The Cavapoo is a mix of a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a Poodle. They’re small to medium-sized, usually weighing between 15 and 30 pounds. With a soft, wavy coat that can be curly or straight, they come in various colors like black, white, brown, and cream.

Cavapoos are recognized for their friendliness, intelligence, and trainability. They’re also quite easy to care for, which is perfect for new dog owners. They get along well with kids and other pets, making them wonderful companions.

1. Origin:

• Australia in the 1990s

2. Adult Cavapoo Size:

• Standard: 10-20 pounds
• Mini: 7-15 pounds

3. Cavapoo Lifespan:

• 12-15 years, often outliving their parents due to Hybrid Vigor.

4. Breed Group:

• Hybrid (designer dog)

5. Coat:

• Various types including wavy or curly.
• Often low-shedding or hypoallergenic, varying based on cross-generation.

6. Cavapoo Temperament:

• Affectionate, friendly, and sociable.
• Often compatible with children, other pets, and strangers.

7. Exercise Needs:

• Moderate; require regular playtime, walks, and mental stimulation.

8. Training:

• Intelligent and eager to please, making them trainable.
• Respond well to positive reinforcement methods.

9. Grooming:

• Depends on coat type; typically requires regular brushing and occasional professional grooming.

10. Health:

• Inherit health traits from both parent breeds.
• Need responsible breeding, regular vet care, and balanced diet.

The Cavapoo breed likely existed naturally, but intentional mixing of Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and Poodles began in Australia in the late 1990s. Breeders aimed to combine the friendly nature of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel with the Poodle’s intelligence. Poodles, known for shedding less, were chosen to create a breed suitable for allergy sufferers.

As demand for Cavapoos grew, breeders continued to produce them. Despite their designer breed origins, some Cavapoos end up in shelters or with rescue groups. Adoption is a great option if you’re interested in this breed. Check local shelters, Cavapoo rescues, or breed-specific rescues for Cavalier King Charles Spaniels or Poodles, as they often care for mixed-breed dogs and find them homes.

Since Cavapoos are still a young breed, there aren’t strict rules about their size. However, since they’re a mix of Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Poodle, they tend to be small or medium-sized, depending on how big the Poodle parent is.

Typically, they weigh between 8 to 25 pounds and stand around 9 to 14 inches tall at the shoulder. But keep in mind, some may be even smaller or bigger.

Cavapoos are super popular because they’re really friendly and lovable. They make great family pets because they’re outgoing, playful, and love to snuggle. But, Cavapoos don’t like being alone much, and if they’re not taught how to handle it, they might feel anxious when left by themselves. They’re smart dogs and really want to make you happy, which makes training them pretty easy. Cavapoos can be good at sports like agility and obedience competitions because they’re athletic. Since they like being close to people, it’s important to teach them how to be okay on their own early on. If they’re not trained well, Cavapoos might start chewing on stuff like furniture or shoes when left alone. They usually get along with everyone, even strangers, so they’re not great guard dogs. Cavapoos are happiest when they get lots of love and attention, whether from a family or an older person.

1. Mitral Valve Disease (MVD):

• A heart condition affecting blood flow regulation.
• Symptoms: coughing, breathing difficulty, fainting.

• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA):

• Group of eye diseases leading to blindness.
• Genetic condition with treatments to slow progression.

• Hip Dysplasia:

• Misfit hip joints causing pain and lameness.
• Treatment: surgery or medication.

• Luxating Patella:

• Kneecap slipping out of place, causing pain.
• Treatment: surgery or physical therapy.

• Epilepsy:

• Neurological disorder resulting in seizures.
• Managed with medication but not curable.

• Syringomyelia:

• Fluid buildup in the spinal cord causing pain and weakness.
• Treatment: surgery or medication.

• Dental Problems:

• Common in Cavapoos, including tartar buildup, gum disease, and tooth loss.

• Allergies:

Cause various symptoms like skin issues, ear infections, and respiratory problems.

To keep your Cavapoo healthy, it’s important to take them for regular vet checkups to catch any health problems early. Your vet can guide you on how to best care for your dog.

Cavapoos can gain weight easily, which might lead to heart problems. Ensure they get at least one good half-hour to hour-long walk daily, along with some active playtime and shorter walks. Check their ears every day for dirt and bugs, and clean them as your vet suggests. Trim your dog’s nails every month or so to prevent them from getting too long and noisy when they walk. Your groomer can help with this. It’s also important to brush your dog’s teeth daily to avoid dental issues, especially since smaller breeds like Cavapoos are prone to them. Your vet can show you the right way to brush your dog’s teeth.

For your Cavapoo, it’s important to feed them a diet suitable for a small to medium-sized dog with lots of energy. They can easily gain weight if they eat too much, so it’s best to stick to a regular feeding schedule and avoid leaving food out all day.

Be mindful of how many treats they get too. Like all dogs, Cavapoos’ dietary needs change as they grow from puppies to adults and then into seniors. It’s wise to consult your vet for advice on your Cavapoo’s diet because every dog is different in terms of weight, energy levels, and health, making individual recommendations important.

Cavapoos often have a blend of their Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Poodle parents’ coats, showing a range of colors like cream, fawn, chocolate, gold, chestnut, and white. They might be a single color or a mix, often chestnut and white, or even tri-colored.

Their coats are usually short, soft, and wavy or curly, sometimes turning them into fluffy dogs that need regular grooming. Because of their Poodle side, they don’t shed as much, making them a good choice for people with allergies. Brushing their coat once a week helps keep it healthy.

Their curly fur lets them handle moderate cold and heat, but like any dog, they shouldn’t be left outside in extreme weather.

Since Cavapoos are small, they can easily get hurt by kids who are too excited, especially younger ones. It’s crucial that any children at home know how to play with your Cavapoo safely.

However, Cavapoos adore everyone and usually enjoy playing with kids. When it comes to other pets, Cavapoos can be friends with them too, as long as they are introduced slowly and calmly. Overall, Cavapoos are friendly and can get along well with other dogs and even cats if they’re socialized properly. But since they love attention, make sure you can still give them enough care and love if there are other pets around. Most Cavapoos can live happily with other animals, but it depends on training, socialization, and sometimes just luck.

Choosing a good dog breeder is super important when getting a new dog. Reputable breeders are serious about breeding healthy, friendly puppies that will be awesome companions. They check their parent dogs for health issues, make sure the puppies get used to being around people, and offer ongoing help and advice.

However, backyard breeders are mostly focused on making money rather than having healthy dogs. They might not check their parent dogs for health problems or teach the puppies how to behave around people. So, puppies from backyard breeders are more likely to have health and behavior problems.