Cavapoo Breeders: A Guide to Finding and Choosing a Responsible Breeder

Finding a responsible Cavapoo breeder can be a daunting task, but with some research and due diligence, you'll be well on your way to bringing home a healthy, happy puppy.

A reputable breeder will have their dogs registered with a kennel club, such as the American Kennel Club (AKC) or the United Kennel Club (UKC), which can give you an idea of their commitment to breeding quality animals.

Look for breeders who prioritize health testing, such as OFA certification for hips and elbows, and genetic testing for inherited conditions like eye problems. This demonstrates a genuine concern for the well-being of their dogs.

A responsible breeder will also have a clear understanding of the Cavapoo's temperament, energy level, and grooming needs, which can help you make an informed decision about whether this breed is right for you.

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Cavapoos are a great fit for families who want a pet that's both energetic and affectionate. They have high affection levels and are extremely friendly.

One thing to keep in mind is that Cavapoos can get anxious if left alone for too long, so they're best suited for homes where someone is usually around. This means they might not be the best fit for people who work from home or travel frequently.

Here's a quick rundown of some key Cavapoo characteristics:

Their high trainability and intelligence make them relatively easy to teach new tricks, and their low barking tendency means they're a great choice for apartment dwellers.

Cavapoos are known for their amicable and winning personality, making them a popular family dog. They're outgoing, playful, and affectionate, which is perfect for families with kids.

One of the most important things to consider when bringing a Cavapoo into your home is their need for attention and socialization. These dogs don't tolerate being alone very much and can experience separation anxiety if not properly trained and socialized.

Here are some key personality traits of Cavapoos:

Cavapoos are intelligent and live for your validation and praise, which makes them easy to train. They're eager to please and can even learn agility and obedience tricks with proper training.

However, if you're looking for a guard dog, a Cavapoo isn't the best choice – they tend to get along with everyone and may even greet an intruder with a wag of their tail!

Size is a key characteristic to consider when thinking about Cavapoos.

Most Cavapoos weigh between nine and 25 pounds.

They can range in height from nine to 14 inches at the shoulder, depending on their Poodle parent's size.

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Cavapoos are incredibly adaptable dogs, able to thrive in a variety of living situations.

They can adjust to apartment living with ease, making them perfect for city dwellers. Their small size and low-shedding coat mean they don't require a large yard or excessive grooming time.

Their friendly and outgoing personalities also make them great companions for families with children, as well as for seniors who want a gentle and loving pet.

Cavapoos are generally healthy dogs, but they can be prone to some common health problems. Regular veterinary checkups are essential to detect any health concerns early.

To keep your Cavapoo healthy, ensure they get at least one good half-hour- to hour-long walk per day with a few good, active play sessions and shorter walks. They should also have their ears checked daily for debris and pests, and cleaned as recommended by your vet.

Some common health issues in Cavapoos include Mitral valve disease, Progressive retinal atrophy, Hip dysplasia, Luxating patella, Epilepsy, Syringomyelia, Dental problems, and Allergies. It's also essential to brush their teeth daily, as smaller breeds are prone to dental issues.

Here are some key health concerns in Cavapoos:

Cavapoos are prone to diseases seen commonly in their parent breeds, the Cavalier King Charles spaniel and toy poodle.

Mitral valve disease is a heart condition that affects the mitral valve, which can cause symptoms like coughing, difficulty breathing, and fainting. This condition is common in Cavapoos and can be inherited from their parents.

Eye diseases are also common in Cavapoos, including progressive retinal atrophy, entropion, cataracts, cherry eye, and dry eye. These conditions can lead to blindness if left untreated.

Luxating patellas is an orthopedic issue affecting the kneecaps, causing them to pop in and out of place. This condition can be painful and may require surgery or physical therapy to correct.

Allergies are a common health problem in Cavapoos, causing symptoms like skin problems, ear infections, and respiratory issues. Regular grooming and veterinary check-ups can help manage these allergies.

Syringomyelia/Chiari-like malformation is a condition where fluid builds up in the spinal cord, leading to pain, partial paralysis, or other severe symptoms. This condition affects not only Cavapoos but also other toy breeds.

Dental disease is a significant concern for Cavapoos, causing painful tooth abscesses and potentially life-threatening conditions like endocarditis. Regular dental cleaning and veterinary check-ups can help prevent these issues.

Here are some common health problems in Cavapoos:

Cavapoos tend to thrive on nutritious diets made for small- to medium-sized, high-energy dogs.

Their weight range can vary widely, so it's essential to measure out their food and avoid giving them too many treats to prevent canine obesity. Your veterinarian can provide a diet plan for your specific dog to maintain a healthy weight.

You should stick to a regular feeding schedule and not leave food out during the day to help control their eating habits. Limiting their amount of treats is also crucial, as it will help prevent overfeeding and weight gain.

As your Cavapoo grows from puppyhood to adulthood and into their senior years, their dietary needs will change. It's best to ask your veterinarian for recommendations about their diet at different stages of life.

For another approach, see: Best Food for Cavapoo Puppy

Regular veterinary checkups are a must for your Cavapoo to detect any health concerns early.

Cavapoos can be prone to weight gain and heart issues if they don't maintain a healthy weight, so ensure they get at least one good half-hour- to hour-long walk per day with active play sessions and shorter walks.

Suggestion: Cavapoo Weight Calculator

Daily ear checks are a good habit to get into - your vet can recommend how often to clean them. Brushing your Cavapoo's teeth daily is also crucial, as smaller breeds are prone to dental issues.

Trimming your dog's nails before they get too long is essential - usually once or twice per month is enough, and you shouldn't be able to hear a loud clicking sound when they walk.

Reputable breeders are committed to breeding healthy, well-socialized puppies that will make great companions.

They screen their breeding stock for health problems and socialize their puppies from a young age, which reduces the likelihood of health and behavioral issues in the dogs.

Backyard breeders, on the other hand, may prioritize making a profit over producing healthy, well-adjusted dogs.

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Cavapoos have soft, medium-length fur that can range from wavy to curly, requiring regular grooming. They are known for shedding very little, making them an ideal breed for those with allergies to pet dander.

Brushing your Cavapoo's coat at least once or twice a week is essential to prevent matting and keep their skin healthy. Regular nail trimming is also necessary to prevent snagging or breaking.

Their intelligent nature makes them highly trainable, starting as early as 12 weeks of age, with positive reinforcement-based training methods. Marking desired behavior with treats or praise can help reinforce good behavior.

A fresh viewpoint: Cavapoo Behavior Problems

Exercise is essential for a dog's overall health and well-being.

Regular exercise helps maintain a healthy weight, which can prevent or manage conditions like obesity, diabetes, and arthritis. A 30-minute walk per day is a good starting point for most breeds. Some dogs, however, may require more intense physical activity to stay happy and healthy.

Exercise also stimulates mental stimulation, reducing the risk of anxiety and destructive behavior in dogs. Engaging your dog's mind through play and training can help prevent boredom and stress-related issues.

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Cavapoos can be trained starting as early as 12 weeks of age.

This breed is highly trainable and eager to please, making them a joy to work with. They thrive on positive reinforcement-based training, which means you can use treats and praise to mark desired behavior and reinforce good behavior.

Separation anxiety is a common issue in Cavapoos due to their strong bond with their family. Providing mentally stimulating activities like lick mats, KONG toys, and puzzle toys can help keep them occupied while they're home alone.

Grooming is an essential part of caring for your Cavapoo.

Their soft, medium-length fur can range from wavy to curly and requires regular grooming to prevent matting. Brushing out their coat once a week should help keep it healthy.

Cavapoos are known for shedding very little, making them an ideal breed for those with allergies to pet dander. However, they still need routine brushing to prevent matting.

Regular nail trimming is also crucial to prevent snagging or breaking. Their long ears make them prone to infections, so regular cleaning is necessary.

Daily face washing can help prevent tear stains on their light-colored fur. There are also tear stain removers for dogs that can be used to keep their face clean.

Expand your knowledge: Teddy Cavoodle Cavapoo Grooming Styles

Cavapoo puppies are often adopted into loving homes between 8-12 weeks old.

The adoption process typically involves meeting with a reputable breeder who has socialized their puppies to be friendly and outgoing.

Adopting a cavapoo puppy can be a life-changing experience, providing endless joy and companionship for families and individuals alike.

If you're looking to adopt a puppy, start at your local shelter or rescue organization.

Cavapoos are actually commonly found at animal shelters due to their popularity as a "designer" breed.

By adopting from a shelter, you'll not only be giving a loving home to a deserving dog, but also opening up space for another pup in need.

The adoption process typically involves an application and interview with a representative from the shelter or rescue organization.

See what others are reading: Rescue Cavapoo

Finding a rescue group for your new furry friend can be a challenge, but don't worry, I've got you covered.

If you're looking to adopt a Cavapoo, you might have trouble finding a breed-specific rescue, since they are a mixed breed. However, many Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Poodle rescues also care for mixes like the Cavapoo.

Here are some reputable rescue groups you can try:

Cavapoos are wonderful small- to medium-sized dogs that can make a great addition to many families.

They require a lot of grooming, which means regular brushing and potential trimming sessions for their coats.

Their friendly nature makes them suitable for families with children, but it's essential to consider the extra attention they need due to health issues.

Pros of Cavapoos!

Cavapoos are extremely affectionate dogs that thrive on human interaction.

Their low-shedding and allergy-friendly coat is a huge plus for people with allergies or who prefer less dog hair.

This characteristic also makes them perfect for families with small children, as they're unlikely to trigger any allergic reactions.

Size and adaptability make them good for apartments and small spaces.

Cavapoos require a lot of grooming, with weekly to twice weekly brushing needed to prevent matting and tangling of their coats.

One of the biggest cons of owning a Cavapoo is that they are prone to several health issues, including dental disease, heart conditions, and eye problems. This means regular veterinary check-ups and potential costly medical bills down the line.

Unfortunately, it's also common for Cavapoos to be bred in puppy mills and backyard breeders, which can lead to a range of problems, from poor temperament to genetic disorders.

Here are some specific health issues that Cavapoos may face: