The Cava-Shell dog is a mix of a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a Shetland Sheepdog. It has a medium size and a thick, wavy, and silky coat. This breed is great for families as they are energetic enough to play with kids and have a kind nature. Although they may be a bit reserved when meeting new people, they are intelligent and trainable. With their low barking volume and calm and loving temperament, the Cava-Shell makes a beautiful addition to any household. They have lots of energy, so it is recommended to have a fenced yard where they can run and play.
In summary, the Cava-Shell is a hybrid breed that combines the characteristics of a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a Shetland Sheepdog. They have a medium size and a beautiful coat. These dogs are great family companions, as they are energetic, kind, and intelligent. They have a moderate barking volume and a calm and loving nature. It is important to provide them with a fenced yard to satisfy their high energy levels.
Below, we look at Cava-Shell dog breed, its history, personality, pros and cons of owning an Cava-Shell, characteristics, and must-see facts. We will also examine how to care for this breed and a lot more. Prepare for a tail-wagging adventure into the world of Cava-Shells!
| Dog Breed | Cava-Shell |
| Size | Small |
| Weight | 15-21 lbs (average) |
| Height | 12-14″ (average) |
| Location | United States |
| Ancestry | Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Shetland Sheepdog |
| Date of Origin | Unknown |
| Group | Companion dog, agility, tracking |
| Life Expectancy | 12-14 years |
| Price | $800 – $1000 |
| Family | Canidae |
| Scientific Name | Canis Lupus Familiaris |
📖 Breed History
The Cava-Shell doesn’t have a long history of its own, so we can look at its parent dogs to learn more about it. The Shetland Sheepdog originated from the Shetland Islands and was bred by farmers to herd their flocks of Shetland sheep. They were created by crossing Border Collies with smaller dogs, and some believe they were specifically bred to chase birds away from the sheep. In the 1800s, the Sheltie was brought to England and Scotland, while on the Shetland Islands, the farmers continued to breed smaller and fluffier Shelties to sell to visitors. There was some disagreement about the dog’s appearance and name, but it was eventually agreed to call it the Shetland Sheepdog and that it should resemble a miniature Collie. The breed was first registered by the American Kennel Club in 1911, and American breeders continued to import Shetland Sheepdogs from England until the 1950s. They became quite popular in the 1970s and held a spot on the AKC list for the next 15 years.
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel has a royal background, as it was the favored dog of King Charles II. It is a descendant of the King Charles Spaniel. In the 1600s, King Charles Spaniels were bred with Pugs, resulting in a smaller dog with a flatter nose, upturned face, and protruding eyes. This is the King Charles Spaniel we know today. However, in the 1920s, an American named Roswell Eldridge had a vision to breed the type of King Charles Spaniel depicted in Van Dyck’s paintings of King Charles II and his Spaniels. He offered a prize at the London Cruft dog show for anyone who could show him such a dog. A woman named Miss Mostyn Walker won the prize, but Eldridge had passed away a month earlier. Other breeders embraced Eldridge’s vision, and the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel returned to its roots as the true heir to the royal Spaniels. They were given the prefix “Cavalier” in the 1940s to distinguish them from the King Charles Spaniel. With such an interesting history, the Cava-Shell can be proud of its distinguished lineage.
🐕 Cava-Shell Appearance
Depending on how many genes from the parent breed are dominant, the appearance of the Cava-Shell might vary. When viewed from the side, the Cava-Shell’s head often resembles a blunt wedge, with a tapering nose and somewhat rounded cranium. The bite resembles the blades of scissors. The nostrils are wideset and the nose is dark. The Cava-shell has lovely, dark, round eyes like the Cavalier, or they may have inherited the Shetland’s almond-shaped eyes. The tips of the ears are frequently curled over and held somewhat upright. Frequently, the tail is long, feathered, and carried in a little curve. The paws are well rounded and the legs are longer like the Shetland. A mane is frequently formed around the neck and chest by the long, silky hair. The Cava-Shell is available in a variety of hues, from black and white to tricolored. They are a popular dog that is charming and enticing.
| 👀 Eye Color | Brown |
| 🐽 Nose Color | Black |
| 🐕 Coat Color | White, Black, Brown |
⚡ Fun Fact: Cava-Shell dogs need a lot of social interaction. They desire to always be with someone or around people. This breed hates being left alone.
🐶 Traits & Temperament of Cava-Shell
The Cava-Shell is endowed with a calm disposition, making them the perfect family dog. They have a strong bond with their family and are incredibly caring and affectionate. The Cava-Shell is extremely clever, reacts well to instruction, and performs best when trained using gentle, patient approaches as opposed to forceful ones. They will go above and beyond for you if you show them loads of appreciation through pats, lots of praise, and the odd tiny treat. They often have lots of energy and like playing energetic games, going on walks, or participating in whatever activity you want to do with them, including swimming. Until you become bored playing, they will fetch the ball. The Cava-Shell might be wary around strangers but is loving and amiable once they get to know them. A family’s closest friend, the Cava is dedicated and devoted. They will enjoy all the love and attention you can offer them just as much as they would if they were curled up on your lap or by your side.
🤝 Are Cava-Shells Friendly or Aggressive?
Cava-Shell dogs are known for being friendly towards other pets, including cats and other dogs. They are also very welcoming to strangers and enjoy the company of children, making them a great choice for families with kids. If you have other dogs or are interested in joining dog meetups, the Cava-Shell breed is also very dog-friendly. Additionally, these dogs are considered one of the best breeds for elderly people, as they are gentle and easy to handle.
This breed is known for being:
- Active
- Playful
- Courageous
- Intelligent
- Friendly
- Responsive
- Affectionate
- Lively
- Gentle
- Social
- Fearless
- Cheerful
- Quiet
- Nonaggressive
- Polite
- Graceful
- Sporty
- No tendency towards nervousness
🐩 Cava-Shell Care & Maintenance
The Cava-Shell’s grooming requirements are average. Despite having a long, silky coat, any shedding may be handled by giving them a good brushing with a brush with strong bristles. They may need to be bathed every other week or every two weeks because they are an active breed. To guarantee there are no adverse reactions, choose one of the specialty dog shampoos. Dry your Cava-Shell completely before looking for any wounds, sores, or skin illnesses that could be hurting your dog. Check the insides of the ears quietly, then use a soft cloth to clean them while your dog enjoys your company. Dental hygiene (train them to brush their teeth) and toenail trimming are other areas that need to be maintained.
Cava-Shell dogs have a higher than average shedding rate, which is a normal part of their hair growth cycle. The amount and frequency of hair loss can vary depending on their overall health and the specific breed. If you prefer to avoid frequent vacuum cleaning, you should reconsider getting a puppy from the Cava-Shell breed. These dogs typically require bathing every 6-8 weeks to maintain their hygiene.
🍖 Food: We recommend 3 cups daily, costing you about $1.20 – $1.40 daily, or roughly $34.00 – $45.00 a month.
🐾 Exercise: Cava-Shell dogs have an average exercise need. This breed is satisfied with short walks every weekday and a long ones on weekends.
This dog breed requires to be walked for roughly 9 miles per week, which equates to about 120 minutes of physical activity daily. This consistent moderate exercise regimen will help maintain their physical wellness and significantly contribute to their mental stimulation. Consciously setting aside this time for your furry friend can dramatically enhance their life quality, helping them stay energetic, healthy, and mentally alert.
Did you know: Cava-Shell dogs have a higher energy level than other dog breeds. If you want a dog for snuggling on the couch, this breed isn’t the perfect choice for you.
❤️🩹 Cava-Shell Health & Issues
Some of the major concerns for Cava-Shell Dog Breed can be:
- Patellar Luxation
- Hypothyroidism
- Mitral Valve Disease
While minor concerns include:
- Ear Infections
- Cherry Eye
🤧 Important: Is Cava-Shell hypoallergenic? No.
✨ Bonus: Check out cool, creative, and funny names for Cava-Shell.
⚡ Cava-Shell Dog Breed Facts
What makes the Cava-Shell a great choice for families with young children?
The Cava-Shell’s engaging gentle personality and ample energy make them a great choice for families with young children. They have the energy to play with children and are known to be patient and kind, making them a suitable companion for kids.
Is the Cava-Shell breed considered a suitable breed for apartment living?
The Cava-Shell breed is not considered suitable for apartment living due to their ample energy and need for space to play and run. They are best suited for a house with a fenced yard where they can have enough room to exercise.
How much exercise does a Cava-Shell require compared to other breeds?
Compared to other breeds, the Cava-Shell requires a moderate amount of exercise. They have ample energy and love being involved in active games, walks, and activities. Regular exercise is important to keep them mentally and physically stimulated.
Is the Cava-Shell breed known for being good with other pets?
The Cava-Shell breed is known for being good with other pets. They have a mild temperament and are generally affectionate and congenial once they get to know other animals. Proper socialization is still important to ensure positive interactions.
What are other low-maintenance dog breeds similar to the Cava-Shell?
Other low-maintenance dog breeds similar to the Cava-Shell include the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and the Shetland Sheepdog, which are the parent breeds of the Cava-Shell. These breeds also have similar traits in terms of temperament and grooming needs.
What are the common health issues that Cava-Shells are prone to?
Common health issues that Cava-Shells are prone to include hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and heart conditions. Regular veterinary check-ups and maintaining a healthy diet and exercise routine can help minimize the risk of these health issues.
Are Cava-Shells known to be easy to train compared to other breeds?
Yes, Cava-Shells are known to be easy to train compared to other breeds. They are highly intelligent and respond well to training, making them eager to please their owners. Kind and patient training methods are recommended for best results.
Are Cava-Shells more prone to separation anxiety compared to other breeds?
Cava-Shells can be prone to separation anxiety if not properly trained and socialized. It is important to gradually introduce them to being alone and provide them with mental stimulation and toys to keep them occupied when left alone.
Are there any dog breeds similar to the Cava-Shell that are suitable for people with allergies?
Some dog breeds similar to the Cava-Shell that are suitable for people with allergies include the Poodle, Bichon Frise, and Portuguese Water Dog. These breeds have hypoallergenic coats that produce fewer allergens.
What sizes of dogs similar to the Cava-Shell are best for individuals or families with limited space?
For individuals or families with limited space, smaller-sized dogs similar to the Cava-Shell, such as the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel or Shetland Sheepdog, may be a better fit. These breeds can adapt to living in smaller spaces as long as they are provided with regular exercise and mental stimulation.
Is the Cava-Shell breed known to be good with children with special needs?
The Cava-Shell breed is known to be good with children, including those with special needs. Their gentle and affectionate nature, combined with their patience and loyalty, can make them excellent companions for children with special needs.
How does the grooming and shedding needs of the Cava-Shell?
The grooming and shedding needs of the Cava-Shell are moderate. Their coat is thick, wavy, and silky, requiring regular brushing to prevent matting. They are considered moderate shedders, so some hair may be expected, but it can be managed with regular grooming sessions.
We use reliable and publicly available data and resources such as AKC and American Canine Registry to ensure that Cava-Shell dog breed information is accurate and up to date. If you spot an error, please don’t hesitate to bring it to our attention.
