Cavapoo Doodle Breed Overview and Care Guide

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Posted Oct 9, 2024

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Close-up Photography of Blenheim Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
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The Cavapoo Doodle is a cross between a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a Poodle, typically a Toy or Miniature Poodle. This hybrid breed is known for its friendly and affectionate nature.

Cavapoos are generally small in size, weighing between 10-25 pounds and standing between 10-14 inches tall. They have a low-shedding coat that requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling.

Their intelligence and trainability make them a great choice for first-time dog owners, as they are relatively easy to train with positive reinforcement techniques.

Breed Characteristics

Cavapoos are a great fit for families with kids, as they have the energy to keep up with children and are friendly and affectionate with kids of all ages.

They're also highly adaptable, able to thrive in small apartments or big houses with or without a yard. This makes them a great choice for singles, seniors, and families with varying living situations.

Their calm temperament and sweet disposition make them an excellent choice for therapy work, and their low shedding and hypoallergenic coats make them a great option for people with allergies.

Here are some key breed characteristics:

Size

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The size of a Cavapoo can vary, but most weigh in at nine to 25 pounds.

They can range in height from nine to 14 inches at the shoulder.

Some Cavapoos can be smaller or larger, depending on the size of their Poodle parent.

Their size is influenced by their mix of Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Poodle parents.

Take a look at this: Medium Cavapoo

Characteristics

Cavapoos are a great fit for a variety of lifestyles, but they do prefer being in the company of their humans rather than in a kennel.

They're highly affectionate with their families and tend to have a quiet, calm temperament when they're not exercising. This makes them excellent companions for people who want a dog that will be by their side at all times.

Here are some key characteristics of Cavapoos:

Cavapoos are also highly adaptable and can thrive in a variety of living situations, from small apartments to big houses with or without a yard.

They're easy to train, as they love to learn and enjoy performing for an audience, making them a great choice for first-time dog owners or those who want a low-maintenance pet.

Grooming and Care

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Cavapoos have curly coats that require regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling. Brush your Cavapoo's coat at least once to twice a week to keep it healthy.

Their curly coats also make them less prone to shedding, but they still need regular grooming to prevent matting. Consistent grooming habits can minimize the amount of loose hair.

Cavapoos are prone to ear infections due to their long ears, so clean their ears regularly. You should also clean or trim the fur inside their ears to prevent infections.

Daily brushing can help prevent dental issues in Cavapoos, as they are prone to dental disease. Brushing their teeth daily can help prevent dental problems and keep their teeth and gums healthy.

Regular nail trimming is also essential to prevent snagging or breaking.

Curious to learn more? Check out: Curly Hair Cavapoo

Grooming

Cavapoos have soft, medium-length fur that can range from wavy to curly and requires regular grooming.

They 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, which can be uncomfortable and even painful.

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Brushing your Cavapoo at least once to twice a week can help prevent matting, especially in areas like the tail, hindquarters, and lower belly.

Regular grooming can also help prevent infections of the ears, eyes, and skin. Consistent grooming habits can minimize the floof, which is especially helpful during shedding seasons in the spring and fall.

Daily brushing can also help keep your Cavapoo's skin and coat in tip-top condition, and provides an opportunity to bond with your dog.

In addition to brushing, your Cavapoo should get their nails trimmed regularly to prevent them from snagging or breaking.

Feeding

Feeding your Cavapoo requires attention to their high energy levels and tendency to gain weight if overfed. Stick to a regular feeding schedule and don't leave food out during the day.

Cavapoos have different dietary needs at different stages of their life. As a puppy, they may prefer 3-4 smaller servings during the day, which can be reduced to two meals as they get older.

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To avoid weight gain, make sure your Cavapoo has a healthy and balanced diet and gets plenty of exercise. This will also depend on their activity level, age, and metabolism.

You should ask your veterinarian for recommendations about your Cavapoo's diet, as there is too much variation among individual dogs to make a specific recommendation.

Living Needs

Cavapoos need regular walks, at least one good half-hour to hour-long walk per day, with a few active play sessions and shorter walks in between.

Their daily exercise needs can be easily met by children and seniors, who can take them out for two or three walks a day.

Trimming their nails is essential, usually once or twice a month, to prevent them from clicking loudly against the floor.

You can brush their teeth daily, as smaller breeds like Cavapoos are prone to dental issues, and your veterinarian can show you how to do it properly.

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In the winter, you may need to outfit your Cavapoo with special boots and a sweater or jacket for extra protection from the cold.

In the summer, trimming their body coat can help with cooling, and providing shady spots, water, and chilled toys can keep them comfortable.

It's best to keep your Cavapoo on a leash when out on walks, even if they don't have a high prey drive, as their spaniel tracking genes might prompt them to chase small animals.

Training and Behavior

Training a Cavapoo is a breeze, especially since they're highly trainable and eager to please. They respond well to positive reinforcement-based training, which means using treats and praise to mark good behavior.

Cavapoos are intelligent dogs that can start learning basic obedience as early as 12 weeks old. They thrive on attention and interaction, so make sure to provide them with plenty of mental stimulation and exercise.

Socialization is key when it comes to Cavapoos, as they can become attached to their family and develop separation anxiety if left alone for too long. Introduce your puppy to new experiences, people, and dogs from an early age, and consider enrolling them in puppy socialization classes.

With proper training and socialization, your Cavapoo can become a well-behaved and loyal companion. They're also great at picking up tricks and skills, making them a fantastic addition to agility and obedience competitions.

Related reading: Cavapoo Pups

Training

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Cavapoos are intelligent and highly trainable, making them a joy to work with. They respond well to positive reinforcement-based training, which can start as early as 12 weeks of age.

Cavapoos are eager to please, which means they'll thrive on attention and praise during training sessions. Combining treats with toys, praise, and play will work wonders when training a Cavapoo puppy.

Housebreaking and leash training can sometimes be a tricky task, but with proper motivation and positive reinforcement, the puppy will become an eager and obedient student. Socialization is one of the most essential steps in training, helping young puppies grow into friendly, sociable adult dogs.

Puppy socialization should not be rushed, especially in the first few days of the puppy's arrival home. Allow your little pupppy time to become comfortable with its surroundings and with you before you introduce them to friends, family members, and other pets in the house.

A unique perspective: Potty Training a Cavapoo

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Cavapoos are friendly-natured dogs that make fast friends with other dogs and even cats, but they still need to be socialized early on. Training your Cavapoo from an early age is key, and our guide on early training practices for Cavapoo puppy behaviors can be beneficial.

If your puppy shows signs of being uncomfortable when meeting or interacting with another dog, it is best that you end the interaction and try again on your next walk. It's essential to be patient and not force interactions when the puppy is not ready.

Cavapoos can easily be trained in basic obedience with positive reinforcement-based training, marking the desired behavior with a treat or praise can help reinforce good behavior.

For your interest: Cavapoo Behavior Problems

Exercise Requirements

Cavapoos need a lot of exercise to stay happy and healthy. They require at least 45 minutes to one hour of physical activity every day.

This can be broken down into shorter and longer walks, such as a morning stroll and an evening longer walk.

To keep them mentally stimulated, it's essential to provide a secure environment where they can run off-lead and sniff out interesting things.

Health and Problems

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Cavapoos are prone to certain health problems, just like all breeds. This doesn't mean your dog is guaranteed to contract any particular disease – it's just something to bear in mind.

You should ask a reputable breeder for proof that a puppy's parents have been tested to check their heart health, eye health, and patellas. This is crucial in identifying potential genetic issues.

Some common health problems in Cavapoos include dental disease, allergies, and hip dysplasia. Regular brushing and dental cleaning can help prevent dental disease.

Here are some possible health complications for this breed:

  • Cavapoo dental issues and gum disease
  • Infections
  • Cavapoo obesity and weight gain
  • Dog allergies (including fleas, food, and pollen)
  • Eye problems
  • Hip dysplasia

Monitoring your pet closely and attending routine six-month health checks with your vet will help identify minor conditions before they escalate into something worse. Pet insurance can also help cover the costs of any routine or emergency medical treatment your dog may need.

Dietary Needs

Cavapoos require a nutritious diet made for small- to medium-sized, high-energy dogs. A 9-pound Cavapoo needs much less dog food per day than a 20-pound Cavapoo.

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Measure out your Cavapoo's food to prevent canine obesity, and aim for anywhere from 1/2 cup to 1 cup of food per day. Your veterinarian can help you create a diet plan tailored to your dog's specific needs.

Feeding your Cavapoo complete dog food formulated for small breeds ensures they get the right amount of vitamins and minerals. Growing pups prefer 3-4 smaller servings during the day, rather than two larger meals.

As your Cavapoo gets older, you can reduce their meals to two a day. To avoid weight gain, make sure your dog has a healthy and balanced diet and gets plenty of exercise.

See what others are reading: Cavapoo Puppy Food

Common Problems

As a Cavapoo owner, it's essential to be aware of the common problems that can affect this breed.

Mitral valve disease is a congenital heart defect that can be a significant issue for Cavapoos, where a valve inside the heart is malformed and doesn't fully occlude when closed.

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Eye diseases such as progressive retinal atrophy, entropion, cataracts, cherry eye, and dry eye can all impact the health of your Cavapoo.

Luxating patellas are an orthopedic issue that affects the kneecaps, causing them to pop in and out of place due to shallow grooves.

Allergies can cause itchiness and discomfort in Cavapoos, and they can be triggered by various factors such as food, pollen, or fleas.

Dental disease is a significant concern for Cavapoos, with bacteria entering the bloodstream through the gums and potentially leading to heart disease.

Here are some of the common health problems that can affect Cavapoos:

  • Mitral valve disease
  • Eye diseases (progressive retinal atrophy, entropion, cataracts, cherry eye, and dry eye)
  • Luxating patellas
  • Allergies (skin allergies)
  • Syringomyelia/Chiari-like malformation
  • Dental disease
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Epilepsy

Ownership and Costs

Owning a cavapoo doodle comes with its fair share of expenses.

First, let's talk about the cost of feeding your cavapoo doodle. You can expect to pay around £80 to £90 a month to cover the ongoing costs of owning this breed.

As a responsible dog owner, you'll also need to factor in veterinary care, which can be a significant expense.

For another approach, see: Golden Doodle Dogs Hypoallergenic

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Pet insurance is a must-have to cover unexpected vet bills, and it's a good idea to budget around £20-£50 per month for this.

If you have a busy schedule, you may need to consider kennels or dog sitters to look after your cavapoo doodle when you're away.

Cavapoo doodle grooming costs can be around £30-£60 per session, depending on the frequency and type of grooming needed.

In addition to these costs, you'll also need to budget for toys and equipment, such as food and water bowls, a comfortable bed, and plenty of toys to keep your cavapoo doodle entertained.

Here's a rough breakdown of the estimated monthly costs of owning a cavapoo doodle:

  • Veterinary care: £20-£50
  • Food and treats: £20-£50
  • Pet insurance: £20-£50
  • Kennels or dog sitters: £20-£50
  • Grooming costs: £30-£60
  • Toys and equipment: £10-£30
  • Preventative healthcare: £10-£30

Preventative healthcare is also an important consideration, with costs ranging from £10-£30 per month.

Adopting or Buying a Pet

Cavapoos are relatively popular dogs, which means they can be found at animal shelters due to their popularity.

If you're interested in adding a Cavapoo to your family, start at your local shelter or rescue organization. They often have Cavapoos waiting for a forever home.

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These puppies typically cost between $1,000 and $2,000 if you decide to buy from a reputable breeder. Prices may vary depending on location and pedigree.

To buy a healthy dog raised in a safe environment, avoid commercial pet shops and breeders that don't let you see the parents or where they're kept.

General Information

The Cavapoo is a cross between a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a Poodle, typically weighing between 15 and 30 pounds. They are small to medium-sized dogs with a soft, wavy, curly or straight coat that comes in various colors, including black, white, brown, and cream.

Cavapoos are known for being friendly, intelligent, and easy to train. They are relatively low-maintenance dogs, making them a good choice for first-time owners. They are also good with children and other pets, and make great companion dogs.

Here are some key facts about Cavapoos:

  • Official Name: Cavapoo
  • Pet Height: 9 to 14 inches
  • Pet Weight: 8 to 25 pounds
  • Lifespan: 10 to 15 years
  • Good With: cats, children, dogs, families, seniors
  • Temperament: anxious, friendly, gentle, outgoing, playful

Overview

The Cavapoo is a cross between a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a Poodle, known for their affectionate temperament and teddy bear-like appearance. They typically weigh between 15 and 30 pounds and come in various colors including black, white, brown, and cream.

Close-Up Shot of a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Lying Down
Credit: pexels.com, Close-Up Shot of a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Lying Down

Cavapoos are known for being friendly, intelligent, and easy to train. They are relatively low-maintenance dogs, making them a good choice for first-time owners.

Here are some key characteristics of the Cavapoo breed:

Cavapoos are good with children and other pets, making them a great choice for families. They are also apartment-friendly and require regular playtime, walks, and mental stimulation.

History

The Cavapoo breed has a fascinating history that's worth exploring. The Cavapoo dog breed originated in Australia in the 1990s.

Designer breeders in Australia intentionally mixed Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and Poodles to create a mixed breed that combines the outgoing and calmer nature of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel with the intelligence of a Poodle. This intentional breeding was done to create a low-shedding breed for allergy sufferers.

The Cavapoo's popularity grew as demand for the mixed-breed pups climbed. Unfortunately, some Cavapoos have ended up in shelters or in the care of rescue groups.

Take a look at this: Cavapoo vs King Charles Spaniel

White and Red Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Puppy Close-up Photo
Credit: pexels.com, White and Red Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Puppy Close-up Photo

Here are some key facts about the Cavapoo's history:

It's essential to understand the breeding science behind Cavapoos, especially when it comes to inbreeding. The potential for low-allergen benefits is a significant factor in the breed's popularity.

Cockapoo

The Cockapoo is a cross between a Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle, typically a Toy or Miniature Poodle. This adorable mix creates a friendly, outgoing companion that's perfect for families.

Their small size, usually weighing between 20-40 pounds, makes them an ideal choice for city living or homes with small yards. They require regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling of their curly coats.

As a hybrid breed, Cockapoos can inherit the intelligence and trainability of both parent breeds, making them relatively easy to train with positive reinforcement techniques.

Pros and Cons

Cavapoos are wonderful small- to medium-sized dogs that can make a great addition to many families. They're affectionate, which means they love people and enjoy being around them.

Their low-shedding and allergy-friendly coat is a big plus for people with allergies or who prefer less dog hair. This makes them a great choice for many families.

If you live in an apartment or have a small space, a cavapoo's size and adaptability make them a great fit.

Pros

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The Cavapoo is a wonderful breed, and one of the best things about them is their affectionate nature. They make great companions and love to be around their owners.

One of the biggest advantages of the Cavapoo is their low-shedding and allergy-friendly coat. This means they're perfect for people with allergies or who prefer less dog hair.

Their size and adaptability make them a great choice for apartment living or small spaces. They're happy in any environment as long as they're with their family.

Here are some of the pros of owning a Cavapoo:

  • Affectionate
  • Low-shedding and allergy-friendly coat
  • Size and adaptability make them good for apartments and small spaces

Cons of

Cavapoos require a significant amount of grooming, which can be time-consuming and costly.

Weekly to twice weekly brushing is a must to prevent matting and tangling of their fur. This can be a challenge for busy families or those who are not experienced in dog grooming.

Dental disease, heart conditions, and eye problems are all potential health issues that Cavapoos may face.

Cavapoos are also commonly a product of puppy mills and backyard breeders, which can lead to a range of health and behavioral problems.

Here are some of the specific health issues that Cavapoos may be prone to:

  • Dental disease
  • Heart conditions
  • Eye problems

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is calmer, a Cavapoo or a goldendoodle?

Cavapoos are generally calmer than Goldendoodles, with a lower energy level. This makes them a great choice for families with smaller living spaces or those who want a more relaxed pet.

Do Cavapoos bark a lot?

Cavapoos are generally not excessive barkers, but individual personalities and socialization can influence their vocalization. They may bark occasionally, but it's not a characteristic typically associated with the breed.

Heather Murphy

Writer

Heather Murphy is a passionate and dedicated writer with a keen interest in the world of pets. With a background in animal care, she brings a unique perspective to her writing, making her articles informative and engaging. Heather's articles have been featured in various publications, covering topics such as pet treats and other related subjects.