What is a Cavapoo?
Hybrid dogs, such as Cavapoos, are cross-breeds of two different dog breeds. They are sometimes called designer dogs to distinguish them from mixed-breed dogs of unknown heritage. Adopting a hybrid dog is like opening a beautifully wrapped present on your birthday: you never know what you're going to get.
It is often assumed that a hybrid dog will inherit the best qualities of both of its parent breeds, but genetics don't work that way. Breeders cannot always control how genes combine and express themselves, especially when two different breeds are crossed. This is something to keep in mind before you spend a lot of money on a hybrid dog that you have been assured will have certain traits. Here are the Cavapoo facts you should know if you’re considering adopting a Cavapoo.
Cavapoo Personality Traits and Behavior
It would be difficult for a Cavapoo not to be charming. Both of his parent breeds are outgoing, loving and playful. Cavapoos generally weigh 12 to 20 pounds, making them a comfortable size for most homes. They are not necessarily the best watchdogs, but they will greet visitors and intruders alike with a smile. Their sweet nature, intelligence, and loving disposition are some of the best Cavapoo dog personality traits.
What is a Cavapoo Like with Children?
Cavapoos are known for being gentle, loving, and playful dogs, making them great companions for kids of all ages. Here are some of the things that make Cavapoos such great dogs for kids:
They are gentle and patient. Cavapoos are not known for being aggressive, and they are often very patient with kids, even when they are being a little rough.
They are playful and energetic. Cavapoos love to play fetch, go for walks, and run around in the park. This makes them great companions for active kids.
They are adaptable. Cavapoos can live in a variety of environments, including apartments, houses, and farms. They are also relatively low-maintenance dogs, making them a good choice for families with busy schedules.
Cavapoos have the potential to be highly trainable, although some may prefer to sit on your lap rather than do a sit/stay.
Young children should always be supervised when playing with a small dog like a Cavapoo. Although Cavapoos are sturdy dogs, they can still be injured if a child accidentally falls on them or hits them.
Cavapoo Full Grown Activity Level and Adaptability
Cavapoo dogs have a moderate activity level that is adaptable to their owner's lifestyle. They need a good walk or active indoor playtime each day and are athletic enough to participate in such dog sports as agility, obedience, and rally. Cavapoos are good at playing fetch and will chase a ball endlessly. Both of the breeds used to create Cavapoos are smart and learn quickly. With early socialization and positive reinforcement training, Cavapoo dogs make wonderful companions.
Cavapoo Temperament and Hypoallergenic Qualities
Poodles and Cavapoos are often promoted as hypoallergenic, but allergies are caused by dander, not coat type. While Poodles and Cavapoos are low-dander breeds, no reputable breeder will guarantee that their dogs are hypoallergenic.
Cavapoo Characteristics
Cavapoos have curly or wavy coats that require regular grooming, including brushing, bathing, and ear cleaning. Their long ears are prone to infection, so check and clean them regularly. Cavapoos are also prone to tear stains, which can be prevented by washing the face daily. Cavapoos are companion dogs, bred to be loving and affectionate companions for humans, so they need to live in the house with their people.
Cavapoo Popularity as Therapy and Service Dogs
Cavapoos are popular therapy dogs because they're gentle, friendly, and bond closely with their owners. They're also smart and eager to please, making them good for service roles like emotional support animals, assistance dogs, and even working in rehab. With proper training and socialization, Cavapoos can excel in these roles and provide valuable companionship and support.
Variations of the Cavapoo
Some Cavapoos have the curly coat of a Poodle, while others have the long, straight coat of a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. But no matter what their coat type, Cavapoos always have a sweet expression and a sturdy body. They come in a rainbow of colors, from black and white to apricot and red, and even tricolor or Blenheim patterns.
Size Variations of Cavapoos and Hybrid Breeding
Cavapoos can vary in size depending on which parent breed they inherit more of their traits from, and what size of poodle is in their lineage. Toy Cavapoos are typically the smallest, weighing around 7-13 pounds. Miniature Cavapoos are slightly larger, weighing around 13-18 pounds. Standard Cavapoos are the largest, weighing around 20-25 pounds.
Even within a litter of Cavapoos, there can be a range in size. This is because each puppy inherits a different mix of genes from its parents.
In terms of hybrid breeding, Cavapoos can be classified as F1 or F2 hybrids. An F1 Cavapoo results from breeding a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel with a Poodle, while F2 Cavapoos are produced by breeding two Cavapoos together. F2 Cavapoos can have even more variations in size, coat type, and color.
Common Cavapoo Health Issues
All dogs, whether purebred or mixed breed, can inherit health problems from their parents. If a breeder tells you either that their Cavapoo puppies are 100% healthy or that they are isolated from the rest of the household for health reasons, run away! A good breeder will be honest about the health risks of Cavapoos and how often they occur in their lines.
Cavapoos can inherit health conditions common to both Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and Poodles, so it's important to buy from a reputable breeder who screens their dogs for genetic health problems. Some of the most common health concerns in Cavapoos include:
Luxating patellas: This is a condition in which the kneecap dislocates from its normal position. It can be a minor issue or serious enough to require surgery.
Hip dysplasia: This condition causes the hip joint to form improperly, leading to pain and lameness.
Mitral valve disease: This is a heart condition that can lead to heart failure.
Epilepsy: This is a neurological disorder that causes seizures.
Eye diseases: Cavapoos are prone to a number of eye diseases, including progressive retinal atrophy, entropion, cataracts, and glaucoma.
When choosing a Cavapoo breeder, ask to see evidence that both parents have been tested for these conditions and have received clearances from the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) for patellas and cardiac health, and from the Canine Eye Registry Foundation (CERF) for eye health. Do not buy a puppy from a breeder who cannot provide this documentation.
| Condition | Risk Profile | Cost to Diagnose and Treat |
|---|---|---|
| Entropion | Medium | $300-$1,500 |
| Patellar Luxation | Medium | $1,500-$3,000 |
| Mitral Valve Disease | Medium | $500-$2,000 |
| Cataracts | Medium | $1,500-$3,000 |
Cavapoo Information You Should Know Before Bringing Home Your Puppy
Finding a good breeder is the most important step in getting a healthy and happy Cavapoo. A good breeder will match you with the right puppy.
Consider adopting an adult Cavapoo from a shelter or rescue group. Many of the health problems in Cavapoos are not apparent in puppyhood, but by adopting an adult dog, you can be more confident that they are healthy. Adult Cavapoos can also make great companions, as they are typically already trained and socialized.
No matter whether you choose a puppy or an adult dog, take your Cavapoo to your veterinarian soon after adoption. Your veterinarian can perform a physical exam and recommend a preventive care plan to help keep your dog healthy.
Pet Insurance for Cavapoos
Cavapoos are wonderful companions, but they can also be expensive to treat for hereditary conditions. Pet insurance can help you cover the cost of these unexpected expenses, so you can focus on providing your Cavapoo with the best possible care.
Embrace dog insurance plans offer full coverage for all breed-specific conditions (excluding those that are pre-existing) to which Cavapoos are susceptible. This includes conditions such as hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, mitral valve disease, epilepsy, and eye diseases.
The best time to get pet insurance for your Cavapoo is when he's a healthy puppy. This is because pet insurance companies typically charge higher premiums for older dogs and for dogs with pre-existing conditions, those conditions won’t be covered. When you get insurance right away, you’re less likely to have a pre-existing condition.
Don't wait until it's too late to get pet insurance for your Cavapoo. Get a quote from Embrace today and see how much you can save on your Cavapoo's veterinary care.
So, Is a Cavapoo Right for You?
Cavapoos are more than just dogs. They are furry members of our families, our loyal companions, and our best friends. They bring us joy, laughter, and unconditional love. They teach us about the importance of living in the moment, appreciating the simple things in life, and finding happiness in the everyday.
If you are lucky enough to have a Cavapoo in your life, cherish every moment with them. They are truly special creatures, and they deserve all the love and happiness in the world.
Here is to all the Cavapoos out there! May your lives be filled with love, laughter, and endless adventures.