The lively hybrid dog Cavapoo, sometimes called a Cavadoodle or Cavoodle, is a sociable family and companion dog that is sure to captivate you. With its cute appearance, intelligence, and affection, this little whirlwind wins the hearts of dog lovers everywhere.
History of the Cavapoo
In the 1990s, the first Cavapoos were born in Australia. It is a hybrid breed that is now popular not only in Australia and the USA but also has numerous fans in Europe. What mix is a Cavapoo? The name Cavoodle already hints at the breeds from which the hybrid originated. The lovable dog is a cross between a Poodle and a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. Both breeds have their advantages, and the Cavapoo combines them. Recognition by the FCI (Fédération Cynologique Internationale) has not yet been achieved. However, due to its worldwide popularity, it is likely only a matter of time.
Breed Overview
GROUP: Hybrid
HEIGHT: 11 to 14 inches (males); 9 to 11 inches (females)
WEIGHT: 10 to 20 pounds (males); 9 to 15 pounds (females)
COAT: Medium length, wavy or curly coat
COAT COLOR: Cream, fawn, chocolate, gold, chestnut, tri-color; Can be solid or have white markings
LIFE SPAN: 12 to 15 years
TEMPERAMENT: Friendly, affectionate, gentle, playful, loyal, even-tempered
HYPOALLERGENIC: Yes
ORIGIN: Australia
Nature and Character
As it is a relatively young hybrid breed, individual traits and characteristics may vary in strength. Nevertheless, every Cavapoo will delight you with its intelligence, liveliness, affection, and sensitivity. The sweet four-legged friend goes through the world friendly and enjoys attention. Nevertheless, dogs of the breed are always vigilant and extremely loyal to “their” people. Eagerness to learn ensures that the mixed breed’s play and exercise needs can be satisfied in various ways.
Cavapoos are open and curious towards both adults and children, other animals, and their own kind. However, more important to the faithful family and companion dog than the environment are “its” humans, so it is not surprising that the lively furballs do not like to be alone.
Affection Level | High |
Friendliness | High |
Kid-Friendly | High |
Pet-Friendly | High |
Exercise Needs | Medium |
Playfulness | High |
Energy Level | Medium |
Trainability | High |
Intelligence | High |
Tendency to Bark | Low |
Amount of Shedding | Low |
Acquiring a Cavapoo
If you are considering getting a Cavoodle, you should not underestimate the little whirlwind. Likewise, you should not rush into anything and make the decision for the hybrid dog carefully. Even though a dog of the breed is likely to sweeten your everyday life, you should only choose one if you have enough time for the furball. Also, you should consider that cute Cavapoo puppies can be very lively well into old age. Due to its affection and the close bond that the purebred dog will build with you, you should be able to provide a loving home for it for its entire life.
What should I look for when buying?
Since the mix is not yet a recognized breed, it is particularly important that you visit the breeder and get a precise impression of the dogs and the premises. The number of reputable breeders in the United States is still quite manageable. A reputable breeder can provide you with the pedigree papers of the parent animals. He will also carefully document his litters and show you the veterinary records.
How much does a Cavapoo cost? As the demand for hybrid dogs continues to rise, prices of between $1,500 and $3,000 are often quoted for a puppy. However, there are also cheaper offers. It is important not to buy from a “breeder,” but from a breeder who cares about the welfare of the animals. Therefore, take the time to talk to the breeder, and let your impressions sink in before deciding to buy a Cavapoo puppy.
Development and Training of the Puppy
Even though it might be difficult, consistent yet affectionate training is a must for the adorable Australian. With a glance from its big puppy eyes, the intelligent four-legged friend effortlessly wraps you around its paw. The danger lies here, as the Cavapoo is not only cute but also alert and brave, and would naturally defend you, its loyal human. Consequently, it’s essential to provide good training for the sweet pup from an early age. Thanks to its willingness to learn and intelligence, the lively hybrid dog quickly learns its first commands. Especially since the Cavoodle’s ancestors also have hunting instincts, it’s important to work on recall.
A well-trained representative of the breed is a perfect companion and an uncomplicated family dog who enjoys being by your side in all activities. Even Cavoodle puppies want to please their humans, so it’s up to you to instill the desired behavior rules from the beginning.
How to Care for a Cavapoo?
The hybrid dog doesn’t demand much from its environment. Whether it’s a city apartment or a house with its own garden in the countryside, the lively dog feels comfortable anywhere. As playful and relaxed dogs, they feel particularly at home as family pets and enjoy romping around in the garden with the children. However, the lovable furball is also suitable for singles and active seniors, as long as it’s ensured that it doesn’t have to be alone for several hours. In all situations, it’s important to fulfill the active dog’s needs and at the same time provide it with a calm and undisturbed retreat so that it can rest when needed.
Activities with the Cavapoo
Lively and spirited, these hybrid dogs can be described well. How much exercise does a Cavapoo need? Daily walks are an absolute must. However, the affectionate dog also needs mental stimulation. So don’t hesitate to teach it small tricks and commands. Training is not a necessary chore for the Cavoodle; instead, it brings great joy.
The lovable dog is also very playful, so it eagerly participates in search games and retrieving. Therefore, you should regularly incorporate intelligence and sniffing games into its routine. But even during shared hikes, the Cavoodle proves to be a perfect companion. Additionally, you can engage in various dog sports activities with the energetic four-legged friend.
Grooming a Cavapoo
With its silky coat, the friendly four-legged friend enjoys grooming. Since the silky coat tends to mat, you should brush it several times a week. However, the soft fur is easily manageable with regular brushing. It’s important to pay special attention to the densely haired floppy ears and clean them regularly. Bathing is not a problem for it, but you should only bathe the dog as needed with mild dog shampoo.
Health and Hereditary Diseases
In general, it’s a robust dog. However, it’s important that the animals come from responsible breeding. Consequently, you should buy a Cavapoo after assessing the breeder and the parent animals. Due to their genetics, breed-specific diseases of both Poodles and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels can occur. These include knee problems, progressive retinal atrophy (eye disease), dry eyes, heart disease, or syringomyelia, which affects Cavalier King Charles Spaniels repeatedly. Accordingly, you should check the veterinary records of the parent animals.
Interesting and Worth Knowing
Is a Cavapoo suitable for allergy sufferers? As a low-shedding dog, thanks to the Poodle component, the Australian is often recommended for allergy sufferers. The possibility that allergy sufferers will not show a reaction is given, but not guaranteed. Accordingly, allergy sufferers should visit the breeder several times and interact with the animals to check for any allergic reactions.
Not only the Cavapoo is a Poodle mix. Hybrid dogs with “poo” or “oodle” in the name clearly indicate the Poodle. Thus, the Doodle, Goldendoodle, Labradoodle, Maltipoo, and Cockapoo are all family-friendly Poodle mixes.