Cavapoo
Updated December 1, 2025
Cavapoos are a cross between the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and the Poodle. They are known for their gentle nature, intelligence, and adorable appearance, making them wonderful companion pets.
Affectionate, Playful, Sociable, Intelligent, Gentle
10-25 pounds
9-14 inches
12-15 years
Cream, Apricot, Red, Black, White, Tri-color, Blonde
At a Glance
Good with Kids
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About Cavapoo
Cavapoos are a cross between the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and the Poodle. They are known for their gentle nature, intelligence, and adorable appearance, making them wonderful companion pets.
What Makes Cavapoos Special
Cavapoos are lovable, loyal, and full of charm. Their affectionate personality and moderate energy make them ideal pets for a wide range of households.
They love to play and cuddle equally, often forming strong bonds with all family members and even other pets.
Cavapoo History & Origin
Cavapoos were first bred in Australia in the late 1990s as part of the designer dog trend. They were developed to combine the Poodle’s intelligence and low-shedding coat with the Cavalier’s affectionate temperament.
The Cavapoo is a crossbreed (also known as a designer breed) between a Miniature or Toy Poodle and a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.
They quickly gained popularity in Australia and the United States due to their friendly nature and hypoallergenic qualities.
Cavapoos are not recognized by the AKC but are acknowledged by several hybrid and designer breed registries.
Their popularity has led to the development of breed-specific care and grooming standards.
Despite being a hybrid, many Cavapoos have consistent temperaments and features due to responsible breeding.
Cavapoo Characteristics
Dogs are individuals and not all dogs, even those of the same breed, will exhibit all the same qualities.
Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Grooming Needs
Training Needs
Health Issues
Shedding Level
Cavapoo Appearance
Cavapoos are small, teddy bear-like dogs with a soft, wavy or curly coat that comes in a variety of colors.
Their sweet expression and fluffy ears add to their irresistible charm.
Physical Features
Ears
Soft, floppy, and often curly
Eyes
Round, dark, and expressive
Nose
Black and small, with a cute button-like appearance
Coat & Build
Coat Length
Soft, medium-length curls or waves
Coat Color
Varies widely, including cream, apricot, red, tri-color, and black
Tail
Feathered tail that curls slightly over the back
Cavapoo Temperament
Cavapoos are sociable and love spending time with their human companions. They're a great choice for families, singles, and seniors alike.
They inherit the intelligence of the Poodle and the gentle nature of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, making them quick learners and eager to please.
Cavapoos enjoy playtime and cuddles in equal measure, and are typically friendly towards strangers and other animals.
They thrive in homes where they’re not left alone for long periods, as they crave human interaction.
With proper training and early socialization, Cavapoos grow into well-mannered, adaptable companions.
Temperament Traits
Good With
Health
Cavapoos are generally healthy but may inherit health issues from parent breeds. Regular vet visits and a healthy lifestyle help maintain longevity.
Common Health Issues
Preventive Care
Routine vet checkups, grooming, clean diet, genetic screening if possible
How to Care for a Cavapoo
Cavapoos are relatively low-maintenance dogs, but they require consistent grooming and daily mental and physical stimulation to stay happy and healthy.
Grooming
Cavapoos require regular brushing (at least 3-4 times a week) to prevent matting and tangles in their soft coat.
Professional grooming every 6-8 weeks helps maintain coat health and appearance.
Clean ears regularly and monitor for signs of infection due to their floppy ear structure.
Brush teeth daily and trim nails every few weeks.
Training
Cavapoos are intelligent and respond well to positive reinforcement training methods.
Early socialization and puppy training classes help build confidence and reduce anxiety.
Keep training sessions short and engaging to maintain interest.
Diet
Feed your Cavapoo high-quality food appropriate to their size, age, and activity level.
Watch portion sizes to prevent obesity—a common issue in small breeds.
Consult your vet about specialized diets if your Cavapoo shows signs of food allergies.
Exercise
Daily walks and interactive play sessions are essential for physical and mental stimulation.
They enjoy games like fetch, puzzle toys, and short runs in the yard.
Avoid overexertion in hot weather due to their small size and sensitivity.
Environment
Cavapoos are versatile and adapt well to apartments or homes with yards, provided they receive enough attention and stimulation.
They prefer being near their family members and may develop separation anxiety if left alone too long.
Living Conditions
Space Requirements
Minimal; suitable for apartments and small homes
Climate Adaptability
Moderate climate preferred; protect from temperature extremes
Apartment Living
Excellent apartment companions
Best Suited For
Best suited for families, seniors, and individuals looking for a companion dog
Training Tips
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Cavapoos good with kids?
Yes, Cavapoos are gentle and playful, making them great companions for children.
Do Cavapoos shed?
They are low-shedding but require regular grooming to prevent mats.
Are Cavapoos hypoallergenic?
They are considered hypoallergenic due to their Poodle heritage, but no dog is 100% allergen-free.
How much exercise does a Cavapoo need?
Cavapoos need 30-60 minutes of daily activity to stay healthy and happy.
Are Cavapoos easy to train?
Yes, they are intelligent and respond well to positive reinforcement training.
Specialized Care Guides
Puppy Care
Socialization, basic training, vet visits, and age-appropriate food
Senior Care
Joint health monitoring, dental care, gentler exercise
First-Time Owner Tips
Perfect for first-time owners due to their temperament and adaptability
Looking for a Cavapoo?
Connect with responsible breeders, rescue organizations, and pet adoption services in your area.