am offering a full refund for the return of this dog, again, I can find nothing tracing back to her in this time frame.
I didn’t even know this post was here until an outraged customer of mine contacted me. I have no record of this woman and would hope that I screen my puppy buyers in such a way as to never place an innocent life in such hands as these.
I have tried to contact the moderator repeatedly unsuccessfully and my next steps have been initiated with my attorney who has transcripts of this exchange. In addition the local humane society for this individual will be contacted as soon as I am advised of her location, this home needs to be investigated as they are unfit to be allowed to own a dog of any breed much less the most gentle of all breeds a Cavachon.
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Lori Replied:
September 7th, 2015 at 7:40 pm
I can’t believe anyone would talk about any animal this way! Puppies are just like children…they take time, attention, love and patience. Without these things you are never going to house break one! I would hope you would not treat your child this way for having an accident! Both of my girls came from Foxglove and I highly recommend Terry and her puppies! Terry genuinely loves her babies and gives them the best start in life. Both of my girls had a really good grasp on housetraining when I got them but of course they were still puppies and had accidents but what can you expect out of a baby?! I’ve been to Terry’s house and met both her and her husband and know they are wonderful Christian people and only want the best for their babies. For someone to talk about her puppies like this and talk about mistreating them is a disgrace. I’ve recommended her to family and friends and can honestly say I know of 7 of Terry’s puppies in my area that are extremely loved and cared for. I could never imagine even joking about abusing any animal let alone one of my girls. They are my world and I wish they would live forever but when the day comes I only hope that Terry is still raising her precious babies! I Pray you found your baby a loving home that will give her the time and attention she needs.
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Marj Replied:
September 7th, 2015 at 9:36 pm
OMG what slander is this? Atlanta loves Foxglove Cavachons and Terri Cross. After working with Foxglove Farms, there is no other place to consider. I know of 4 of Terri’s pups who are the most wonderful little creatures ever and are loved so very much. By the way, Terri does answer her emails and phone calls. It saddens me that such venomous comments and accusations have appeared in this forum. If you are looking for the very best of Cavachon breeders who is a class act all around, contact Terri at Foxglove. And that’s the truthhhhhhh!
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Libby Replied:
September 8th, 2015 at 9:12 am
I have purchased two dogs from Terri Cross at Foxglove Farms. The first one flew from Ohio to New York for a long lay over and then to Atlanta. After being on a plane for ten hours, the little puppy hopped right out of her crate and began kissing us and wiggling all over. She was adorable and eight years later is still adorable! Sandy was easy to train, loves people, and is such a joy to us. When Sandy was two, we contacted Terri and purchased another Foxglove puppy. Maggie had a much shorter flight and was just as happy and loving when released from her crate. Maggie and Sandy bonded right away. They are family to us and go on our vacations, play with our grandkids, ride our jet skis and in our boats, and enrich our lives in many ways. Terri Cross is an excellent breeder and has always responded to my emails or calls. My Cavachons are super healthy and hardy. We have recommended Foxglove to friends who are also very pleased with their dogs from Foxglove. Both dogs were expensive to purchase but worth every penny and more! Do they arrive completely trained? No, of course not. Terri gets them started on crate training and potty training. They are babies, and it is up to you to continue the training. All puppies need someone to teach them and to be alert for signs of needing to go. Although I wish my Cavachons would live forever, I know they won’t. When that day comes, I will be calling Terri Cross from Foxglove Farms for a new Cavababy to love!
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R they big when they r older?
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Wondering if anyone has experience (other than the writer) with Briarthorn or Monarchy?
Thanks!!
Jennifer
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Karen Replied:
March 2nd, 2015 at 11:48 am
Hi Jennifer,
I got my Emmy from The Monarchy; she’s now 17 months. She has the BEST personality; she absolutely loves everyone, but she is also a good watch dog (although once the person is in the house, she licks them to death!!!!). I absolutely would get another cavachon from the Monarchy. Melanie is wonderful; she sends out constant updates on your puppy while you’re waiting and is a huge help when you take your puppy home. She will try to help you with any problems you might run into, and they run a wonderful question/answer site. Contact them right away because there is a large waiting list…as you can tell, I highly recommend them!!!
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Does anyone have any specific experience with Silver Paws Cavachon breeder in WA? I’m currently researching a number of breeders to ensure that whichever pup we choose comes from a reputable background. So far happy with Briarthorne but they have nothing available at the moment. Possibly reserving a pup from Gleneden. I just wanted to cover all the potential options. Thank you all in advance.
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Jennifer Replied:
March 23rd, 2015 at 4:37 pm
If you get a pup from Glen Eden please go there in advance and ask to see where the puppies are raised. Make sure the puppy is seen by a vet shortly after you purchase him. Ask Glen Eden if their dogs are checked by a vet before going home with a family. I purchased a cavachon from 4everpuppies and he is such a love and healthy. Can’t imagine our life without him. No problems at all. Would highly recommend them.
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Katherine Replied:
March 24th, 2015 at 6:33 pm
Hi Jennifer
I’ve tried contacting 4everpuppies thru their website but have gotten no response. Do you have an email or number? Thanks!
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Did you find any information on this breeder? Looking to purchase a puppy from them.
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Dave that’s horrible! How is your Cavachon doing?
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Looking for a Cavachon breeder near Springfield Missouri!
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Cavachon Lover Replied:
January 11th, 2015 at 5:30 pm
There are two breeders north of Little Rock, AR which would be about a 5 hour drive for you. Tip of the Ozarks – Karen is the owner, she has some 6 week old Cavachons that will soon be available. I purchased my Cavachon from her. Rosegate Kennels is another one. I’ve heard great things about them, and would consider buying one from them.
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My girl has gotten the same way! She is so mean. Almost 2 yrs old. Im not sure what to do
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Shirley, I am 65 yrs old and recently retired and live alone. I just brought home my 8 week old Cavachon puppy, Cooper. I have never had a puppy before and was hesitant to take on the responsibility of crate training and house breaking, etc., all the distressing info out there about the trials and tribulations of raising a dog from puppyhood. I’m not sure what you mean when you say you don’t think it’s “fair” to take on a puppy, but I can tell you I love Cooper, and am so glad I brought him home as a puppy. We are bonding (as with a baby) and he is affectionate, intelligent, and active…but also just calm enough to meet my personality characteristics as well. Don’t be afraid…..he/she will be worth it! ba
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does anyone know a breeder in Florida?
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I would love to know the name of the breeder in FL. thanks!
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Yes she still yaps too! I would never go with this breed again in my opinion! They r adorable but mine poops all over my house and yaps! Most annoying dog I ever owned!
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[comment removed due to inappropriate language]
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