There are two distinct breeds of Cavapoo, which are the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and the Poodle dog. These pups have the best of both worlds in terms of personality qualities, being outgoing, playful, and inquisitive. Cavoodle and Cavadoodle are just two of the many names given to Cavapoos.
Because of their outgoing personalities and love of attention, these pups are ideal for families with children. In a "pack" atmosphere, they thrive, although they may function in smaller groups as well. The Cavapoo may be the dog for you if you are looking for a loyal, playful dog who enjoys romping around with you or snuggling on the couch. Find out all you ever wanted to know about Cavapoos in the infographic below!
Highlights
- Cavapoos are mixed-breed dogs. Unlike their Cavalier King Charles Spaniel or Poodle parents, they are not purebreds.
- They come in many different shades of milk, fawn or chocolate as well as gold or chestnut. Often, they are chestnut and white, or even tri-colored, although they can also be solid colours.
- It is common for Cavapoos to have very short, silky, wavy, or curly hair. They need to be brushed once a week, but they shed less frequently, therefore some allergy patients prefer them.
- The Cavapoo is a family dog who enjoys romping around with children and getting to know everyone in the household. In spite of this, they are vulnerable to children that engage in rough play. When children are playing with dogs, they should always be monitored and taught how to do so in a safe manner.
Characteristics
Social Appearance
Adaptability
It's a common misconception that a little dog is better suited to living in a limited space. Many tiny dogs have too much energy and are too yappy to live in an apartment building. An apartment dog's best attributes include being quiet, low energy, somewhat peaceful indoors, and respectful to the other inhabitants. Your dog's personal space in your apartment can be improved by purchasing one of these fantastic dog cages.
Sensitivity Level
Depending on the dog, a strong rebuke can be taken in stride by some, while others regard even the tiniest hint of disapproval as a personal attack. If you have a loud or pushy owner, a chaotic home, or a routine that is unpredictable or variable, your low-sensitivity dog, often known as "easy-going," "tolerant," "resilient," or even "thick-skinned," will be able to handle it better. Do you have young children, host a lot of parties, or have a hectic lifestyle? Choose a dog that isn't overly sensitive.
Intensity
You can't tell from looking at them whether or not they're hyperactive, but when they do anything, they do it vigorously. They tug at their leashes (unless you teach them not to), they push their way through barriers, and they down their meals in huge, gobbling gulps. A home with young children or an elderly or feeble person may not be the best place for these dynamos to learn proper etiquette. On the other side, a dog with poor vitality adopts a more reserved demeanor.
Potential for Playfulness
The playful nature of certain dogs never fades away, and they're always ready for a game, whereas the reserved and serious tendencies of other dogs develop through time. Think about how many times a day you want to play fetch or tag with your dog, and whether or not you have children or other dogs who can act as substitutes.
Personality Appearance
Intelligence
In the same way as working dogs, such as those that herd sheep, are bred for intelligence and decision-making, working dogs like those who run all day need to exercise their bodies. The two most common activities that a bored pet engages in are digging and chewing, both of which require mental stimulation. There are several ways to keep a dog's brain active, including obedience training, interactive dog toys like tug of war, and dog sports like agility and search and rescue.
Energy Level
Energy-draining dogs are always on the lookout for a new activity. There are several jobs that require a lot of stamina from dogs, such as herding livestock or recovering prey for hunters. Children are more likely to engage in activities such as jumping, playing and exploring new sights and smells as a result of this change in their environment
A low-energy dog is more like a couch potato than a dog that needs a lot of exercise. Think about your level of physical activity and whether or not you find a hyperactive dog irritating before making your final choice.
Easy To Train
Easy to train dogs can more easily form associations between a cue (like "sit"), an action (like sitting), and a reward than dogs that are more difficult to train. Dogs that require more time, patience, and repetition are more difficult to train.
Getting your dog interested in training will require incentives and games because many breeds are intelligent but have a "What's in it for me?" mentality when it comes to learning new things.
Family Affection Level
Affectionate With Family
Since puppyhood, some breeds remain aloof and independent; others form deep bonds with one individual but are uninterested in the rest of the family; still other types shower their entire family with affection. Canines raised in homes with people tend to be more open to human interaction and develop stronger ties, regardless of their breed or upbringing.
Kid-Friendly
Kids-friendly dogs are calm, strong enough to bear the hefty hugs and pets kids can dish out, and have an unfazed attitude about rushing, scream-inducing children. There are several names you may not expect to see on the list: Fierce-looking Both Boxers and American Staffordshire Terriers are regarded as family dogs (which are considered Pit Bulls). Chihuahuas, which are small, sensitive, and potentially sharp, are not always family-friendly.
Dog Friendly
Dog friendship and human friendship are two entirely different things. The fact that a dog is friendly with humans doesn't mean it's immune to aggression or aggression from other dogs; some canines choose to play rather than fight; others will just run away. The type of animal isn't the only consideration. Dogs who have spent a lot of time playing with their littermates and their mother at the age of six to eight weeks are more likely to be socially competent.
Physical Appearance
Amount of Shedding
Having a dog in the house means that you'll have to deal with some level of dog hair on your clothing and in the home. It's worth noting, however, that shedding varies widely among breeds. Some dogs shed all year long, while others ``blow" just during specific times of the year, and still others don't shed at all. If you're a stickler for cleanliness, you'll need to choose a breed that sheds less or lower your expectations. You can use a deshedding tool to keep your house a little cleaner.
Drooling Potential
While greeting you, some dogs may cover their arms with ropes of drool and create large, wet patches on your clothing. If you don't mind a little drool, go for it; but if you're a stickler for cleanliness, you may want to look for a dog with a low drool rating.
Easy To Groom
Some breeds of dogs can simply be brushed and left alone, while others require frequent washing, trimming, and other grooming in order to maintain their health and appearance. If you don't have the time or money to take care of a dog that requires a lot of grooming, you may want to look into hiring a professional.
Exercise Needs
Evening walks around the neighbourhood are perfectly acceptable for some breeds. Others, particularly those trained for physically demanding vocations like herding or hunting, require regular, rigorous exercise.
They can gain weight and release their pent-up energy in ways you don't like, including barking, chewing, and digging, if not given enough exercise. Those looking to train their dog for an energetic canine activity, such as agility, should consider getting a dog that needs a lot of exercise.
Average sizes and life expectancy of the breed
Weight
9 to 25 pounds
Lifespan
12 to 15 years
Height
9 to 14 inches
History
Unintentional crossbreeding of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel with the Poodle has occurred over the years, but deliberate breeding began in Australia in the late 1990s. The calming attitude of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and the intelligence of the Poodle were the key reasons for combining the two. Although no dog's fur is completely hypoallergenic, the Poodle's was once thought to be a better choice for allergy sufferers because of its thicker coat. Like purebred dogs, you'll discover Cavapoos ready to be adopted from shelters or rescue groups, just like any other breed of dog.
Personality & Temperament
Because of its excellent disposition, the Cavapoo is a wonderful family companion. It's not uncommon for Cavapoos to get along with youngsters and other animals. Having a low prey drive, these canines are perfect for sharing a home with other pets. For first-time dog owners, Cavapoos are an excellent option because they are versatile and easy to train.
They may develop separation anxiety when left alone because of their fondness for people, which should be addressed early in puppyhood to avoid such occurrences. A healthy, well-rounded dog can be raised through positive reinforcement and kind treatment. Though they have a short attention span, Cavapoos can be trained if consistency is maintained. Training a dog to use the bathroom may be more challenging than training a dog to use the bathroom with other dogs. You must be patient because they will eventually catch on.
The Cavapoo is a great therapy dog because of its loyalty, social nature, and kindness. Cavapoos are also excellent watchdogs, alerting their owner to any incoming guests. Cavapoos don't bark a lot other than while they're working.
Care
Care for your dog with the temperament and health issues of a Cavapoo in mind. If you want to keep your dog happy and healthy, you should also consider their dietary requirements, activity requirements, grooming requirements, and training requirements.
Health
13 to 15 years is the average lifespan of a Cavapoo. They are less likely than their purebred parents to suffer from health issues as a result of their mixed heritage. "Hybrid vigour" is the consequence of combining the genetic contributions of both parents, and it improves the overall operation of all biological systems. Although Cavapoos may be more susceptible to some health problems, such as:
Progressive Retinal Atrophy
In dogs, a condition known as progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) or progressive rod and cone degeneration (PRCD) can cause blindness. A genetic, inherited illness, the causes of which have not yet been determined, has been identified.
Night blindness, a reluctance to descend stairs or explore new areas, or even just going outside in the dim light are some of the most typical symptoms. Both eyes are affected by PRA, which has no known cure. There is presently no treatment for PRA, however the surroundings of a dog with the disease can be improved in some ways (such as changing the furniture).
Luxating Patella
Small dog breeds and crossbreeds are prone to luxating patella, or slipping kneecaps. It is caused by a sideways displacement of the kneecap as a result of a deformity or damage to the kneecap.
When a dog's patella luxates, it causes pain and lameness, and the injured leg is held up high by the dog. Surgery may be an option, but for the most part, this illness is treated symptomatically using anti-inflammatory medications to alleviate the irritation it causes.3
Congenital Heart Problems
It is possible for Cavapoos to have mitral valve disease, a congenital cardiac condition. The left ventricle of the heart generates a lot of pressure when delivering blood to the rest of the body. This contraction may cause the valve to wear down, causing it to leak over time. A vet can listen for a murmur in order to determine if this leak is the source of the noise.
Recommended Health Test
- X-Rays
- Electrocardiogram
- Optical Exam
- Endocardiogram
- Full Physical Examination
- Complete Ophthalmologic Examination
Nutrition
Cavapoos thrive on tiny to medium-sized, high-energy dog foods that are rich in nutrients. Even while the breed's weight range doesn't appear to be particularly wide, it can actually vary greatly. In comparison to a 20-pound Cavapoo, a 9-pound Cavapoo consumes a lot less dog food each day because of its smaller size.
Your Cavapoo may need anywhere from half a cup to one cup of food every day, depending on their size and activity level. Despite its high level of activity, this breed is nonetheless prone to obesity. To keep your dog at a healthy weight, talk to your vet about a diet.
Grooming
It is necessary to regularly groom the Cavapoos soft, medium-length fur, which can be both wavy and curly. They have a low shedding reputation, which makes them an excellent choice for people with allergies to pet hair. The fact that they don't shed doesn't excuse them from the necessity of regular brushing. If you don't brush your cavapoo at least once or twice a week, the waves in its hair may begin to mat. In addition to being irritating and sometimes even painful, mats can cause the skin beneath them to get infected. To avoid mating, some dog owners choose to get their dog's hair cut short into a 'puppy cut.'
To avoid snagging or breaking, make sure your cavapoo's nails are regularly clipped in addition to grooming. It's also vital to clean or clip the fur inside the ears in order to prevent infection.
Cavapoos are prone to dental issues because they are a smaller breed. A dog-friendly toothpaste will help keep your cavapoo's teeth clean and healthy if used on a regular basis or as often as you can manage. Having a bad mouth is more than just a cosmetic concern. Bacteria can enter the bloodstream through the gingival tissue because it is vascular. Endocarditis, a cardiac disorder that can cause painful tooth abscesses, can also be caused by this (inflammation of the heart muscle). For breeds prone to dental issues, it's crucial to practise good oral hygiene.
Exercise
Despite the Cavapoos high level of activity, this breed just requires daily walks for its exercise needs to be considered moderate. This, paired with their diminutive stature, makes them well-suited to a city lifestyle. When playing with a Cavapoo, make sure your youngsters have adult supervision as they have plenty of energy to keep up. If you have a young child who likes to roughhouse, keep in mind that these dogs are more likely to bite if they become too excited.
Training
Cavapoos are clever, well-mannered dogs who are anxious to please their owners and are excellent pets for families. Positive reinforcement training, which can begin as early as 12 weeks of age, is an excellent method for teaching basic obedience to this breed. It can be helpful to reward good behaviour by rewarding it with a reward, such as a reward or praise.
Due to the fact that Cavapoos are so attached to their owners, they are also susceptible to separation anxiety. Avoid trainers that employ "aversives" or "corrections" on anxious pets if you have to leave the house regularly. These approaches may cause extra stress to an already stressed pet. Hire a dog trainer that has a good reputation among other dog owners.
Children and Other Pets
Overexcited youngsters, especially younger ones, can easily injure the Cavapoo due to its diminutive size. Any children in the family should be aware of how to securely interact with your Cavapoo. Despite this, the Cavapoo is a friendly dog who enjoys playing with children.
Introducing new pets to Cavapoos should be done slowly and calmly in order to ensure a harmonious relationship between the two species. Cavapoos are generally amiable canines and may get along with other dogs and even cats when properly socialised. Cavapoos need to be the only pet in the house if you want them to be happy, although they do enjoy getting lots of attention.
It all comes down to training, socialisation, and a little bit of good fortune when it comes to Cavapoos and other dogs and cats.
Puppies
Cavapoo puppies will need a lot of attention and training. A new "baby" in the house will take a lot of your time and attention for the first few weeks and months. You should be ready for that! From the time your Cavapoo puppy is a puppy, begin socialising and training him. Potty training and house training will take more effort, but they should pick up training quickly. When teaching your dog how to go to the potty, be patient and persistent with them.
Dogs similar to Cavapoo
The Cavapoo has a lot in common with the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Havapoo, and Maltipoo.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels share some characteristics with Cavapoos, being one of the parents of a Cavapoo. The average weight of a Cavapoo and a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is about 18 pounds, while the average height of a Cavapoo is about 14 pounds. Both dog breeds are friendly and affectionate. Cavapoos are better watchdogs than Cavalier King Charles Spaniels because they are cleverer.
Havapoo
Poodles makeup half of both Havapoos and Cavapoo breeds. Dogs and cats of both species tend to be petite in stature. Compared to Cavapoos, Havapoos are more active and healthier in overall.
Maltipoo
Poodles make up the other half of the family tree of the Maltipoo, which is related to the Cavapoo in appearance. It is not difficult to train either of these canines. Maltipoos are more outgoing and playful than Cavapoos.