A fluffy, soft coat that runs from silky and wavy to tightly curled, giving a teddy-bear look. It sheds little, and puppy coats can change colour as the dog grows up.123
Sweet, gentle and sociable, the Cavapoo gets on with almost anyone, human or animal. It is playful and clever, tuned in to its owner's moods, and happiest as part of family life.231
Daily activity how busy a day looks
Low to moderate: a few short walks a day plus games like hide-and-seek or light agility. Not a jogging partner for long distances.23
Grooming and care the hands-on bits
Brush at least three times a week with a slicker brush and plan a professional groom about every six weeks. Keep the ears and eyes clean, trim nails every 4 to 6 weeks and brush teeth often.23
Home where they are happiest
Adapts equally well to an apartment or a house with a garden, as long as people are around much of the day.2
Food basics what goes in the bowl
A complete food suited to its life stage; puppies get three to four small meals a day, adults two. Keep treats to about a tenth of daily calories.2
Company who they like around
Loves company and bonds closely with its family; great with gentle children and other pets. Does not like being left alone for long.23
The story where it all began
Breeders in Australia started crossing the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel with small Poodles during the designer dog boom of the late 20th century. The goal was a small, friendly companion with the Poodle's brains and low-shedding coat. It became even better known after well-known Australians, including a former prime minister, took one home.1
Fun facts for the dinner table
1
In Australia, where the cross started, it is usually called the Cavoodle.1
2
Former Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard helped raise the Cavoodle's profile by owning one.1
3
A Cavapoo puppy's coat colour can shift as it matures.3
4
Their gentle nature means many Cavapoos make excellent therapy dogs.2
Where the name comes from the story behind it
The name 'Cavapoo' is a portmanteau of its two parent breeds: the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and the Poodle.2
I woke up to a gentle nudge from my human. We went for a short walk, sniffing flowers and greeting neighbors. At home, we played hide-and-seek with a toy under the blanket. I love being part of everything. After lunch, I helped my human with the laundry by lying on the warm pile. In the evening, we all sat together and watched the sunset. I felt so happy and loved.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
Recognised by the official bits
Major kennel clubs (incl. AKC)
Not recognised as a breed by the major kennel clubs.1
The care rhythm a typical week and year
A typical home-care rhythm for a Cavapoo. A starting point, not a vet's advice.
Brushingevery week
Bathevery 8 weeks
Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
Ear checkevery 2 weeks
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upevery year
Treats they will love homemade and simple
Cavapoo tip
Keep treats small and low calorie, and count them within your Cavapoo's daily allowance, as this little dog gains weight easily. Choose treats that support dental health, and if you notice tummy upsets or itchy skin, a limited-ingredient treat might help, but always ask your vet first.
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
Owner questions the things everyone asks
How often should I feed my Cavapoo, and at what times?
For puppies, offer three to four small meals each day, while adults do well with two meals. Consistent times like morning and evening help their routine. Always follow the food label and your vet for exact amounts.24
What should a Cavapoo eat, and which foods are dangerous?
Feed a complete, balanced food that matches your Cavapoo's age and size. Keep treats to about ten percent of daily calories. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onion, garlic, and xylitol, as these are especially harmful to dogs.25
How often should I bathe a Cavapoo?
A bath every eight weeks is a good starting point, but you can bathe more often if your dog gets dirty. Over-bathing can dry the coat, so use a gentle dog shampoo.6Pet Wiki plan
How often does a Cavapoo need brushing?
Brush your Cavapoo at least three times a week with a slicker brush to prevent mats and tangles. Furry Diary's starting plan suggests weekly brushing, but more frequent is better for their soft, curly coat.23Pet Wiki plan
How do I trim a Cavapoo's nails, and how often?
Trim nails every four to six weeks, or sooner if you hear them clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick to avoid pain. If you're unsure, ask your vet or a professional groomer.26Pet Wiki plan
How much exercise does a Cavapoo need?
A few short walks each day plus fun games like hide-and-seek are perfect for this breed. They have low to moderate energy and enjoy being active with you. Daily walks and play keep them happy.23Pet Wiki plan
How do I look after a Cavapoo's teeth and ears?
Brush your Cavapoo's teeth two to three times a week with dog toothpaste; daily is ideal. Check ears weekly for dirt or odor and clean gently with a vet-recommended solution. Never push anything into the ear canal.26Pet Wiki plan
How long does a Cavapoo live?
With good care, a Cavapoo typically lives between 12 and 15 years.23
Is a Cavapoo good with children and other pets?
Yes, Cavapoos are sweet, gentle, and sociable, making them wonderful with gentle children and other pets. They thrive on family life and love being part of the action.231
Can a Cavapoo be left alone?
Cavapoos love company and do not enjoy being left alone for long periods. They are happiest when someone is around most of the day, so consider your schedule before bringing one home.23
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavachon
Cavapoochon
Cockapoo
Maltipoo