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Cavapoo Dog Breed Information: King Charles Cavalier Poodle Mix Facts, Puppy Prices & More

Do you think Cavapoo is the perfect dog breed for your family? These curious canines are notoriously adorable and make great family pets! Read on to learn all about the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Poodle mix, as we cover breed traits, facts, puppy costs, and more!

Emma Braby Picture

Last Updated: October 27, 2023 | 12 min read

Cavapoo Breed Information

The Cavapoo is a relatively new designer dog whose parents are both purebred dogs. This mix is a sweet soul who craves human attention and affection all day long, but he also has a bit of a wild side that he has inherited from his Poodle parent.

Cavapoos have been making a name for themselves over the last decade as extremely popular mixed-breed dogs. This is one of the more popular Poodle mixes out there that gets lots of love due to their sweet personality and attachment to their family.

These two different sides to his personality make him a wonderful family pet who appeals to every doggy lover out there, and it is just one of the reasons why he is proving to be a big hit with families across the world. Read on to find out a bit more about this gorgeous teddy bear doppelganger.

Breed Overview
    • weight iconWeight9-25 pounds
    • height iconHeight9-14 inches
    • lifespan iconLifespan10-13 years
    • color iconColorsChocolate, Chestnut, Gold, Brown, Cream
  • Child Friendliness
  • Canine Friendliness
  • Training Difficulty
  • Grooming Upkeep
  • Breed Health
  • Exercise Needs
  • Puppy Costs

Parent Breeds

The term ‘designer dog’ is simply a label given to dogs who have been purposely bred from two purebred dogs. Often, they are bred to combine their looks, and to increase genetic diversity. This often makes them healthier and sturdier dogs.

In this case, the Cavapoo is a gorgeous dog who benefits from the combination of genetics from a Poodle, and the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel as parents. So far, there have not been any reported problems with the new designer breed. In order to understand a bit more about this mix and what to expect from ownership, it’s important to gain a brief understanding of their parents.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Indoors
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a loyal and family-friendly dog breed.

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a relatively ancient dog that originates from Victorian England. He originally began his journey as a toy Spaniel, but he was crossed with two flat-faced oriental dogs, the Pug, and the Japanese Chin.

King Charles II was an avid fan of the new mixes, and as such he was named the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. His company was once only enjoyed by Royalty, but he is now enjoyed by all dog lovers across the world.

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is also famously known from the drama series ‘Sex and the City’ as Charlotte’s glamourous handbag dog. In 2019, the American Kennel Club (AKC) ranked the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel as the 18th most popular dog in America. He is described as ‘affectionate, gentle and graceful’, and it is the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel that gives the Cavapoo his sweeter and softer side.

Poodle (Toy or Miniature)

Poodle Puppy waiting for treat
Poodles are one of the most popular designer dog parent breeds.

The Poodle is available in three different sizes, the standard Poodle which measures 15 inches and taller, the toy Poodle which measures 10 inches and under, and the miniature Poodle which measures between 10 and 15 inches. The Cavapoo is bred only from the toy or miniature Poodle.

Despite being known for his flamboyant personality and French fancy haircuts, the Poodle was originally from mainland Europe and was used as a working dog to hunt ducks and assist his master. This breed is much more energetic than most people think.

In 2019, the AKC ranked the Poodle (all three sizes) as the 7th most popular dog breed in America. The Poodle is described as ‘active, proud, and very smart’, and this is where the Cavapoo gets his cheeky wild side from. There are also other pups that are mixed with the toy poodle, like the Golden Retriever Toy Poodle mix (Mini Goldendoodle).

Cavapoo

Cavapoo mixed breed outdoors
The Cavapoo is a famously friendly mixed breed pup that’s perfect for families.

Unfortunately, the history of this designer dog is not particularly well documented. This is not dissimilar to most other designer dogs. It is believed that they were created in the 1990s, and he is believed to originate from Australia. This is really all we know about their past.

This mix is actually one of the more popular “Doodle dogs” and is often compared to another breed that’s similar, the Cavachon. Oftentimes, owners are seeking a smaller dog that’s a bit more shedding-friendly, as are most Poodle hybrids.

However, what is clear at present is that he is proving to be one of the most sought-after designer dogs, and families across the world are choosing him as their family pet. Katy Perry has a cute Cavapoo pup called Butters, who is said to be super cheeky but super-chilled at the same time.

Temperament

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Poodle Mix Outdoors
Most Cavapoos are easy-going, kind, and gentle. They also get along well with everyone.

As explained above, the Cavapoo has many different personality traits that appeal to everyone. For this reason, they have earned a top spot as family pets in the designer dog world. He is very kind and gentle with his family members, especially young children who he can snuggle up to. They are always so excited to see their human family members. They also love nothing more than to sit on your lap in the evening and keep you company while you read a book or play family games.

He also loves to go for daily walks and enjoys a good romp in the backyard. He is quite a cheeky boy who will test your rules and patience, but only in a fun way. Overall, there is something for every potential dog owner when it comes to this pup and his awesome personality.

His extreme sociability means that he does not do well being left alone for hours and hours, and because of this, he is known to suffer from separation anxiety. While he may appear cute and not capable of much destruction, the reality is quite the opposite. He is capable of chewing his way through sofas and cushions.

Cavapoos are also capable of annoying even the most patient of neighbors with their shrill and constant whining. For this reason, if you live somewhere where there are noise restrictions, you may want to consider another breed.

Size & Appearance

Cavapoo puppy sitting in grass
Cavapoos can vary in size, from small to medium.

Cavapoos are one of the cutest dog breeds around. They can be either small to medium-sized dogs, depending on the size of their Poodle parent. Typically, both males and females will measure between 9 and 14 inches, from paw to shoulder. They can also vary in weight, again depending on their Poodle parent, but typically they will weigh between 9 and 25 pounds.

Cavapoos are famous for their soft and cuddly good looks. They can be mistaken for small stuffed animals, which is why teaching children proper dog handling etiquette is important. They will generally not grow any larger than their biggest parent.

Coat & Colors

Light colored Cavapoo outdoors
This mix can be lighter in color, to a dark or deep red.

The Cavapoos coat is often soft thanks to his Cavalier King Charles Spaniel parent. They will have either a slight wave or curl that he inherited from his Poodle parent. While he is less prone to shedding, their coat needs regular grooming which will be outlined below.

They come in a wide range of colors. The most popular coat colors are chocolate, chestnut, gold, brown, fawn, and cream. They can be a solid color, two colors, or even have tricolor coats. A puppy’s coat color may change as they get older. They tend to only change shades rather than entire colors, so bear this in mind when you are looking for a puppy.

Because his Poodle parent is a hypoallergenic dog, many breeders will claim that the Cavapoo is too. However, while this may be true, it is important to remember that it’s not a guarantee. If you are seeking an allergy-friendly dog, then you should consider getting a breed from the list of hypoallergenic dogs that are guaranteed to be allergy friendly.

Exercise & Living Conditions

Red colored cavapoo puppy
Cavapoos can do well in an apartment with sufficient daily exercise.

The Cavapoo’s exercise requirements will vary depending on which parent he takes after more. While it is possible that he may be calm and docile, most Cavapoo parents claim that they are super energetic for such a small pup. The majority of the mix is medium-energy dogs who will need around 30 to 60 minutes of exercise a day. They need mental stimulation throughout the day. Rope toys for tug-of-war or frisbees for fetch will do well. Toys that you can stuff with treats also do well.

This mix is a very adaptable dog. They can be could be suited to either apartment or house living. They also do just fine with or without a backyard. If your pup doesn’t have access to a backyard then it is very important to exercise your dog for around 60 minutes a day. Otherwise, your pup will not get the opportunity to have a good romp in the garden as he would otherwise.

They are friendly and affectionate with children of all ages. However, no dog should be left alone with a child unattended. Always supervise. Because of their small size, it is important to teach children how to handle them. They can quite easily be mishandled by excitable children.

If properly socialized from a young age, then they are fantastic with other dogs. They can do well in a multi-pet household. They are known to be a bit of a green-eyed monster, so if he is one of many pets be sure to give him his fair share of the attention and cuddles. Otherwise, you may find yourself with a diva dog on your hands.

Training

Poodle Cavalier King Charles Spaniel mix in training
When it comes to training, Cavapoos are quick to learn.

This mix, despite his cute and angelic looks, is quite intelligent and he picks up commands surprisingly quickly. He is partial to a snack or two so be sure to incorporate this into training sessions with him, as well as continuously verbally training him when he behaves well. This method is called positive reinforcement training and is scientifically proven to be the most effective training method for all dogs.

Most Cavapoos are naturally inquisitive, and he is known to become quite bored during training sessions. The best way to tackle his short attention span is to keep training sessions short and fun, and again, you will keep his interest piqued with treats in hand.

Health

Cavapoo dog face up close
Most Cavapoos are generally very healthy pups when compared to their parent breeds.

While mixed breeds are thought to live longer than purebred dogs, these little fluffballs are prone to some health issues. This mix inherits health issues from their parent breeds, and the best way to prepare yourself regarding their health is to make yourself aware of all the parent’s main health issues. Generally, they are known to suffer from the following:

Patellar Luxation – put simply, this is where his kneecap becomes dislocated, and almost floats, and it can be quite painful, particularly when walking.

Cardiac conditions – the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is known to suffer from a variety of cardiac issues, and as such, there is a potential risk for these conditions. The most common concern is Mitral Valve Disease, which is often first identified by a heart murmur.

Eye conditions – the most common eye concerns are Progressive Retinal Atrophy and Entropion, which if left untreated can cause blindness.

If you are in any doubts about his health, then be sure to speak to your veterinarian and keep up with his annual health checks. This is particularly important in regard to his heart defects. These are often concerns that can only be detected with medical equipment rather than the naked eye. Owners can also consider pet health insurance with this designer pup. Insurance can help with regular care as well as emergency treatment, depending on your coverage.

Nutrition

Cavapoo outside in the snow
Cavapoos are somewhat active dogs and will need high-quality kibble.

The average Cavapoo will eat around 1 cup of food a day. They do well with high-quality kibble as well as fresh, or freeze-dried food to provide the best nutrients possible. Be sure to only feed them age-appropriate dog food. You also want to ensure that your pup is only eating food that’s meant for their size.

You’ll want to monitor the number of treats that he is given. Cavapoos are susceptible to piling on the weight quite quickly just like his King Charles parent. If this happens, you’ll likely need to look at lower-calorie dog food to help reduce his weight.

Grooming

Red Cavapoo dog outside in grass
If you welcome a Cavapoo into your home, expect to groom them regularly.

Cavapoos are slightly more demanding when it comes to his grooming needs, simply because of his Poodle parent. Because they are a mixed breed, you can never be entirely sure which type of coat they will inherit. It is very likely that your pup will have a curly coat of some description. Their curls will need daily brushing with a metal pin brush to ensure that they do not become tangled and matted. This is especially true around their necks and armpits. This breed is considered low shedding. They benefit from a thorough brush once a week to collect their dead hair and stimulate new growth.

While there is no specific hairstyle to follow, most owners opt for the teddy bear cut. This cut is short all around except for their ears. This helps keep their coats manageable. A professional clip every 10 weeks should be adequate to keep this guy looking fresh and trimmed.

Cavapoos will need regular dental cleaning. They have small and narrow jaws which makes them more prone to plaque buildup and periodontal infections. Also, be mindful of his eyes due to his propensity for ill eye health. Wipe the unsightly gunk out of his eyes with specialist doggy wipes that can be bought from pet stores.

Puppies

Puppy outdoors in garden
Expect to pay $1500 and up for a Cavapoo puppy from a reputable breeder.

The average price of a puppy from a reputable breeder is usually $1,500 or more. Some breeders may charge slightly more, but the general rule is if they are cheaper than $1,200 and more expensive then you should be cautious.

The number of Cavapoo breeders has risen significantly over the last decade because of his surge in popularity and demand. The increase in breeder options benefits prospective owners who now have more of a choice. But it also means that unscrupulous puppy mill breeders also have the opportunity to make a quick buck from this current trend. If anyone is selling a puppy for much less than the average price then do your research. It’s a real possibility that the puppy will be very unhealthy and you will lose out on a lot of money and time in the long run.

It is really important to meet the parents of the Cavapoo for a variety of reasons. When it comes to size, it’s particularly important to see his Poodle parent in order to gain an understanding of how big they get. During the puppy stage, it’s quite difficult to tell whether your pup will be a small or medium-sized dog. If this is an important factor for you ask to see the Poodle parent’s registration certificates.

As Family Pets

  • Cavapoos are a sweet mix, that craves human attention.
  • He should be placed with a family who will not leave him alone for too long.
  • If he’s left alone for long periods, he can become severely anxious.
  • He is sociable and fun and should have plenty of interactive playtimes.
  • Generally, most Cavapoos are medium-energy dogs.
  • They will need between 30 and 60 minutes of daily exercise.
  • He is a small to medium-sized dog who can adapt to apartment living if required.
  • They will prefer access to a backyard for regular playtime.
  • He is a low-shedder, with lower grooming requirements.
  • This breed is not entirely hypoallergenic, so they are not suitable for owners with allergies.
  • They will need daily brushing to ensure that their curls do not become matted.
  • He is quite easily trainable and is suited to a first-time dog owner.
  • They do well with younger children as long as they are taught how to handle them.
  • This breed is more delicate than most people think.
  • They will do well in a multi-pet household if introduced to them slowly.

Finding a Breeder

Puppy at Breeders Home
Ensure you properly investigate any breeder you plan to purchase from.

Cavapoos are quite popular. There are plenty of breeders that appear on the first few pages of any search engine. This is most often where people begin their searches for a breeder. Be sure to thoroughly research the kennel or the breeder before you commit to any decisions. It’s extremely important to visit both puppies and parents before you take your pup home.

There are also plenty of Cavapoo groups on social media platforms that are full of avid fans. This is a great way to ask for suggestions for breeders from those in the know, about who is reputable and who is not.

Rescue & Shelters

Cavapoo at Rescue Shelter
Checking local rescue shelters can be a great way to find a puppy and save a life.

As with any new designer breed and their popular demand, there will be few and far between in the rescue centers. For those pups who do unfortunately find themselves in the rescue centers, they will be snapped up quickly. The best way to increase your chances is to speak to your local rescue center to see if they can point you in the right direction.

Additionally, you could speak to dedicated rescue centers that solely rehome Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and Poodles, and other mixes of their breed. A great place to start would be to contact the Poodle Club of America Rescue Foundation or the American Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Rescue Trust.

Final Thoughts

This cute little teddy bear lookalike is proving to be a big hit. Not only are they popular in America, but across the world. Not only are they one of the most popular designer breeds out there, but they are possibly one of the cutest with the ultimate canine personality.

Cavapoos have plenty of love and hugs for the whole family. They also have enough cheekiness to provide hours of laughter and fun. This dog has something for everyone, which is why he is so popular. One of the biggest selling points about the mix is that he is suggested to be hypoallergenic. While they might be partially hypoallergenic, there’s no guarantee. Don’t be fooled by breeders who guarantee this as a selling point.

As long as you have the time to commit to your Cavapoo, they can be the perfect Companion. While you’ll need to spend time exercising and cuddling your pup, they will fit into most family homes without any issue. When you adopt a Cavapoo, you are getting a companion that will love your family for the next 10-plus years.

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10 Comments

  1. Mrs June Rayment

    Am I too old to adopt a cavapoo – ( 67 years young!!) We lost our border terrior New Year’s Eve – miss him so much.

  2. I have a Cavapoo and she is the best dog I have ever had. They are exceptionally attached to their main caregiver so don’t get one if you don’t like being followed! The note about their teeth is so true — brush your dog’s teeth with vet paste. It is very expensive to have a dogs teeth cleaned. Cost a fortune to have my Pomeranian’s teeth cleaned (God rest his happy self).

    1. You seem to know a lot about the dog breed. Would you email me about what to feed him? He is about an 1 and a half.

  3. Very informative and specific. Great writing style for anyone interested in finding out info on this dog breed. Thank you.

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