General Information:

Height: 10-13 in
Weight: 10-20 lbs
Life Span: 12-15 yrs
Coloring: Single, bi- and tri-colored; gold, black, white, tan, red, apricot
Area of Origin: United States
Similar Breeds: Cavachon, BichonPoo, CavaMalt, CavaMo, CavaTzu, TerriPoo, ShiPoo, LhasaPoo; any mix breed with either Cavalier King Charles Spaniel or Toy/Miniature Poodle

History and Origin:

A mix between a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a Toy or Miniature Poodle, the Cavapoo (also known as the Cavoodle) is thought to have been bred as early as the 1950s, shortly after the Cavalier first appeared in the United States. A “designer dog” bred for its teddy bear appearance and cuddly nature, the Cavapoo is now a popular choice for people who want a friendly, personable companion.  The Cavapoo can be born with a variety of different coat colors: white, black, brown, or multi-colored.  Because they are a cross-breed, Cavapoos are susceptible to many of the same helth conditions that their parents can suffer from.  Cataracts, syringomyelia, and mitral valve disease are a few of the major health conditions to be aware of.

Personality and Temperament:

Typically possessing the laid-back, joyful personality of the Cavalier and the keen intelligence of the Poodle, the Cavapoo is a delightful, highly adaptable dog that loves to play and be close to its family. A true lap dog, the Cavapoo is happy to curl up beside its owner all afternoon, and will happily sit for a cookie. Due to its positive, accepting nature, the Cavapoo is suitable for a nervous or new owner.

Exercise & Training:

The Cavapoo does not require extensive exercise; a daily walk and some play time with friends will keep it happy and healthy. While highly trainable, it does not possess the innate desire to please like many working breeds, and short, engaging training sessions is idea to keep its attention. Active, positive reinforcements will solidify the Cavapoo’’s good manners; treats, attention, and playtime will help the Cavapoo be a joy to own.

Grooming:

The Cavapoo typically inherits the soft, curly coat of the Poodle, but will occasionally have the silkier, longer fur of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. Depending on what type of coat it has, the Cavapoo may need regular (as the Poodle needs), or very rare professional grooming (as the Cavalier requires). Regular brushing keeps the coat free of matting; shedding very little, the Cavapoo is an ideal choice for allergy-sufferers.

Similar Breeds:

As a Poodle mix, the Cavapoo has many qualities that other “Poo” breeds possess, such as a keen intelligence, friendly nature, and soft, curly coat. Similarly, the Cavapoo will frequently show its Cavalier King Charles Spaniel heritage through its innate desire to always be near – or touching – its owner.

Interesting Facts about the Cavapoo:

1. Also known as a “Cavoodle and Cavadoodle,” the name “Cavapoo” is recognized in various hybrid breed organizations such as the American Canine Hybrid Club, Designer Dog Kennel Club, International Designer Dogs Kennel Club, and the Designer Breed Registry.

2.Cavapoos are frequently used as therapy dogs due to their outgoing nature to family and stranger alike.

3.  The Cavapoo has gained popularity in part due to is curly soft coat and rounded facial features, which many say make it look like a Teddy Bear.

Additional Information on the Cavapoo:

Vet Street – Cavapoo Information
Dogs Discovered – Information on the Cavapoo (aka Cavadoodle or Cavoodle)

Breeds Similar to Cavapoo Dogs: