Cavapoo

Quick Facts

Friendly, people focused companion who usually loves children and other pets
Cross between the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and the Poodle, often with a low shedding coat
Small to medium size that suits many living situations, from city apartments to suburban homes
Intelligent and eager to please, but can be sensitive and prone to separation anxiety
Popular family dog that thrives on company, gentle training, and regular grooming

Appearance & Coat

The Cavapoo is a small to medium companion dog with a soft, approachable look. Because it is a cross between the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and the Poodle, there is natural variation in appearance. Even puppies from the same litter can look quite different. However, most Cavapoos share a similar overall style: a compact body, expressive eyes, and a sweet, slightly rounded face that gives a permanent “puppy” expression.

Adult Cavapoos usually weigh between 5 and 12 kilograms, depending on the size of the Poodle parent, and stand roughly 25 to 38 centimetres at the shoulder. Those bred from a Toy Poodle tend to be at the smaller end of the scale, while those from a Miniature Poodle parent are often a little taller and heavier. Their proportions are typically balanced, with a moderately long body, a deep enough chest for good stamina, and a tail that may be carried gaily when they are happy and on the move.

The Cavapoo coat is one of its most appealing features, but it is also one of the most misunderstood. Many people hope for a “hypoallergenic” dog. Although Cavapoos often shed less than many other breeds, no dog is truly non shedding or guaranteed to be allergy friendly. Their coat texture may be:

Wavy and soft, like a slightly relaxed Poodle coat
Curly and dense, more similar to a Poodle
Silkier and more feathered, closer to the Cavalier side

Common colours include various shades of:

Apricot, cream, gold, or red
Black, chocolate, or tan
Tricolour (black, white, and tan)
Blenheim style patterns similar to Cavaliers, with chestnut and white

Some Cavapoos have white markings on the chest, paws, or face that add to their charm.

Coat care is an important part of living with a Cavapoo. The wavier and curlier the coat, the more grooming is required. As a general guideline, owners should plan for:

Brushing at least 3 to 4 times per week to prevent tangles and matting
A professional groom every 6 to 10 weeks, including trimming around the eyes, paws, and sanitary areas
Regular checks in areas prone to matting, such as behind the ears, under the collar, in the armpits, and around the hindquarters

Many owners find that keeping the coat in a shorter, neatly trimmed “teddy bear” style is practical and comfortable for the dog. Bathing every 4 to 6 weeks is usually enough unless the dog rolls in something unpleasant. Always use a gentle dog shampoo and work out any knots before bathing to avoid making mats tighter.

Because Cavapoos often inherit the floppy Cavalier style ears covered in hair, the ear canals can become warm and slightly moist, which encourages ear problems. Gently check inside the ears weekly for redness, odour, or excessive wax, and ask your vet or professional groomer how to safely keep the ear area clean.

Overall, the Cavapoo’s appearance is one of softness and affection. Combined with their manageable size and endearing expression, it is easy to see why this crossbreed has become such a favourite companion.

Temperament & Personality

The Cavapoo is primarily a companion dog and behaves very much like one. Most Cavapoos are affectionate, gentle, and highly people oriented. They tend to form strong bonds with their families and are at their happiest when they are involved in everyday life. Whether that means curling up on the sofa, following you from room to room, or joining a family walk, they like to be close and included.

With children, a well bred and well socialised Cavapoo is usually playful and patient, especially if the dog has grown up around kids and the children have been taught to respect the dog’s space. Their small size means that very young children should be supervised carefully to avoid accidental injury from rough handling or dropping. Many Cavapoos enjoy playing gentle games with older children, such as fetch in the garden, simple trick training, or cuddling on the bed during story time.

Their social nature often extends to other animals. Cavapoos commonly get along well with other dogs, particularly if introductions are made calmly and early in life. Their spaniel background can give them a bit of a chasing instinct, especially after birds or small animals that dash away, but many can live peaceably with cats if they are raised together or introduced sensibly. Slow introductions, clear routines, and supervision help build harmony in a multi pet home.

One of the biggest emotional strengths of the Cavapoo is also one of its greatest challenges. Because they are so attached to their humans, they can be prone to separation anxiety. Many do not enjoy being left alone for long periods and may show distress through barking, whining, destructive chewing, or toileting accidents. New owners should be ready to teach their Cavapoo from a young age that alone time is safe. Short absences, calm departures and arrivals, and using food toys or chews can help a great deal.

In terms of temperament, Cavapoos are usually:

Friendly and sociable with strangers, although some can be a little reserved at first
Sensitive and responsive to tone of voice and body language
Keen to please, but sometimes a little distractible if something exciting is happening nearby

A small proportion of Cavapoos may be more nervous or shy, especially if they have not been well socialised or come from poorly planned breeding. Early positive experiences with a variety of people, sights, sounds, and environments are very important. For example, regular gentle visits to parks, meeting calm dogs, and experiencing normal household noises all help them grow into confident adults.

Barking levels vary. Some Cavapoos are fairly quiet and only bark to alert their owners to visitors at the door. Others can become quite “chatty” if they are bored or anxious. Consistent boundaries, mental stimulation, and teaching a calm quiet cue are useful for managing noise.

Overall, the Cavapoo’s personality is that of a kind, affectionate, intelligent little companion with a lively side. They are rarely aloof and are generally more concerned with how to be part of the family’s fun than with guarding or being independent. This combination makes them particularly suited to homes that can offer time, interaction, and gentle guidance.

Training & Exercise

The Cavapoo’s Poodle heritage contributes a good measure of intelligence, while the Cavalier side adds a desire to please and a soft nature. This combination usually results in a dog that learns quickly and responds well to reward based training. At the same time, their sensitive temperament means that harsh methods, raised voices, or punishment can easily upset them and reduce their confidence.

Positive reinforcement is the best approach. Cavapoos typically work very well for:

Small tasty treats
Enthusiastic praise and happy body language
Short, fun training games with their favourite family members

Basic obedience training should start as soon as the puppy arrives home. Short sessions of 5 to 10 minutes are usually enough for young Cavapoos. Simple behaviours such as sit, down, come, and walking on a loose lead lay the foundation for good manners. Many owners find that Cavapoos enjoy learning tricks just as much as traditional obedience exercises. Teaching spins, high fives, or going to a bed on cue can be both entertaining and mentally stimulating.

House training can be relatively straightforward if the owner is consistent and uses clear routines. Regular trips outside, especially after sleeping, eating, and playing, along with plenty of praise for toileting in the right place, usually result in success. Some Cavapoos, particularly the smaller ones, may have slightly smaller bladders and therefore need more frequent bathroom breaks, especially during puppyhood.

In terms of exercise, the Cavapoo’s needs are moderate but should not be underestimated. They are not usually as high octane as working breeds, but they are far from being living cushions. As a rough guideline, an adult Cavapoo will typically benefit from:

Around 45 to 60 minutes of physical exercise per day
A mix of walks and off lead play in safe areas
Additional mental exercise through training, food puzzles, or interactive toys

Young puppies should not be over exercised while their joints are developing. Several short, gentle sessions throughout the day are better than one long, tiring walk. As they grow, you can gradually increase the length and challenge of their outings.

Cavapoos often enjoy:

Walks in the park, woods, or along quiet paths
Nose work games, such as hiding treats around the house
Simple agility or obstacle style games in the garden
Playing with friendly, well mannered dogs

Because of their sociable nature, dog training classes or puppy socialisation groups can be an excellent way to build skills and confidence. Choose classes that use kind methods and manage interactions carefully, so that your Cavapoo has positive experiences around other dogs and people.

Some Cavapoos may have a tendency to pull on the lead if allowed to practise this from a young age. Using a comfortable harness, rewarding the dog for staying close, and changing direction when the lead tightens can gradually teach better habits. Consistency from all family members is key. If one person allows pulling while another does not, the dog may become confused.

Mental fatigue is just as important as physical tiredness. A Cavapoo that has used its brain during a short training session or puzzle game is often more settled at home than one that has had only a long walk. By combining both types of exercise, owners can help prevent boredom based behaviours such as excessive barking or chewing.

Overall, the Cavapoo is a rewarding dog to train. With patience, clear guidance, and plenty of kindness, they often excel in everyday manners and can even go on to enjoy activities like agility, obedience, or therapy work.

Health

Because the Cavapoo is a cross between two pedigree breeds, it can inherit health strengths and weaknesses from both sides. Careful, health focused breeding is vital. Prospective owners should always ask breeders about health testing and be wary of anyone who avoids these questions or cannot show proof of tests.

Some health concerns that are seen in Cavaliers and Poodles, and which may appear in Cavapoos, include:

Heart disease, particularly mitral valve disease, which is common in Cavalier King Charles Spaniels
Eye problems, such as cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy
Patellar luxation, where the kneecap can slip out of place
Hip dysplasia in some lines
Ear infections related to floppy, hairy ears
Allergies and skin problems
Dental issues, especially in smaller dogs where teeth may be crowded

Any breeding dogs from the Cavalier side should ideally have regular heart checks, as heart conditions in Cavaliers are a well known concern. Asking whether the parents and, if possible, grandparents have been checked by a vet for murmurs or other cardiac issues is sensible.

From the Poodle side, eye tests and, depending on country and club guidelines, DNA testing for known inherited conditions in Toy or Miniature Poodles are advisable. Breeders who follow health recommendations from recognised kennel clubs and veterinary organisations contribute to a stronger, more robust Cavapoo population over time.

The typical lifespan of a Cavapoo is around 12 to 15 years, sometimes longer with good care. As with all dogs, maintaining a healthy weight makes a significant difference to both quality and length of life. Cavapoos can be quite food motivated and may easily gain weight if overfed or given too many treats. Body condition should be checked regularly. You should be able to feel the ribs under a light layer of flesh, and the dog should have a visible waist when viewed from above.

Routine veterinary care is essential. This usually includes:

Vaccinations and appropriate boosters
Regular parasite control for fleas, ticks, and worms
Yearly health check ups, including teeth, ears, and heart
Dental cleaning when recommended, as tartar build up is common in smaller breeds

Owners should watch out for signs such as:

Coughing, tiring easily, or reduced ability to exercise, which can be linked to heart or respiratory issues
Red, itchy skin or constant scratching, which may indicate allergies
Cloudiness in the eyes, bumping into objects, or hesitation on stairs, which can point to eye problems
Limping, stiffness, or difficulty jumping, which could signal joint issues

Early detection usually offers more options for management or treatment. Building a good relationship with your vet and attending regular check ups gives your Cavapoo the best chance of staying healthy.

Insurance is worth serious consideration. While Cavapoos are generally fairly robust, the possibility of inherited problems such as heart or eye disease means that veterinary costs can sometimes become significant. A suitable insurance policy can help owners make decisions based on what is best for the dog, rather than solely on cost.

Overall, responsible breeding, a balanced diet, steady exercise, and proactive veterinary care all contribute to a long and comfortable life for the Cavapoo.

History & Origins

The Cavapoo is part of the growing group of “designer” or intentional crossbreeds created from two established pedigree breeds. In this case, the parents are usually a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a Toy or Miniature Poodle. While informal crosses may have existed earlier, the Cavapoo began attracting more organised attention towards the end of the twentieth century and especially in the early twenty first century.

The purpose behind creating the Cavapoo was to combine the gentle, affectionate nature of the Cavalier with the intelligence and low shedding coat qualities of the Poodle. Cavaliers are famous for their sweet temperament and love of human contact, but they shed and have some well known health challenges. Poodles bring sharp intelligence, trainability, and a curly coat that tends to drop less hair. Breeders hoped that this combination would produce a small companion dog well suited to modern family life, including people living in apartments or urban homes.

Early Cavapoo breeding was most developed in countries such as Australia, where breeders were already experimenting with crosses like the Labradoodle. Over time, interest spread to the United Kingdom, Europe, and North America. The name “Cavapoo” is widely used, although in some regions you may also hear “Cavoodle,” which refers to essentially the same cross.

Unlike the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and the Poodle, which have long, well documented histories and recognised breed standards with major kennel clubs, the Cavapoo is not usually registered as a separate pedigree breed with national kennel clubs. Instead, it is considered a crossbreed. This means that appearances can vary and that there is no single official standard that all breeders must follow. However, many responsible breeders work to produce Cavapoos that are consistent in size, temperament, and health, guided by demand from families and by veterinary health recommendations.

Today, Cavapoos are almost always bred as companion animals rather than for working roles. Their friendly, people oriented nature has also made them popular volunteers in informal therapy situations, such as visiting older people, reading programs with children, or simply acting as supportive pets for owners who appreciate their calm, loving presence.

The Cavapoo illustrates how carefully planned crossbreeding can meet modern lifestyle needs. People living in smaller homes often want a dog that is sociable, adaptable, and manageable in size and grooming. The Cavapoo fits this requirement nicely, which explains its rapid rise in popularity. As interest has grown, so has the importance of supporting ethical breeders who focus on health testing and long term welfare instead of quick commercial gains.

In essence, the Cavapoo’s history is still unfolding. It stands at a point between two well established breeds and a potential future as a more standardised type. What remains constant is its role as a devoted companion, shaped by the affectionate Cavalier and the clever, stylish Poodle.

Living with the Breed

Life with a Cavapoo is usually filled with affection, gentle fun, and a strong sense of companionship. For many owners, these dogs feel like a true part of the family rather than just pets. However, their charm comes with responsibilities that prospective owners should understand before bringing one home.

First, Cavapoos thrive on company. They are not ideal for households where everyone is out for long working days with no arrangements for dog care. A Cavapoo left alone regularly for many hours is more likely to develop separation related behaviours such as barking, howling, or chewing furniture. Homes where someone works from home, has flexible hours, or can arrange dog sitters, family help, or doggy day care are usually better suited.

Daily life with a Cavapoo involves:

Regular walks and playtime
Consistent training and boundaries
Ongoing grooming and coat care
Plenty of social interaction and affection

Financially, it is important to plan beyond the initial purchase price of the puppy. Annual costs typically include:

Quality dog food appropriate for the dog’s age and activity level
Routine veterinary care, vaccinations, and parasite control
Pet insurance, which is strongly recommended
Professional grooming several times a year, especially for curlier coats
Replacement toys, leads, beds, and other equipment

The cost of grooming alone can surprise some first time Cavapoo owners. A professional groom every 6 to 10 weeks adds up over the year. Owners who are prepared to learn basic at home brushing and maintenance can help reduce time and cost at the salon, but most Cavapoos still benefit from regular professional trimming.

Useful equipment for living comfortably with a Cavapoo may include:

A well fitted harness and lightweight lead for walks
A comfortable bed or crate where the dog can rest and feel secure
Food puzzle toys and chew items to keep the mind busy
Slicker brush, metal comb, and dog friendly shampoo for coat care
Toothbrush and dog toothpaste for maintaining dental health

Cavapoos usually adapt well to different housing types, from flats to larger houses, as long as they receive adequate exercise and mental stimulation. Access to a secure garden is helpful but not essential if the dog is taken for regular walks and toilet breaks. Because they are small and usually friendly, they often fit well into social environments, including visits to friends, dog friendly cafés, or holiday accommodation, as long as they are trained to behave calmly in public.

Travel is generally easier with a Cavapoo than with larger breeds, provided they are gradually introduced to car journeys, carriers, or crates in a positive way. Many Cavapoos enjoy accompanying their owners on trips and quickly learn to settle in new places if their basic needs and routines remain consistent.

Potential owners should also be ready to invest time in early socialisation and training. The effort you put in during the first year will shape your Cavapoo’s behaviour for the rest of its life. This means saying yes to puppy classes, meeting a variety of friendly people and dogs, exposing the puppy to everyday sights and sounds, and rewarding calm, confident behaviour.

In return, living with a Cavapoo often brings a sense of warm, cheerful companionship. Their tendency to seek out cuddles, their soft, expressive faces, and their enthusiasm for everyday adventures make them rewarding dogs for many types of families. With the right preparation, realistic expectations, and a commitment to meeting their social, grooming, and health needs, a Cavapoo can be a delightful and loving member of the household for many years.

Characteristics

Characteristic	Value
Breed Type	Crossbreed
Aggressiveness	3/5
Child Friendly	3/5
Energy	3/5
Hair Shedding	3/5
Health	3/5
Intelligence	3/5
Grooming Needs	3/5
Learning Ability	3/5
Barking Level	3/5
Height	0 – 0 cm
Weight	0 – 0 kg
Life Expectancy	0 – 0 years

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of temperament does a Cavapoo usually have?

Most are affectionate, people focused and quite gentle, often inheriting the Cavalier’s softness along with the Poodle’s alertness. They typically enjoy being close to their owners, cope well with polite children and can be friendly with strangers, but some lines can be more sensitive or shy without careful early socialisation.

Are Cavapoos good for people with allergies and do they shed?

Many have low to moderate shedding coats, especially when the Poodle influence is strong, but they are not guaranteed to be hypoallergenic. Some individuals shed more like a Cavalier, so allergy sufferers should meet the specific dog and expect regular grooming to manage dander and loose hair.

How much exercise does a Cavapoo need each day?

Most do well with around 45 to 60 minutes of physical exercise a day split into a couple of walks, plus short play sessions. They are usually lively and enjoy activity, but their small size and Cavalier heritage mean they should not be over-exercised, particularly as young puppies or in hot weather.

What health problems are Cavapoos prone to?

They may inherit issues seen in Cavaliers and Poodles, such as heart disease (especially mitral valve disease), ear infections, dental crowding and some joint or eye conditions. Reputable breeders screen the parent dogs for known hereditary problems, which helps reduce risk but cannot eliminate it completely.

How big do Cavapoos get and when are they fully grown?

Most adult dogs fall in the small range, often around 8 to 12 kilograms, with height influenced by whether the Poodle parent was toy or miniature. They typically reach most of their adult height by about 9 months and fill out in body condition up to around 12 to 15 months of age.

Do Cavapoos bark a lot or tend to be noisy?

They are usually moderate barkers, often vocal when excited, alerting to visitors or if left alone and anxious. With consistent training and enough mental stimulation, most can learn to keep barking under control, but very clingy individuals may be more prone to attention seeking noise.

How much grooming does a Cavapoo’s coat really need?

Their coats can range from wavy to quite curly and usually require brushing at least several times a week to prevent mats, plus professional grooming every 6 to 10 weeks. Without regular coat care, tangling around the ears, armpits and tail base is common and can quickly become uncomfortable for the dog.

Are Cavapoos easy to train, especially for first time owners?

Most are intelligent and eager to please, which lends itself well to reward based training and makes them manageable for committed beginners. Their sensitive nature means harsh methods can backfire, so they respond best to calm guidance, clear routines and plenty of short, positive training sessions.

Can a Cavapoo cope in an apartment or small home?

They usually adapt well to smaller living spaces as long as they receive daily walks, play and interaction with their owners. More active individuals or those with strong Poodle traits will need extra mental enrichment, such as food puzzles and training games, to prevent restlessness indoors.

Do Cavapoos get separation anxiety if left alone?

Many form very close bonds and can struggle if suddenly left for long periods, which may lead to barking or destructive behaviour. Early training that teaches them to relax alone, combined with a predictable routine and adequate exercise, can greatly reduce the risk of serious separation issues.