8-17 lbs
9-11"
United States
The Cavapoo is a cross between two popular breeds, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, and the Poodle. Playful and fun, this hybrid breed is a small dog with a big personality, and has become hugely popular as a family pet.
Their sunny nature and off-the-charts cuteness makes Cavapoos a great choice for a first-time dog owner, whether you’re looking to adopt and rehome a pup from a rescue center, or buy one from a reputable breeder.
In our instant expert guide to the Cavapoo, you’ll discover:
The loveable Cavapoo is a small to medium-sized dog that combines the physical and personality traits of the two breeds it originates from — the King Charles Spaniel, and the Poodle. It’s also known as the Cavadoodle, so don’t be confused; it’s essentially the same designer breed.
The Cavapoo typically has high intelligence (both the Poodle and King Charles Spaniel are smart breeds), and a real playful side, with plenty of energy without being overwhelming. Cavapoos are affectionate and loving, and usually calm around the home environment.
These qualities make it a firm favorite with families and is especially comfortable around younger children.
What is a Cavapoo, and where did it come from? Well, while the Poodle originated from Germany and the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel heralded from England, the hybrid these two breeds have created was first bred in Australia, during the 1950s.
The intention was to combine the Poodle’s low-shedding, almost hypoallergenic coat, and high IQ, with the sweet nature of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.
Cavapoos were introduced to the United States in the 1990 and have become increasingly popular over the last few decades.
The Cavapoo usually varies in appearance, depending on the genetic influence on its parents.
For example, Cavapoo size depends largely on the size of the Poodle parent (all Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are approximately the same size). There are four sizes of Poodle, with the Standard the largest, followed by the Medium, and then the Miniature Poodle and the smallest, the Toy Poodle.
Although it’s possible, it’s relatively rare to see a Cavapoo that’s bred from one parent being a Standard Poodle — the most common types are the Toy Cavapoo, and the Mini Cavapoo. The Toy Cavapoo, full grown, is typically up to 12 inches tall, while the slightly taller Mini Cavapoo can reach 14 inches.
Their faces are undeniably adorable; usually compact with long, fringed, floppy ears, and set either side of large, expressive and innocent-looking brown eyes. The muzzle is short, with a cute black button nose. The Cavapoo’s body is small but well proportioned, with short and strong legs that sometimes have the Cavalier’s fringing. The coat is smooth and wavy, with an almost silky quality to it — Cavapoos are irresistible to fuss.
Cavapoo colors vary, including an apricot-like shade, red, white, black, tan, brown and white. Some Cavapoo dogs have a tri-color coat, a combination of three different colors.
Many first-time Cavapoo owners ask two key questions when it comes to maintenance and looking after their dog. Do Cavapoos shed? And, are Cavapoos hypoallergenic?
Yes, Cavapoos do shed — but a lot less than many other breeds, which makes them a brilliant choice for pet parents who may suffer from allergies. And, while no breed of dog can ever be considered 100% hypoallergenic, the Cavapoo is one of those far more likely to be allergy-friendly.
Maintenance needs of Cavapoos are moderate. Their coat needs no more than a weekly brushing, to keep them looking their best, and they give off only a low odor. They only need an occasional bath — unless they get dirty during a walk in bad weather, of course.
You should inspect your Cavapoo regularly to check for any ear infections; this breed can be prone to them, and it’s a condition that can get smelly and itchy. Check toenails, too, to ensure there are no snags in the fur, and the coat to avoid any matting.
A Cavapoo needs grooming professionally a few times a year. The coat should be clipped to keep it manageable (and to require less frequent bathing and brushing from you).If you have a Cavapoo puppy, it’s a good idea to get him or her used to basic maintenance tasks, such as gently wiping ears, brushing teeth and maybe even clipping nails. Make sure you praise your pup extravagantly when they do well, and you will have a dog that enjoys its weekly health check and maintenance program.
A wellness plan can be a great way of keeping on top of routine vet appointments, with boosters and annual shots included. You can add a series of extra services to your plan, too — including grooming. Build your perfect wellness plan here, with Wag!
All breeds of dog can develop health problems, especially as they age, and the Cavapoo is no different. The average Cavapoo lifespan is between 12 to 15 years, so this is a dog capable of living a long, happy and fulfilling life — but there are some particular health issues you should be aware of. Common Cavapoo health risks can include:
Known as PRA, Progressive Retinal Atrophy is a condition that affects a dog’s eyesight. It’s a gradual condition that affects both eyes, and usually starts with a loss of night vision before day vision also deteriorates. It eventually leads to total blindness. There isn’t a cure for PRA, though it’s completely painless. Read more about Progressive Retinal Atrophy and how to manage it here.
Any dog can fall ill or suffer a medical condition, and Cavapoos are no different. The best way of looking after your Cavapoo is to have a comprehensive pet insurance policy in place. Compare best plans in seconds using our online search tool and make sure your pup is covered.
As Cavapoo size can vary, it’s important to give your dog the appropriate amount of food for its weight. Like many other brands, if overfed, the Cavapoo can become overweight if portions aren’t correct.
Ideally, a Cavapoo needs a diet that’s high in protein and delivers the energy levels it needs to thrive. A Cavapoo puppy will need more frequent meals, of smaller amounts, but as a Cavapoo becomes full grown that should be adapted to two meals a day.
The Cavapoo is a great companion dog for anyone, from a senior citizen to a small child. They’re real ‘people’ dogs — they adore being with their family and may pine when left alone, so probably don’t suit a household that’s empty a lot of the time.
The Cavapoo can be somewhat hyperactive at home, racing around the house in excitement when you return to the house to be with them. However, they’re just as eager to cuddle up on your lap and will take as much attention as you can give them without tiring. They’re highly intelligent and learn quickly, but respond best to a kind attitude, patience and loads of praise.
The friendly Cavapoo temperament means it mixes well with other people, dogs and pets. Very young children should be supervised around this small dog as injury to the dog can occur unintentionally from rough play and over-excitement. These dogs are eager to please and will try hard to do what you ask — just don’t let them think they’re the boss or they may develop bad habits. Again, gentle but firm insistence on ‘good doggie manners’ should start from the day you get these little powerhouses. Cavapoo puppies are really receptive to training.
Although Cavapoos love a cuddle, they’re an active little dog and need a decent amount of exercise a day — around 60 minutes. They adore being taken for a walk, enjoying outdoor exercise and the chance of interacting with other people and dogs.
This is a dog that’s ideal for apartment living, too. They adapt well to the lifestyle of their owners and aim to please. More than anything, Cavapoos want to be with the owner all the time; they’re not a dog to be ignored. Provide a welcoming home and the Cavapoo will reward you with love, affection, loyalty and undying devotion.
Written by Kevin Hughes
Published: 10/25/2017, edited: 11/02/2023
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Good vet record
Good vet record
round us. We are also considering an Australian border collie. We would .like your advice on a dog beyond the puppy stage. Baileys
