Cavapoo

The Cavapoo, also known as Cavadoodle, Cavapoodle, or Cavoodle, is a hybrid dog breed resulting from a cross between the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Poodle. These teddy bear-like pups are outgoing, playful, and curious, inheriting great traits from both parent breeds. Bred for their desirable characteristics rather than as a standardized breed, Cavapoos quickly gained popularity as fantastic family pets due to their friendly temperament, small size, and hypoallergenic coat, making them ideal for individuals with dog allergies.
Breed Group

Breed Group

Hybrid Dog

Height

Height

9 to 14 inches

Weight

Weight

9 to 25 pounds

Life Span

Life Span

12 to 15 years

Average Cost

Average Cost

$1000 to $4500

Colors

Colors

Black, White, Brown

AKC Group

AKC Group

Not Recognized

All About Breed

Read on to learn about this breed’s characteristics and determine if it will be the ideal pet for you.

In This Article
Cavapoo History/Origin

Cavapoo History/Origin

Australian breeders intentionally created the Cavapoo hyrbrid dog breed in the late 1990s by mixing Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Poodle. Breeders aimed to combine the Cavalier’s outgoing and calm nature with the Poodle’s intelligence and low-shedding coat, making the breed suitable for allergy sufferers.

As demand grew, they became popular as designer dogs, but some have ended up in shelters or rescues.

  1. Cavalier King Charles SpanielCavalier King Charles Spaniel- Source: Unsplash
  2. PoodlePoodle- Source: Wikipedia

If you decide this is the breed for you, consider adopting from local shelters or breed-specific rescues. The Cavapoo, combining traits from the German-origin Poodle and the English-origin Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, has gained popularity in the United States since its introduction in the 1990s.

Cavapoo Personality

Cavapoo Personality

Cavapoos have boomed in popularity due to their amicable and winning personalities. They are a popular family dog, thanks to their outgoing, playful, and affectionate nature.

However, Cavapoos do not tolerate being alone well and could experience separation anxiety if not properly socialized and trained. They are intelligent and live for validation and praise, making them easy to train as they are eager to please.

Dog Personality-Extremely Social

  • Temperament

Cavapoos are one of the dog breeds that can also be athletic, excelling in agility and obedience competitions. Due to their attachment, it’s important to train them early to be comfortable alone. Without proper training, they may turn to destructive behaviors like chewing furniture and shoes or rooting through the garbage when left alone.

Cavapoos get along with everyone and may even greet an intruder with a wag of their tail, so they are not suitable as guard dogs. They thrive in homes where they receive lots of attention, whether with a family or a senior citizen.

  • Potential challenges

While Cavapoos are beloved for their friendly and affectionate nature, it’s important to acknowledge that they may be prone to certain challenges. Like many small breeds, Cavapoos can develop separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods. This can lead to behaviors like excessive barking or destructive chewing.

Cavapoo Physical Appearance

Cavapoo Physical Appearance

The appearance of a Cavapoo typically varies based on the genetic traits inherited from its parents. They have compact faces with long, floppy ears, large expressive brown eyes, a short muzzle, and a cute black nose. Their bodies are small but well-proportioned, with short, strong legs, and a smooth, wavy, almost silky coat that is irresistibly soft.

  • Size

The appearance of a Cavapoo varies based on its parents’ genetics, especially the Poodle parent, which comes in four sizes: Standard, Medium, Miniature, and Toy Poodle. Most of them are bred from Toy or Miniature Poodles, making the Toy Cavapoo up to 12 inches tall and the Mini Cavapoo up to 14 inches.

  • Coat color

Cavapoo coat colors vary and may include shades like apricot, red, white, black, tan, brown, and combinations of these colors. Some Cavapoos also have a tri-color coat, featuring three different colors.

  1. White and Brown CavapooWhite and Brown Cavapoo- Source: Pixabay
  2. Brown CavapooBrown Cavapoo- Source: Pixabay
  3. White CavapooWhite Cavapoo – Source: Unsplash
  4. Black CavapooBlack Cavapoo- Source: Pixabay
  5. Tan CavapooTan Cavapoo- Source: Pixabay
Cavapoo Gender Differences

Cavapoo Gender Differences

When it comes to Cavapoos, there are noticeable physical and temperamental differences between males and females.

  • Size

For males, Cavapoos typically stand between 11 to 14 inches in height and weigh approximately 10 to 20 pounds. Females, usually measure around 9 to 11 inches tall and weigh between 8 to 17 pounds.

  • Temperament

When it comes to temperament, female Cavapoos often appreciate attention but prefer it on their terms. Conversely, male Cavapoos tend to be more attentiveaffectionate, and demanding of attention. They make excellent companions, typically being more reliable, accepting of other pets, and less moody compared to females.

Cavapoo Feed/Nutrition

Cavapoo Feed/Nutrition

Cavapoos need about 1 cup of dry food per day. An ideal diet should be tailored for a small dog with high energy levels. Cavapoos can easily gain weight if overfed, so it’s important to maintain a regular feeding schedule and avoid leaving food out all day. Healthy treats such as mangoes should be limited as well.

Their dietary needs will change from puppyhood to adulthood and continue to evolve into their senior years. Consult your veterinarian for specific dietary recommendations, as individual dogs vary greatly in weight, energy, and health.

Cavapoo Health

Cavapoo Health

Cavapoos are generally healthy dogs, but they can be prone to some health problems that are common in both Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and Poodles. Here are some of the most common Cavapoo health issues:

  • Mitral valve disease: Mitral valve disease (MVD) is a heart condition that affects the mitral valve, which is responsible for regulating blood flow between the heart’s two lower chambers. MVD can cause a variety of symptoms, including coughing, difficulty breathing, and fainting.
  • Progressive retinal atrophyProgressive retinal atrophy is a group of eye diseases that can lead to blindness. PRA is a genetic condition that is not curable, but some treatments can slow the progression of the disease.
  • Hip dysplasiaHip dysplasia is a condition in which the hip joints do not fit together properly. This can cause pain and lameness. Hip dysplasia is often treated with surgery or medication.
  • Patellar Luxation: Luxating patella is a condition in which the kneecap slips out of place. This can cause pain and lameness. Luxating patella is often treated with surgery or physical therapy.
  • EpilepsyEpilepsy is a neurological disorder that causes seizures. Epilepsy can be controlled with medication, but it is not curable.
  • SyringomyeliaSyringomyelia (SM) is a severe, chronic condition that affects the spinal cord. When fluid-filled cavities form within the central canal of the spinal cord, they can expand and cause damage to the spinal cord’s tissue. This process can lead to a variety of symptoms, ranging from mild discomfort to severe pain and partial paralysis. The condition is most commonly seen in certain toy breeds but can affect any dog.

Regular veterinary care and preventive measures are crucial to maintaining your Cavapoo’s health. Routine check-ups, vaccinations, and a balanced diet can help prevent many of these issues. Early detection and treatment are vital to managing any health problems that arise, ensuring your Cavapoo enjoys a long, healthy life.

Cavapoo Care and Grooming

Cavapoo Care and Grooming

Regular veterinary checkups are essential for Cavapoos to detect health concerns early and develop a suitable care routine. They are prone to weight gain and heart issues, so daily exercise is crucial. Ensure they get a half-hour to an hour-long walk, plus active play sessions. Check their ears for debris and pests daily, and clean them as recommended by your vet. Trim their nails once or twice a month, to keep their teeth clean, and brush them daily to prevent dental issues.

Dog grooming monthy- activity level medium

Cavapoos have coats that mix characteristics from their Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Poodle parents. They usually have short, soft, and wavy or curly coats that require regular grooming.

Due to their Poodle heritage, they shed less, making them suitable for some allergy sufferers. Weekly brushing helps keep their coat healthy. Their curly coats help them tolerate moderate temperatures, but they should not be left outside in extreme weather.

Incorporate dog training tips like positive reinforcement, consistent commands, and early training to promote good behavior.

Cavapoo Rescue Groups

Cavapoo Rescue Groups

Finding a breed-specific rescue for Cavapoos can be challenging because they are a mixed breed. However, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel or Poodle rescues often take in mixes. Here are some rescues you can try:

Cavalier Rescue USA

Carolina Poodle Rescue

How Much Does Cavapoo Cost?

How Much Does Cavapoo Cost?

The price of a Cavapoo typically ranges from $1,000 to $4,500, depending on factors such as breeder reputation, size, and coat type.

Choosing a reputable Cavapoo breeder is crucial when bringing a new dog into your life. Reputable breeders focus on breeding healthy, well-socialized puppies that become excellent companions.

AKC Marketplace

AKC Marketplace

Interesting Facts

Interesting Facts

  • Due to their gentle and friendly nature, Cavapoos often make excellent therapy dogs.
  • The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel brings a history of royal companionship. The Poodle adds a background of hunting and retrieving. This combination gives Cavapoos a rich and diverse ancestry.
Best For

Best For

Cavapoos are best suited for families with children and individuals with dog allergies due to their friendly and hypoallergenic nature. They thrive in apartment living, making them ideal companions for active seniors and first-time dog owners alike.

Dog Best For- Families

Top Names

Top Names

Male Cavapoo Names Female Cavapoo Names
Max Bella
Buddy Daisy
Charlie Lucy
Rocky Molly
Duke Sadie

Pet Ratings

Adaptability

For first-time pet owners, these dogs can be a fine choice, but not so much. If you are going to have a pet for the first time and have no prior experience with dogs, you should look for a dog with the best temperament. Also, prefer the dogs you know through a friend or acquaintance so they can help you if needed.

Friendliness

This is a breed that is sure to win your heart. This little dog is full of personality and loves nothing more than cuddling up with his family. He is also very adaptable and will quickly learn the rules of your household. So if you're looking for a furry friend who will become a cherished member of your family, this is a perfect choice.

Health and Grooming Needs

Some breeds of dogs such as this one, are more likely to have certain health problems. This doesn't mean that every dog of that breed will have those diseases, but they are more likely to. If you're adopting a puppy, it's a good idea to find out which genetic illnesses are common to the breed.

Trainability

Dogs that are easy to train learn new things quickly. They quickly learn that if they have to do something when you say a word or sound, they will get a reward. Other dogs need more time and patience to learn this. But most breeds of dog are intelligent. This means that you can use rewards and games to teach them what you want them to do.

Exercise Needs

Different breeds of dogs have different needs when it comes to exercise. Some breeds are fine with a slow stroll around the block once a day, while others need more vigorous exercise every day. Breeds that were originally bred for physically demanding jobs, like herding or hunting, need especially active lifestyles to stay healthy and happy. Without enough exercise, these breeds may become overweight and destructive.

Key Takeaways

Friendly and affectionate: Cavapoos are known for being loving and loyal dogs, always happy to see their owners, making them great companions for people of all ages.

Easy to train: Intelligent and eager to please, Cavapoos are relatively easy to train, quickly grasping basic commands and responding well to positive reinforcement.

Good with children and other pets: Gentle and playful, Cavapoos get along well with children and other pets, making them an excellent choice for families seeking a companion for their little ones.

Low-maintenance: With weekly brushing and occasional baths, Cavapoos require minimal grooming, making them less high-maintenance compared to some other breeds, such as Poodles.

Hypoallergenic: While not completely hypoallergenic, they shed less than some other breeds, which can make them suitable for individuals with allergies.

What is the downside of Cavapoos?

While Cavapoos are generally friendly and affectionate, they may be prone to separation anxiety if left alone for long periods. Additionally, they can be prone to certain health issues inherited from their parent breeds, such as hip dysplasia and mitral valve disease.

Is a Cavapoo high maintenance?

Cavapoos are not considered high-maintenance dogs compared to some other breeds, but they do require regular grooming to keep their coat healthy and prevent matting. Weekly brushing and occasional baths are usually sufficient to maintain their coat.

Do Cavapoos bark a lot?

Cavapoos are not known to be excessive barkers, but they may bark occasionally to alert their owners or communicate their needs. Proper training and socialization can help minimize any potential barking behavior.

Is a Cavapoo a calm dog?

Cavapoos typically exhibit a calm and gentle demeanor, especially when they are well-trained and properly socialized from a young age. They are known for being friendly, adaptable, and good-natured companions.

What is the typical litter size for Cavapoos?

Cavapoos usually have litter ranging from 2 to 8 puppies, although litter sizes can vary.

Is a Cavapoo a good house dog?

Cavapoos are generally excellent house dogs. They are known for their friendly and affectionate nature, making them great companions for families and individuals alike. They adapt well to apartment living or larger homes, provided they receive enough exercise and mental stimulation.

Are Cavapoos aggressive?

Cavapoos are not typically aggressive dogs. They are known for their gentle and sociable temperament, inherited from both the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and the Poodle breeds. However, like all dogs, individual temperament can vary based on genetics, socialization, and training.

What are Cavapoos' problems?

Common issues that Cavapoos may face include:
Health concerns: They may inherit health issues from their parent breeds, such as heart problems (from Cavaliers) or certain genetic conditions (like hip dysplasia).
Separation anxiety: Cavapoos can be prone to separation anxiety if left alone for long periods, as they thrive on human companionship.
Exercise needs: They require regular exercise to stay healthy and prevent obesity.
Grooming needs: Depending on their coat type (which can vary), they may need regular grooming to keep their fur free from mats and tangles.

Frequently Asked Questions

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