The Cavapoo is a mixed dog breed that recently gained popularity for its endless kindness and hypoallergenic coat. These pocket-sized balls of joy are also great companions and would never get tired of your cuddles.
But how did this breed arise? And how do you take care of it? Keep reading to find out the answers to all your Cavoodle questions.
- What Is the Cavadoodle?
- Who Are Its Parents?
- Special Characteristics
- Health Issues
- How to Take Care of a Cavapoodle
- What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages?
- Where Can You Find a Cavapoodle?
What Is a Cavapoo?
The Cavapoo is a miniature dog breed, a cross between a Poodle and a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. It’s also known as Cavoodle or Cavadoodle and is one of the most popular breeds worldwide.
Cavapoos are adorable and loving. Also, they’re the perfect therapy dog as they’re naturally kind and sensitive.
History of the Breed
Even though the Cavoodles’ popularity is recent, they’ve been around for some time. They originated in Australia in the 1950s and were already intentionally bred by the 1990s for the UK and US markets.
The desire for a small, affectionate, and friendly non-shedding dog breed was the driving force behind these furballs. Cavapoo puppies slowly but surely conquered people’s hearts and became an irreplaceable part of their lives.
About the Parents
The Cavadoodle is a mixed breed. It’s the offspring of two purebred dogs — the Poodle and Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. Both breeds are lovely, intelligent, and proved to produce healthy and lively puppies.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Poodle mix became famous mainly because of its tiny size. The minuscule dimensions are mainly attributed to its Spaniel parent.
This breed originated long ago, at least around the time of the Renaissance (17th century). During this time, King Charles I and his son Charles II were especially fond of these dogs. Charles II was so devoted to his pups that the breed was eventually named after him.
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is an active and cheerful dog. It’s a fantastic companion that would be just as comfy laying on the couch as running in the park and chasing squirrels.
Sadly, this lovely creature is prone to many health conditions like hip dysplasia, ear infections, and heart disease.
Poodle
The Cavapoo boasts intelligence that came from its Poodle parent. This breed might be France’s national dog, but it originated as a duck hunting companion in Germany.
The Poodle started developing in the 1600s. The pup’s curly coat protected it from the cool waters and wind, so it was an excellent retrieving water dog. Its unique looks and ability to learn commands took the Poodle from the cold German waters to the laps of French aristocrats.
But this pooch is also prone to unpleasant health conditions. These include hip dysplasia, eye disorders, and von Willebrand’s disease.
Cavapoo Characteristics
We can all agree that Cavapoos are incredibly cute. They’re fluffy, smart, and loyal. These dogs love spending time with their humans and being part of a family.
But what other characteristics make this beautiful mini breed so fantastic?
Cavapoo Training
Cavapoos are brilliant puppies. They learn fast and are food-motivated. But like any other dog, you have to use positive reinforcement and stay consistent.
Cavoodles and puppy potty training might be a bit of a challenge. But remain patient and take your puppy outside every time you see it sniffing the carpet or circling nervously.
Generally, these pups are easy to train, so take a handful of tasty treats and head out.
Adaptability
The King Charles Poodle mix is incredibly adaptive. These puppies feel just as good spending their days laying around as hiking in the countryside. They make amazing apartment dogs but are also great at outdoor activities.
In terms of weather adaptability, the Cavoodle can tolerate cold. But don’t leave it outside on a hot summer day. These pooches are quite sensitive to warmth and can overheat because of their thick double coats.
Cavapoo Size
Here’s the main issue with mixed breeds. You can’t be sure how big the pup will be when it grows up. Some look more like their moms, others like their dads, or in between.
So in terms of height, the Cavoodle can be anywhere from 9–14 inches and weigh between 12–25 pounds. The females are usually smaller and lighter.
Cavapoo Personality
Cavapooches (see what I did there?) are kind and loving doggies. They’re the perfect companion for both families and singles. These pups love playing and meeting new people and dogs.
They’re outgoing, sweet, and super friendly — definitely not the guard dog type.
Is a Cavapoo a Good Family Dog?
Cavapoos aren’t just good family dogs — they’re amazing ones. Because they’re non-shedding dogs, kids and adults with allergies will likely be fine with them. Plus, they’re perfect for first-time dog owners, as they’re not high maintenance. Also, they have fewer exercise requirements compared to bigger doggies.
Cavapoo Lifespan
Cavapoodles have a long lifespan as their parents live around 9 to 15 years. Usually, a healthy and happy puppy would live approximately 12–15 years.
The Cavapoo and Separation Anxiety
Because of their endless friendliness, the puppies get attached fast. They tend to get clingy and follow you everywhere (including the toilet).
Cavoodles frequently develop separation anxiety if left alone regularly. So they’re not suitable for owners who work long hours and can’t spend enough time with them.
If you want a doggy that you can leave alone longer, you might want to opt for a Basset Hound.
Do Cavapoos Bark a Lot?
This dog breed is naturally calm and friendly. They’re far from guard dogs and won’t bother with barking or howling.
Due to the incredible love for their human parents, these pups would want to spend every second of their time with you. Also, they’re very social, which makes them prone to separation anxiety.
Loneliness might turn a usually calm pup into a loud disaster. To stop dog barking, you can try not to leave your puppy alone for too long. And if you need to be away for more than a few hours, maybe ask a friend to take care of your pet.
Cavapoo Health Issues
Some breeders believe in the so-called “hybrid vigor” — the assumption that mixed breeds are healthier than pure ones because there’s more variability in their gene pools. It’s supposed to lower the chance of developing specific genetic conditions. But, there’s not enough data to support this claim.
And so, our beautiful Cavapoos are usually predisposed to the same conditions as their parents.
Hip Dysplasia
This condition is common in Cavapoo puppies. It’s characterized by a shallow hip socket that can’t cover the whole ball of the upper thigh bone and decreases the range of motion. That causes limping, pain, and lameness in the hind end.
Hip dysplasia is usually hereditary, but it can also be triggered by fast growth, obesity, and improper nutrition. Too much exercise or too little at a young age can contribute further to the development of this condition.
You can get vitamins for dogs, supplements, or vet-prescribed medications to soothe and treat the condition. In some cases, a surgical procedure is required to replace the hip.
Luxating Patella
The Cavalier Poodle mix often suffers from a condition where the kneecap (aka patella) dislocates. It causes pain and limping as the cap prevents knee bending.
Physiotherapy and exercise control could prevent further slipping of the patella. In severe cases, your pup might need surgery.
Skin Allergies
The Cavapoo is prone to skin allergies. While the Poodle isn’t usually the allergic type, the same cannot be said about its partner — the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.
And since allergies run in the family, the Cavapoos often end up with the same atopies as their parents.
To determine if your pup has this problem, your vet might want to run a dog allergy test. Knowing what triggers your pup’s allergic reactions will help you treat and prevent future flare-ups.
How to Take Care of a Cavapoo
Looking after this mini breed isn’t hard. They’re low to medium maintenance and usually don’t require lots of dog care.
Monthly Wash
Washing your puppy monthly is a must, no matter the breed. Baths keep the fur clean and prevent matting and dandruff buildup.
But don’t overdo it. If you wash your pup too often, its coat might become dry. When you use shampoos excessively, they remove the natural oils in your puppy’s skin that keeps its fur healthy and shiny.
Cavapoo Grooming
Grooming your pooch regularly ensures its health and happiness. Even though Cavapoos don’t shed a lot, you should still brush them daily to avoid tangling.
These pups also need a monthly groomer’s salon visit for hair clipping. So, why not save some money and have a pleasant bonding experience by learning how to groom your dog at home?
How Much Exercise Does a Cavapoo Need?
Even though they’re a mini breed, Cavadoodles require daily exercise. Without that, dogs become bored and develop behavioral problems like barking and shoe-eating. Plus, activity is vital for their muscle health and proper brain development.
Provide your pup with at least 30 minutes of daily physical activity, and make sure to also train the brain by teaching your pet tricks and giving it dog puzzles.
Cavapoo Pros and Cons
Every dog has a good and not-so-good side. The Cavapooch is no exception. Here are the most prominent pros and cons.
Pros:
- Low-shedding — The Cavapoo is hypoallergenic, making it perfect for people with allergies.
- High life expectancy of 12–15 years.
- It’s kind, lovable, and suitable for apartment living.
- The Cavapoo has high intelligence, and it’s easy to train.
Cons:
- Not suitable for busy owners
- Prone to diseases
- Very sensitive to heat
- Expensive — $900–$2900
What Are the Cavoodle Alternatives?
Do you still want a small puppy but feel discouraged to get a Cavoodle? Here are several similar mixes that are both small and adorable:
- Cockapoo (Cocker Spaniel and Poodle)
- Maltipoo (Maltese and Poodle)
- Yorkipoo (Yorkshire Terrier and Poodle)
These beautiful crossbreeds are just as nice and affectionate as the Cavoodle.
Where to Buy or Adopt a Cavapoo
If you’ve decided on a Cavoodle, you should know that you might find these pups in US shelters.
They’re usually quite an expensive niche breed. But if somehow a pooch escapes and gets pregnant, the owners might decide to give the puppies for adoption.
Another option is the Cavapoo rescue groups that have become popular in recent years. Look into the Doodle Dandy Rescue in Texas, Poodle Rescue Connecticut, and Poodles and Pals in California. These groups focus on saving Poodles and Poodle mixes from the streets and shelters where the pups might face euthanasia.
Finally, if you want to buy a pup, always choose reputable Cavapoo breeders. It’s crucial to investigate the breeder well before purchasing a pup.
Make sure to check their reviews and ask about the puppy’s parents. A reliable breeder will answer all your questions and give you detailed information on how to take care of your new best friend.
Conclusion
The Cavoodle is a loving, cheerful, and outgoing mixed dog breed. It loves humans and would want to spend every second on your lap. The breed has recently gained popularity for its hypoallergenic coat and friendly personality.
The Cavapoo is an excellent family dog that would bring joy into your home. But bear in mind that these tiny dogs are predisposed to many hereditary conditions like hip dysplasia and skin allergies.
Despite its popularity, you can find a Cavapoo in shelters and rescues throughout the country. So before going to your local breeder for a mini Cavadoodle, consider adopting.
