Active
Playful
Courageous
Intelligent
Friendly
Responsive
Affectionate
Lively
Gentle
Social
Fearless
Cheerful
Quiet
Nonaggressive
Polite
Graceful
Sporty
No tendency towards nervousness

Playful
Agile
Alert
Intelligent
Obedient
Loyal
Quick
Strong
Willed
Bold
Bright
Sturdy

Cava-Shells are heavy shedders, but regular brushing can help manage shedding and promote a healthy coat.

Elk-Kees shed a lot of hair each year, so frequent brushing is essential for reducing shedding and maintaining coat health.

United States

​United States

Shetland Sheepdog and Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Norwegian Elkhound and Keeshond

ACHC = American Canine Hybrid Club
DRA = Dog Registry of America, Inc.
IDCR = International Designer Canine Registry®

ACHC = American Canine Hybrid Club
DRA = Dog Registry of America, Inc.

Brown

Brown

Black

Black

White
Black
Brown

Black
Silver
Gray
Cream

Cava-Shells are known for their coat length.

Elk-Kees have short coats.

A Cava-Shell can have a litter of 4-6 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

An Elk-Kee can have a litter of 5-10 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Patellar Luxation
Hypothyroidism
Mitral Valve Disease

Patellar Luxation
Fanconi Syndrome
Hip Dysplasia
Addison's Disease
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

Ear Infections
Cherry Eye

Sebaceous Adenitis
Epilepsy
Diabetes
Von Willebrand's Disease
Hypothyroidism

X-Rays
Ear Examination
Blood Work
Ocular Tests
Full Physical Examination regarding joint movement around the hip and kneecap
Diagnostic Tests for Hyperthyroidism

X-Rays
MRI
CT Scan
Physical Examination
Urinalysis
Complete Blood Work
Serum Chemistry
Spinal Tap
Neurologic Exam
Ophthalmic Examination

Cava-Shell has very high social needs and requires regular mental and physical stimulation, a job or purpose, and companionship.

Elk-Kee has above average social needs and thrives with interaction with humans and other dogs.

Cava-Shells have moderate energy levels and typical sleep patterns of 12-14 hours per day.

Elk-Kees sleep less than other breeds but still need adequate sleep for good health.

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Cava-Shell, it's at least 9 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Elk-Kee, it's at least 12 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

In general most Cava-Shells usually need at least 120 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

In general most Elk-Kees usually need at least 60 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

Pin Brush
Comb
Deshedder
Nail Clipper

Slicker Brush
Nail Clipper

The Cava-Shell is a great apartment dog, thriving with sufficient exercise and time outside as part of their daily routine.

Elk-Kees are good apartment dogs as long as they get enough exercise and stimulation outside of the apartment.

Cava-Shells make excellent family pets for kids due to their gentle, protective nature and calm temperament.

Elk-Kees are good with kids if socialized and trained from a young age.

Cava-Shells are generally very friendly towards other dogs, with a happy and affectionate temperament.

Elk-Kees are friendly and active companions, and can be good family pets, though their friendliness towards other dogs may vary.

Cava-Shells are usually easy to train but require consistency to fully obey commands.

Elk-Kees are popular for their ease of training and quick learning ability.