Fun Cavapoo Facts For Kids

Akinwalere Olaleye
Oct 20, 2022 By Akinwalere Olaleye
Originally Published on Aug 05, 2021
Edited by Natalie Rayworth
Read these Cavapoo facts to learn more about these dogs
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Age: 3-18
Read time: 12.7 Min

Cavapoos are smart and loving companions. Small and loving in demeanor, this mixed breed makes the perfect house pet. Cavapoos are a cross between Poodles and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. Their outgoing and curious nature makes them great playmates for children and adults alike. Being easy to train and gentle in demeanor, almost anybody can look after a Cavapoo. This makes them very popular among first time pet parents.

Apart from being terrific house pets, Cavapoos make for excellent therapy dogs as well. Their sensitive nature and easy trainability helps patients with therapy of many kinds. Due to the close bonds that this small dog can form with their humans and other animals, they don’t like being alone. They are easily prone to separation anxiety so if you are away often it is not ideal to adopt one of these dogs. It’s no doubt that mini Cavapoos are gaining popularity because of all these lovely attributes. Since they are so friendly and kind, they also integrate well with other animals, especially dogs. All in all, they will put a smile on your face!

If you like this article, check out more facts on labrador retrievers and Caribbean reef sharks.

Cavapoo Interesting Facts

What type of animal is a Cavapoo?

Cavapoos (Canis lupus familiaris]) are members of the dog family canidae in the mammalia class. Cavapoos come from Australia, which is famous for creating new designer breeds. Just like labradoodles, Cavapoos are a mixed breed dog, designed to be the best of both their parents. In the 1990s, Australian breeders were the first to cross the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel with Poodles to create this kind and gentle creature. This was done with the intention of combining the intelligence of Poodles, with the docile and peaceful temperament of the Spaniel.

What class of animal does a Cavapoo belong to?

Cavapoos (Canis lupus familiaris) belong to the mammalia class.

How many Cavapoos are there in the world?

The population of Cavapoos is currently undetermined. Being mixed breed designer dogs, they are bred in captivity and human breeders control their population. Because of this, they are not under any existential danger.

Where does a Cavapoo live?

These dogs currently live in homes with their loving owners. However, it is breeders in Australia who started mixing Cavalier King Charles Spaniels with Poodles to give birth to these cute little dogs. They are common in Australia, the United Kingdom, the United States of America and some parts of Asia.

What is a Cavapoo's habitat?

Being a designer breed, Cavapoos don’t have a natural habitat. They are bred in captivity, and are more or less a human invention. They make a great family dog and therefore they live in loving homes with owners.

Who do Cavapoos live with?

Being small designer dogs, Cavapoos primarily live with humans or other dogs. This miniature dog primarily lives in homes with families, although they do exist in some working areas such as therapeutic institutions.

How long does a Cavapoo live?

Cavapoos typically have a lifespan of between 12 to 15 years. They may live longer or shorter depending on how they are looked after and if they have any predisposed health issues.

Being a mixed breed designer dog, Cavapoos are often susceptible to genetic health problems. Some common health problems that affect Cavapoos are hip dysplasia, cataracts, heart disease, progressive retinal atrophy, epilepsy, and ear infections.  

Hip dysplasia is common among dogs bred in captivity. It affects the hip joints, cartilage and reduces overall mobility. Hip dysplasia generally presents itself when the dog is around six to seven years of age and progresses as they get older.

Another common health problem among Cavapoos is cataracts. This makes the dogs vision cloudy and makes it difficult for them to navigate through everyday life. Thankfully, this can be solved through eye surgery.

A disease that Cavapoos can inherit from their parents is mitral valve heart disease. This can be inherited from the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. It involves the degeneration of the mitral valve in the heart, giving rise to problems in blood flow.

Epilepsy is another problem that Cavapoos can inherit from their parents. Epilepsy is a neurological condition that leads to mild or severe seizures. This can appear at any time in the dogs life.    

Cavapoos are also prone to several types of ear infections and must be checked periodically.

How do they reproduce?

First generation Cavapoos are known as an F1 cross. F1 cross dogs have the benefit of what is called 'heterosis', also known as ‘hybrid vigor’. When two F1s mate, their offspring is known as an F2. Like all dogs, Cavapoos are not monogamous. That means that they can have more than one mate in their lifetime. They may also mate across breeds.

What is their conservation status?

The conservation status of Cavapoos is considered to be Least Concern. As Cavapoos are a hybrid breed that are bred in captivity, there is little chance of them going Extinct any time soon. Another reason for this is that they are becoming increasingly popular as pets and therapy dogs.

Cavapoo Fun Facts

What do Cavapoos look like?

Being a mixed breed dog, Cavapoos are a unique specimen. They inherit the best traits from both of their parents, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Poodle. Cavapoo coats are generally chestnut and white, however, they may come in many shades depending on their parentage. These other coat colors include cream, chocolate, gold chestnut, cream, chestnut and white. The most common coat colors are brown. Cavapoos have large, beady eyes to fall in love with. Their coats can also differ, and they vary from short and soft to wavy and curly. They are on the smaller size, which makes them perfect house pets and they look similar to a toy poodle.

Cavapoos are a mixed designer breed, which makes them unique.

How cute are they?

Cavapoos are among the cutest animals you will meet. They have large eyes, soft coats and are just the right size. Their friendly and sensitive temperament also adds to their cuteness.

How do they communicate?

Like other dog breeds, Cavapoo dogs communicate by barking. They bark while playing, when they get defensive, and even when they're just looking out for the family. They also bark a lot when left alone and can suffer from separation anxiety.  

Cavapoo dogs also communicate by wagging their tails when they are happy or excited, and they place their tails between their legs when they are afraid.

How big is a Cavapoo?

Cavapoos grow to up to be the size of around 9-14 in (23-35.5 cm).

How fast can a Cavapoo run?

The top speed of a Cavapoo adult is 36 mph (57 kmph).

How much does a Cavapoo weigh?

A full grown Cavapoo weighs between 9-25 lb (4-11.5 kg).

What are the male and female names of the species?

Like other dog breeds, male dogs are called a dog or a stud, and female dogs are called a bitch.

What would you call a baby Cavapoo?

Baby Cavapoos are called puppies.

What do they eat?

A diet of dry kibble with ample meat based protein, micronutrients, healthy fats, and carbs will fuel this Spaniel and Poodle mix. Cavapoo puppies must be given food meant for puppies to ensure that they are getting the nutrition they need.

Are they hypoallergenic?

Yes, generally Cavoo dogs are hypoallergenic. Cavapoo dog breeds inherit their characteristics from both parents, making their coats vary, but there is a standard that often appears. They usually have a curly or wavy coat. Because of their curly coat, they have low shedding, making them a hypoallergenic dog breed. This makes them excellent around people with allergies. The curly coat is more prone to knotting so their fur doesn’t shed until they have been brushed. However, no dog is entirely hypoallergenic as they will still shed a little.

Would they make a good pet?

Cavapoos are known to be extremely friendly dogs and make great pets. They are thoroughly outgoing, playful and affectionate. They get attached to the people and animals around them and form inseparable bonds. Because of this, they are prone to separation anxiety. Cavapoos are very good with families, elderly people and children. Because they get so attached, it is important to train them to be alone. All in all, they have a very sweet disposition.

Like all smart and intelligent dogs, Cavapoos get bored easily. They require sufficient mental stimulation. Add this to their dislike for being alone, and they can be destructive when they haven't been entertained for a while. To prevent this kind of behavior, it is important for your Cavapoo to be well trained. This training must be done specifically to teach the dog how to be alone. Otherwise, they can be prone to excessive scratching and gnawing on furniture and other objects.

Because they are so intelligent, Cavapoos are extremely trainable. However, training must be done in a proper way. They are easily bored and have to be stimulated at every step. Because Cavapoos are so sensitive, the best approach to train them is by using positive reinforcement. Using aggression in any form can scare them due to their sensitivity, and may provide a training experience that is unpleasant.

Cavapoos are easily socialized with humans and other dog breeds. Due to this and their inherent intelligence, they can pick things up easily. As quick learners, there is little need to spend too much time on their training. Being sensitive also makes them prone to being scared easily. This is why it is important to train them in short bursts until they are accustomed to the environment, the people and the dogs within it.

Due to the fact that one of the Cavapoos parents is a working dog, Cavapoos have a high activity and energy level. However, Cavapoo dogs do not require a very high amount of exercise. Two or three short walks a day will keep your Cavapoo dog satisfied. However, it is important to tire them out until they need more exercise.

Did you know...

Cavapoos are a recently bred mixed breed that originated in Australia. Because of this, there is no official standard name. Some owners and breeders often refer to Cavapoos as Cavadoodles or Cavoodles. However, the most common and widely used name is Cavapoo.

Because of their kind nature, affectionate temperament and non-imposing size, Cavapoos are well suited to be therapy dogs. There have been studies that show Cavapoos form a lasting bond with humans and help in their therapy. Therapists often work with Cavapoos when performing canine-assisted therapy (CAP). CAP includes individual therapy, child therapy and family therapy. Cavapoos have been found to be very beneficial when dealing with a number of mental health issues including depression and anxiety.

Since Cavapoos are a designer dog breed, their market is a very niche one. There are reputable breeders who will be able to get you the perfect pup. These breeders consider their parentage and all factors including the dogs look and temperament. Since Cavapoos are a mixed breed, they are prone to predisposed health risks and genetic diseases. This is why it is important to get your dog from a known breeder who has access to their lineage.

Cavapoos, surprisingly, have a very high prey drive. No matter how small they may be, they are prone to chasing down animals that they might consider to be potential prey. They inherit this from their Spaniel parent. Due to this strong prey drive, it is advised to walk your Cavapoo with a leash.

For many reasons, people are choosing to adopt dogs instead of buying them. While there are many local rescue shelters and adoption clinics, here are a few places to find the perfect Cavapoo. North Shore Animal League America is a rescue group that rescues Cavapoos and other dogs across the country. They have a no-kill policy, which means that all kinds of dogs can be found here. NorCal Poodle Rescue is an organization that specializes in rescuing Poodles, Cavapoos and other mixed breeds that have Poodle bloodlines. They are based in California. Nation City Puppy is another organization based in California that has Cavapoos up for adoption. Puppy Find is an online website that helps you search for puppies to adopt depending on your location. You can also narrow your search depending on the breed, age and sex of the puppy.

Rescue shelters and adoption agencies often want to ensure that the dog is going to a good home. This is to make sure that the dog has a comfortable and happy life. This is also done to reduce the chances of them coming back to the rescue shelter. Generally, when adopting, these are the steps that you will be required to go through. First, select the dog you want to adopt, then fill out an application form at the adoption agency or rescue shelter. After this you might have to sit for an interview and agree to a home visit from a representative of the shelter or agency. This will help to show proof that your home is suitable enough. Some agencies insist on a yard for the dog to run around in. After this you will have to pay for the medical expenses and sterilization, it if hasn’t already been done. Then you'll pay the adoption fees to cover the shelter or agencies costs. This can be anywhere between 200 USD and 400 USD depending on where you are.

Due to the fact that Cavapoos are a mixed breed dog, the American Kennel Club and other pure-bred associations do not recognize it. However, there are other organizations under which Cavapoos can be registered. These include The American Canine Hybrid Club, The International Designer Canine Registry, The Kennel Club, and The International Canine Association.

Interestingly, the more organizations that your dog is registered with, the more their price increases. This is especially true for their progeny, as lineage can be easily verified by registration across generations.

Are Cavapoos high maintenance?

All in all, Cavapoos are among breeds that are a medium maintenance dog. Due to their curly coat getting entangled, they have low shedding. However, this also means that your Cavapoo needs to be groomed regularly. Weekly brushing of their coat will prevent excessive knotting. Regular baths and trimming in hotter climatic conditions is also advised. This will keep their coat healthy.

If your Cavapoo is a house dog, their nails will need to be clipped regularly. This will prevent snagging in the fur. Apart from this, regular brushing of their teeth, cleaning of their ears and trimming their fur will keep your Cavapoo happy at all times.

How much does a Cavapoo cost?

The cost of a Cavapoo varies depending on several factors. Prices are cheaper if there are more local breeders. Cavapoo puppies are usually more expensive than fully-grown dogs. A fully trained dog will cost more, especially if they are a working dog. The more generations that pass, the more expensive the dog gets. For example, an F3 puppy will be more expensive than an F1 puppy. A dog with a pedigree and champion parent breeds will cost more than a non-pedigree puppy. Paper work also plays a big role. Prices will also vary depending on the reputation of the breeder and how long they have been breeding Cavapoos. Seasonal changes also affect the cost of a Cavapoo. Prices are higher in the summer.

Depending on all these factors, Cavapoo puppies will cost between 1800 USD and 4000 USD. An adult Cavapoo generally costs between 900 USD and 1800 USD. Adoption and rescue dogs don’t cost anything. However, the medical and adoption fees can amount to anything between 200 USD and 400 USD depending on where you live.

Here at Kidadl, we have carefully created lots of interesting family-friendly animal facts for everyone to discover! Learn more about some other mammals including black Russian terrier, or Afghan hound.

You can even occupy yourself at home by drawing one of our cavapoo dog coloring pages.

Cavapoo Facts

What Did They Prey On?

Dry kibble and meat based protein

What Type of Animal were they?

Omnivores

Average Litter Size?

5-6 puppies

How Much Did They Weigh?

9-25 lb (4-11.5 kg)

What habitat Do they Live In?

homes, breeders and shelters

Where Do They Live?

uk, australia and the usa

How Long Were They?

N/A

How Tall Were They?

9-14 in (23-35.5 cm)

Class

Mammalia

Genus

Canis

Family

Canidae

Scientific Name

Canis lupus familiaris

What Do They Look Like?

Small, round faces, floppy ears and big round eyes

Skin Type

Fur

What Are Their Main Threats?

poor breeding

What is their Conservation Status?

Least Concern
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Written by Akinwalere Olaleye

Bachelor of Arts specializing in English Literature

Akinwalere Olaleye picture

Akinwalere OlaleyeBachelor of Arts specializing in English Literature

As a highly motivated, detail-oriented, and energetic individual, Olaleye's expertise lies in administrative and management operations. With extensive knowledge as an Editor and Communications Analyst, Olaleye excels in editing, writing, and media relations. Her commitment to upholding professional ethics and driving organizational growth sets her apart. She has a bachelor's degree in English Literature from the University of Benin, Edo State. 

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