Cavapoo
Also known as Cavoodle · Cavadoodle
United States, Doodles and designer crosses
- Size
- Small
- Height
- 23–36 cm
- Weight
- 5–11 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–15 yrs
- Gentle
- Affectionate
- Adaptable
- Sweet-natured
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the Cavapoo
The Cavapoo, known as the Cavoodle in Australia, crosses a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel with a Toy or Miniature Poodle. It is a small, soft-eyed companion dog bred mainly for family life. Coat type and adult size depend on the parents and the generation, so expect some variety.
Temperament
Gentle, affectionate and keen to be close to people, Cavapoos often get on well with children, visitors and other pets. That devotion can tip into separation anxiety, so practise short absences from puppyhood.
Exercise
A couple of half-hour walks plus play is usually plenty. They enjoy sniffing and gentle games and can adapt to flat living if their exercise needs are met.
Grooming
Brush every couple of days and plan for a professional trim every six to eight weeks. Tear staining around the eyes is common. Shedding is often light, but this is not guaranteed and allergy sufferers should spend time with the dog first.
Care & wellbeing
The Cavalier side brings a high risk of heart valve disease and a painful condition called syringomyelia, so it is important to ask whether the Cavalier parent has been heart-tested and screened. Regular vet checks can pick up heart murmurs early. See a vet if your dog scratches at the air near its neck, yelps when touched, coughs or tires easily.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 8 kg adult- Water
- 320 ml–480 ml
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 530 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 60–90 min
- a day
- Grooming
- Brushing most days
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Cavapoo
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
Cavalier and Poodle crosses appeared in the United States and Australia in the 1990s as part of the wider demand for small, low-shedding companions. The breed spread rapidly through the 2000s, and in Australia the Cavoodle became one of the most popular dogs of all. Breeding practices vary widely, from careful health-tested programmes to high-volume puppy farming.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Mitral valve disease
- Syringomyelia
- Patellar luxation
- Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
- Ear infections
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Heart examination of the Cavalier parent
- MRI screening for syringomyelia in the Cavalier parent
- Eye examination
- Patella check
Not every Cavapoo is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
Lower than average- Smaller food bills and medicine doses
- Regular professional grooming adds up
- A 12–15 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Cavapoo right for you?
Could suit
- Owners who can manage a good walk or two each day
- First-time owners prepared to train consistently
- Smaller homes, as long as daily exercise needs are met
Think twice if
- You don't have time for frequent brushing or the cost of professional grooming
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a Cavapoo get?
Adult Cavapoos typically stand about 23–36 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 5–11 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Cavapoos live?
Typically 12–15 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Cavapoo need?
As a guide, around 60–90 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Cavapoo need?
Brushing most days. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Cavapoos easy to train?
Usually quick to learn with reward-based training.
Do Cavapoos shed?
A little. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Cavapoos good with children?
They usually do well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Cavapoo live in a flat?
Usually, yes — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Cavapoos have?
The breed can be prone to mitral valve disease, syringomyelia, patellar luxation. Not every Cavapoo is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- United States
- Type
- Doodles and designer crosses
- Recognition
- A crossbreed, not recognised by kennel clubs