Cava-Tzu
The Cava-Tzu is a cross between the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and the Shih Tzu. Because each hybrid inherits a unique combination of traits from both parents, we recommend thoroughly researching both breeds before choosing a Cava-Tzu. Pay special attention to temperament, health issues, and care requirements, as your dog may express characteristics from either parent breed.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a small, elegant toy spaniel that stands between 12 and 13 inches tall at the shoulder and typically weighs between 13 and 18 pounds when fully mature. This breed possesses a well-balanced, graceful build with a slightly rounded skull, a full muzzle, and a gentle, sweet expression that has earned them the description of having a melting look in their large, round, dark brown eyes. The body is slightly longer than it is tall, with a level topline and moderate bone structure that gives the breed substance without appearing heavy or coarse. The ears are set high, long, and covered with abundant silky feathering that frames the face beautifully and accentuates their gentle expression. The coat of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is one of its most distinctive features, consisting of medium-length, silky fur that can be slightly wavy but never curly. Feathering appears on the ears, chest, legs, and tail, adding elegance to the breed's appearance. The breed standard recognizes four color varieties: Blenheim, which features rich chestnut markings on a pearly white background, often with a characteristic lozenge-shaped spot on top of the head; tricolor, consisting of jet black and white with rich tan markings over the eyes, on the cheeks, inside the ears, and under the tail; black and tan, which displays jet black with bright tan markings in specific locations; and ruby, a solid rich reddish-brown throughout. All colors should display clear, well-defined markings without excessive ticking. Additional distinguishing physical characteristics include the moderately long neck that flows smoothly into well-laid-back shoulders, compact feet with well-cushioned pads, and a tail that is carried happily but never much above the level of the back. The tail is well-feathered and may be docked in countries where this practice remains legal, though many breeders now leave tails natural at their full length. The gait is free-moving and elegant, with good reach and drive. The overall impression should be of an active, graceful, and well-balanced dog with a gentle expression that reflects the breed's sweet and affectionate temperament, combining royal elegance with sporting character.
Key Characteristics
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Cavaliers are known for their sociable nature with other dogs, pets, and people of all ages, including children. They rarely display aggression and are typically welcoming to strangers, making them poor guard dogs but excellent family pets. Their gentle, patient demeanor makes them particularly suitable for households with young children, though interactions should always be supervised to prevent accidental injury to the dog. These spaniels are often described as having an intuitive ability to sense their owner's emotions, providing comfort during difficult times.
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Other health issues common to the breed include hip dysplasia, which affects approximately one in four Cavaliers, patellar luxation, various eye conditions including cataracts and retinal problems, and primary secretory otitis media, often called glue ear, affecting up to thirty percent of the breed. Many Cavaliers also exhibit giant platelet syndrome, where blood tests show abnormally large platelets and seemingly low platelet counts, though this is typically benign and does not cause health problems. The breed's average lifespan ranges from twelve to fifteen years, though those significantly affected by heart disease may have shorter lives. Responsible breeders screen their breeding stock for heart conditions, syringomyelia, hip dysplasia, and eye problems.
Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is a sturdy, compact toy breed that stands between 9 and 10.5 inches at the withers, though heights ranging from 8 to 11 inches are acceptable within the breed standard. These dogs typically weigh between 9 and 16 pounds when mature, presenting a solid, well-balanced appearance despite their small stature. The breed is characterized by its distinctive brachycephalic head structure, featuring a broad, round skull with a well-defined stop and a short, square muzzle set no lower than the bottom eye rim. The large, dark, round eyes are set wide apart and convey a warm, trusting expression, while the large, heavily-coated ears are set slightly below the crown of the skull. The Shih Tzu's luxurious double coat is one of its most recognizable features, consisting of a dense, flowing outer coat and a woolly undercoat. The hair grows continuously and requires regular grooming to maintain its magnificent appearance. All coat colors are acceptable in the breed standard, though common colorations include various combinations of white with gold, red, black, silver, or brindle. Many Shih Tzus display a white blaze on the forehead and a white tip on the tail. The breed's unique underbite, where the lower jaw extends slightly beyond the upper jaw, is a required characteristic according to the breed standard. The body of the Shih Tzu is short-coupled and sturdy, slightly longer than it is tall, with a broad, deep chest and well-sprung ribs. The heavily plumed tail is set high and carried in a graceful curve well over the back, adding to the breed's regal appearance. Movement should be smooth and flowing, with good reach in front and strong drive from behind. The overall impression is of a proud, arrogant carriage befitting this breed's royal Chinese heritage, yet the expression remains sweet and the demeanor friendly and outgoing.
Key Characteristics
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Shih Tzus generally get along wonderfully with children, other dogs, and even cats when properly socialized from an early age. Their patient, gentle nature makes them excellent companions for families with respectful children, though interactions should be supervised due to the breed's small size. These dogs can be prone to separation anxiety when left alone for extended periods, potentially leading to undesirable behaviors such as excessive barking or destructive chewing. Their need for companionship makes them ideal pets for retirees, those who work from home, or households where someone is frequently present.
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Additional health concerns in Shih Tzus include patellar luxation, hip dysplasia, intervertebral disc disease, hypothyroidism, dental disease due to their small mouths, and anal sac disorders. Studies have shown Shih Tzus have a predisposition for anal sac impaction compared to other breeds. Despite these potential health issues, the Shih Tzu is relatively long-lived for a purebred dog, with lifespans typically ranging from 10 to 18 years and an average of 12 to 14 years. One UK veterinary study documented a median age of death of 12.7 years, notably higher than many other brachycephalic breeds. Regular veterinary care, dental cleanings, appropriate weight management, and attention to respiratory and eye health contribute to longevity.
Important to Remember
Each hybrid dog is unique and may inherit any combination of traits from either parent breed. The information above represents the characteristics of the purebred parent breeds. Your Cava-Tzu may favor one parent over the other or display a blend of both. We strongly encourage you to read the complete breed profiles for both the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Shih Tzu to fully understand the range of possible temperaments, health concerns, and care requirements.