Congratulations on bringing home your new Cavapoo! This adorable crossbreed is sure to bring joy and companionship into your life.
Cavapoos are a mix of Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and Poodles, resulting in a friendly and outgoing temperament.
They are relatively small in size, typically weighing between 10-25 pounds and standing between 14-18 inches tall.
This compact size makes them perfect for city living or families with smaller spaces.
Intriguing read: Cavapoo Adult Weight
Temperament & Intelligence
Cavapoos are a mix of calm and energetic breeds, so their activity level depends on how you raise them.
Positive reinforcement is a better training option for Cavapoos, as they are moderately sensitive to harsh words.
Their intelligence means mental stimulation is vital for a good quality of life.
These happy little dogs are content to be by your side, whether you're running errands or hanging out at home.
Their people-centric personality can be a challenge for some pet parents, as they may exhibit signs of separation anxiety when left alone.
Cavapoos make excellent family pets due to their sweet and gentle temperament, combined with high intelligence.
Here are some key temperament and intelligence characteristics of Cavapoos:
Their high intelligence requires regular training and socialization to have a happy and well-balanced dog.
Family-Friendly Dogs
As a Cavapoo parent, you'll want to consider whether this breed is a good fit for your family. The Cavapoo loves people and will make an excellent family pet.
They're not a yippy or mouthy pup, which means they'll get along well with the kids. However, it's essential to supervise playtime with younger children because of the dog's size.
You should teach your kids how to pick up their pet correctly to avoid injuries. This will help prevent any accidents and ensure a harmonious household.
The Cavapoo doesn't like to be alone, so they'll do well in active households where they can receive plenty of attention. This means you'll need to make time for interactive play with your furry friend.
These pups can develop separation anxiety if left alone for long stretches, which is something to bear in mind when planning your day. This can be managed with regular exercise and playtime to keep them happy and engaged.
Pet Care Essentials
As a cavapoo parent, you're likely aware that these adorable dogs require regular grooming to keep their coats from becoming unruly. This means brushing their fur several times a week to prevent matting and tangling.
Cavapoos are highly trainable, eager to please, and only require a medium amount of exercise to stay happy and healthy. This makes them a great fit for first-time dog parents or those who don't have a lot of time for intense exercise routines.
They're also incredibly social and love being around their people, which can sometimes lead to separation anxiety if left alone for too long. To combat this, make sure to spend quality time with your cavapoo and engage in interactive play to keep them entertained.
Cavapoos are generally great with children who know how to play gently with dogs, and they're comfortable in a variety of living situations, from tiny apartments to big houses with yards. However, they do prefer cooler weather and can handle cold temperatures better than hot ones, so be mindful of this when planning outdoor activities.
Food & Diet
As a Cavapoo parent, you want to ensure your furry friend is getting the right food to thrive. Feed your Cavapoo three to four small meals a day until they reach adulthood, then scale back to two meals a day.
It's essential to choose a life stage-appropriate food, whether it's puppy, adult, or senior. Depending on your Cavapoo's size, you may need to adjust their food intake accordingly, with small dogs requiring less kibble.
A commercially available food with nutrients approved by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) is a great place to start. However, be aware that some Cavapoos may have allergies or sensitivities to certain ingredients.
Monitor your pet's body condition and adjust their food intake as needed to keep them fit. You can also talk to your veterinarian about other variables that may affect your Cavapoo's diet, such as age, activity level, and current body composition.
Recommended read: Cavapoo Puppy Food
Limit snacks to no more than 10% of your Cavapoo's daily caloric intake to prevent canine obesity. Even a couple of treats every day can add to the calorie count, so be mindful of this.
A 9-pound Cavapoo requires much less food per day than a 20-pound Cavapoo, so measure out their food carefully to avoid overfeeding. Your veterinarian can provide a diet plan for your specific dog to maintain a healthy weight.
Health & Wellness
Cavapoos are generally a healthy breed, but like any other breed, they can be prone to certain health issues. Their typical lifespan is 12-15 years.
As a Cavapoo parent, it's essential to research the health issues common in both parent breeds, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Toy Poodle. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs for genetic diseases.
Cavapoos can be prone to mitral valve disease, a congenital heart defect where a valve inside the heart is malformed. This condition can lead to heart problems if left untreated.
Eye diseases are also common in Cavapoos, including progressive retinal atrophy, entropion, cataracts, cherry eye, and dry eye. These conditions can cause blindness if left untreated.
Luxating patellas, an orthopedic issue affecting the kneecaps, are relatively common in Cavapoos. The kneecaps can pop in and out of place, causing discomfort.
Allergies, or skin allergies, can cause itchiness and discomfort in Cavapoos. Regular skin care and veterinary check-ups can help manage this condition.
Dental disease is also a concern for Cavapoos, with dental infections and abscesses being painful and potentially life-threatening. Regular brushing and dental cleanings can help prevent this condition.
Here are some common health issues to look out for in Cavapoos:
- Mitral valve disease
- Eye diseases (e.g. progressive retinal atrophy, entropion, cataracts, cherry eye, dry eye)
- Luxating patellas
- Allergies (skin allergies)
- Dental disease
Ear infections are also a common issue in Cavapoos, particularly if they like to swim. Regular ear cleaning and veterinary check-ups can help prevent this condition.
It's essential to work with a reputable breeder who has screened their dogs for genetic diseases. Ask for proof that a puppy's parents have been tested for heart health, eye health, and patellas.
Here's an interesting read: Cavapoo Health Problems
Grooming & Hygiene
Grooming is a must for Cavapoos, and it's not just about making them look cute! They have a low-shedding coat that requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling.
Daily brushing is a must, especially if your Cavapoo takes after the Poodle, which can lead to mats and tangles if not taken care of. You might want to consider giving them a puppy cut to make grooming easier.
Regular nail trimming is also crucial to prevent snagging or breaking, and ear cleaning is essential to prevent infections. Cleaning their ears regularly will also help prevent debris from building up in the ear canal.
Curious to learn more? Check out: How to Groom a Cavapoo
Skin Care
Cavapoos require regular skin checks to catch any signs of allergies early on. Keep an eye out for redness, dryness, or increased scratching.
If you notice any of these symptoms, talk to your vet right away. They can provide guidance on how to soothe your Cavapoo's skin and prevent further issues.
Regular grooming can also help prevent skin problems in Cavapoos.
Ear Care
Cavapoos are prone to ear infections due to their long ears.
Regular ear cleaning is essential to prevent infections. Clean your Cavapoo's ears when you groom him, and keep an eye on his ears between cleanings.
If your Cavapoo suffers from allergies, his ears could become itchy and infected. You might smell an infection, debris in the ear canal, or notice him shaking his head.
It's also important to clean or trim the fur inside the ears to prevent infections.
Tear stains on the face can be a problem for light-colored Cavapoos, but regular washing of the face can help prevent this issue.
Training & Behavior
As a cavapoo parent, you're probably wondering how to train and socialize your new furry friend. First and foremost, cavapoos are intelligent and highly trainable, so don't worry if you're new to dog ownership.
Cavapoos are prone to separation anxiety, which can lead to undesirable behaviors like chewing and barking. To help your dog cope, try giving them a mentally stimulating activity like a KONG, lick mat, or puzzle toy whenever they're left alone.
Intriguing read: Cavapoo Full Grown Black and White
Positive reinforcement training is key when it comes to cavapoos. They respond well to rewards and praise, so be sure to mark the desired behavior with a treat or praise.
Cavapoos can start learning basic obedience as early as 12 weeks of age, making them a great breed for first-time dog owners. With consistent training and positive reinforcement, your cavapoo will be a pro in no time.
To keep your cavapoo occupied and happy while you're away, try providing them with mentally stimulating activities like lick mats, KONG toys, and puzzle toys. This will help reduce the likelihood of separation anxiety and destructive behavior.
Attention span can be a challenge in puppies, so be patient and keep training sessions short and fun. With positive reinforcement and consistent training, your cavapoo will thrive.
Expand your knowledge: Cavapoo Behavior Problems
Fun Activities & Care
As a cavapoo parent, you're probably eager to engage your furry friend in fun activities that suit their unique personality and needs. The good news is that cavapoos are highly trainable and love to learn new tricks.
Since cavapoos are moderately sensitive to harsh words, it's essential to use positive reinforcement when training them. This means rewarding good behavior with treats, praise, and affection.
With their gentle and even-keeled nature, cavapoos are perfect for first-time dog parents or those who live in small spaces. They're not too much to handle and can thrive in apartments or big houses with yards.
Cavapoos require regular grooming to keep their curly coats from becoming unruly. This is a great opportunity to bond with your dog and teach them to enjoy the grooming process. They'll love the attention, and you'll love the outcome.
Here are some fun activities that cavapoos love:
- Learning tricks
- Obedience training
- Therapy dog work
- Neighborhood walks
- Food puzzles
- Fetch
- Cuddling at home
Remember, cavapoos are adaptable and can do well in homes with or without yards. However, they don't require vigorous exercise, so a daily walk and some playtime should suffice.
Size & Growth
Cavapoos tend to reach their full size sooner than some larger Doodles, with growth slowing down around the time they turn one year old.
Their size is largely determined by the size of their parents and genetics, with the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel being a toy breed that can weigh between 13 and 18 pounds and stand between 12 and 13 inches tall.
A Miniature Cavapoo's full-grown size ranges around 13 to 25 pounds in weight, and 12 to 16 inches in height.
Toy Cavapoos reach half of their adult weight at around 3.5 months old, and their full adult size around 7.5-11 months of age.
Here's a rough idea of what to expect for Toy and Mini Cavapoos:
Keep in mind that these are just general guidelines, and your Cavapoo's size may vary depending on their individual genetics and development.
Frequently Asked Questions
As a cavapoo parent, you're probably curious about your furry friend's growth and development. A full-grown Cavapoo can weigh anywhere from 9 to 25 pounds.
Cavapoos usually reach their full-grown size by the time they're 12 months old. This is a good thing, as it means you'll have a better idea of their adult size sooner rather than later.
Broaden your view: Brown Cavapoo Full Grown
Toy Cavapoos tend to reach their adult size around 7.5 to 11 months of age, which is a bit sooner than the average Cavapoo. Miniature Cavapoos, on the other hand, reach their full size around 11 to 13 months old.
The Cavapoo is considered a small hybrid breed dog, but their size can vary depending on whether you have a Toy, small, or Mini/medium sized dog. Typically, Mini Cavapoos weigh anywhere between 13 to 25 pounds, and stand at 12 to 16 inches tall at the shoulder.
If this caught your attention, see: Miniature Toy Cavapoo
Financial Considerations
Cavapoo parents can expect to pay a pretty penny for their furry family members. The average price for a Cavapoo puppy is £2,346, with prices increasing by 162% in just four years.
Cavapoos are a relatively healthy breed, which is great news for their owners. The average cost of dog insurance for Cavapoos was $418 in 2021.
Their popularity has led to higher prices, especially if the parents are Kennel Club registered Poodles and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. This is likely to be a significant factor in the price you'll pay.
Their easygoing nature and low-maintenance coat have made them a favorite among families, which has driven up demand and prices.
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Pros & Cons
As a cavapoo parent, it's essential to know the pros and cons of owning one of these adorable dogs.
Cavapoos are known for being affectionate, which means they'll shower you with love and attention. They're also low-shedding and allergy-friendly, making them a great choice for families with allergies or who prefer less dog hair.
If you're considering getting a cavapoo, be prepared for regular grooming sessions. They require weekly to twice weekly brushing to prevent matting and tangling.
Pros
If you're considering bringing a Cavapoo into your life, you'll be happy to know they're incredibly affectionate dogs. They love people and thrive on attention, making them a great companion for families and singles alike.
One of the best things about Cavapoos is their low-shedding and allergy-friendly coat. This means they're perfect for people with allergies or who prefer less dog hair in their homes.
Their size and adaptability make them a great fit for apartments and small spaces. They don't need a lot of room to run around, making them a great choice for city dwellers.
Here are some of the key pros of Cavapoos:
- Affectionate
- Low-shedding and allergy-friendly coat
- Size and adaptability make them good for apartments and small spaces
Cons
Caring for a Cavapoo requires regular grooming, with weekly to twice weekly brushing necessary to prevent matting and tangling of their fur. This can be a significant commitment for some owners.
Their health is another concern, as Cavapoos are prone to dental disease, heart conditions, and eye problems. This means regular veterinary check-ups and a healthy diet are crucial.
Unfortunately, many Cavapoos are a product of puppy mills and backyard breeders, which can lead to a range of issues, from poor health to behavioral problems.
Here are some specific health concerns to be aware of:
- Dental disease
- Heart conditions
- Eye problems
Frequently Asked Questions
What two dogs make up a Cavapoo?
A Cavapoo is a cross between a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a Poodle. This unique blend of breeds creates a lovable and playful companion.
Can you breed a Cavapoo with a Cavapoo?
Breeding two Cavapoos together is not recommended as it can lead to the reappearance of inherited health issues. Learn more about responsible Cavapoo breeding and the importance of genetic diversity
What are the genetic problems with Cavapoos?
Cavapoos are prone to several genetic health issues, including hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, eye conditions, syringomyelia, dental problems, heart disease, and allergies, making regular veterinary check-ups and genetic testing essential for responsible breeding and ownership. Understanding these potential health concerns can help you provide the best possible care for your Cavapoo.
Sources
- Cavapoo (Cavalier King Charles Spaniel & Poodle Mix) (dogster.com)
- KONG (chewy.com)
- Cavapoo Size Chart With 12500+ Cavapoo Weight Data ... (doodledoods.com)
- Cavapoo: Dog Breed Characteristics & Care (thesprucepets.com)
- Cavapoo dog breed information & cost (manypets.com)
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