Cavoodle Dog Breed Information

Group

Unrecognized

Weight

5-12 kg

Height

28-35 cm

Lifespan

28-35 cm

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About the Cavoodle

Reviewed by:

Dr. Cristina Alice Vulpe

Veterinarian

The Cavoodle is a popular designer breed, especially in Australia, created by crossing the famous Cavalier King Charles Spaniel with the regular house poodle. The result is these brown Cavoodle puppies of varied genetic compositions. Depending on the parent breeds, these small dogs come in two sizes: Miniature Cavoodle and Toy Cavoodle. The best part about being a parent of a pet Cavoodle is that even as they mature into full adults, they are adored for their puppy-like appearance.

In Australia, the Cavoodle is a tiny dog breed with a brown coat noted for its softness and the energy these dogs have. Depending on which parent it takes after more, dog owners get to enjoy a breed that either has a straight or curly brown coat. These small dogs, a cross between a Spaniel and a poodle, are high-energy and need to be exercised regularly, if not daily, to avoid genetic diseases and to remain happy at all life stages.

What makes these small dogs unique is that they are incredibly intelligent and make great companions that are loving and have a gentle nature. Similar to the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, the Cavoodle also requires lots of mental stimulation, which means frequent visits to the dog park for regular exercise. They are ideal for families with children due to their gentle and affectionate nature. Cavoodles are especially great for families who want a puppy with vibrant tan or brown colors (with low shedding) in Australia, rather than a Cavalier. Cavoodle puppies are especially cute and are a much better option than a Toy Poodle. Similar to purebred dogs, a pet Cavoodle also requires professional grooming since they are, after all, a cross between a Spaniel and a Poodle.

Whether it’s a puppy or an adult, they make great pets because they enjoy socializing and have a long life expectancy. If you are thinking of a dog breed to get for yourself or your children in Australia, many dog owners will recommend these highly intelligent dogs over other breeds. This is mainly because even adult Cavoodles are small dogs that are easy to maintain and train compared to a Cavalier or other dog breeds, including purebreds. This, coupled with their gentle nature, makes pet Cavoodles just as good as many other dog breeds.

Now, it’s time to find out more about the pet Cavoodle – why they are better than a Toy Poodle, how much companionship and space these dogs require, along with certain health problems people need to know about when it comes to Cavoodle puppies.

What is the history & origin of the Cavoodle?

Few dog owners know this, but this dog breed has a unique history. During the 1950s, the first Cavoodle breeder in America bred the first Cavoodle in the United States. The dog breed eventually found its way to the United Kingdom and Australia. The Cavoodle has become the most popular dog breed in Australia, especially when it comes to small dogs that look similar to a Toy Poodle.

If you are looking for a small dog for your family in Australia that enjoys socializing and has a great-looking tan-colored coat (and low shedding), then the Cavoodle is the right choice for you. This is one of the main reasons why parents especially prefer this puppy when considering pets for their children.

What is a Cavoodle Breed?

The Cavoodle is a hybrid of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and the Poodle. The breeding is done with the intention of combining the best traits and DNA of both parent breeds.

As a result, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Poodle breeds are less likely to develop common issues like Syringomyelia, ear infections, Degenerative Mitral Valve Disease, Hip Dysplasia, dislocating kneecaps, Progressive Retinal Atrophy, allergy-causing dander, and other eye abnormalities like cataracts. In comparison to other dogs, Poodle-like canines are considered hypoallergenic, which might affect the way Cavoodles live and, in certain cases, their life expectancy. These issues can often be avoided with daily exercise.

It also resulted in a dog breed with a beautiful coat that is known for not shedding, making them hypoallergenic. The cross-breeding resulted in a dog that is intelligent, compassionate, affectionate, and enjoys human interaction. This is only one of the numerous benefits that this hybrid breed has over purebred dogs, which is why they are popular despite being a cross-breed.

Who is a Cavoodle Best For?

The Cavoodle breed has many good characteristics sought after by parents looking for dog options other than the Cavalier or Poodle. This dog breed is considered by many to be better than a Toy Poodle. As a result, a pet Cavoodle is suited for parents looking for small pets with vibrant colors for their children. Generally, Cavoodles are best for the following dog owners:

A family looking for hypoallergenic dogs.
A family looking for pets that have a gentle nature, especially around children and other age groups like the elderly.
Couples looking for a companion dog that is not a Poodle or Cavalier.
Those who live in small apartments or homes with a small backyard, considering how much energy and space Cavoodles need.
Those who have time to spend with their Cavoodle for playtime, training, or walks in the dog park, as Cavoodles enjoy socializing at all stages of their lives.
Those looking for a furry, four-legged family member that their household pets will get along with.

Cavoodle Grooming & Shedding

Cavoodles are known for their beautiful brown coats. Their coats are not only luscious and gorgeous, but they also don’t shed as much as other dogs. However, they do require special attention to avoid tangling and matting, which can lead to infection and other health issues. Cavoodles have two types of fur: curly and straight, and both require regular grooming.

Brushing the coat and teeth may be done at home to maintain the coat’s appearance and avoid tartar buildup. When you’re confident, you can groom them at home. In the meantime, professional grooming services every 6 to 8 weeks can help ensure your Cavoodle looks great and healthy.

Ear cleaning to avoid infections, teeth brushing to prevent dental issues, and eye cleaning are all grooming treatments that can be done at home in addition to brushing. If you go the DIY route, ensure to use a 3cm blade width for a mini trimmer, or a 5cm blade on a full-size clipper, taking care not to nick the floppy ears.

For families getting their first Cavoodle, when trimming the coat always:

Straighten out any tangles or knots (before washing).
Shampoo and condition.
Make sure the coat is completely dry. Use a dog dryer to remove excess water if needed.
Comb the coat gently using a side-tooth comb to ensure all tangles are straightened out.

If your Cavoodle ends up with matted fur after all your efforts, it’s best to call in the experts – a professional grooming service who will handle your Cavoodle gently. If you have a trusted vet, consult them for reliable grooming recommendations.

Nail trimming is also part of the grooming process for Cavoodles and should not be ignored. Trimming their nails will prevent injury and keep their coat intact. Regular vet visits for nail trimming are worthwhile to ensure your puppies remain healthy, especially given that Cavoodles can be prone to health issues like allergy-causing dander and congenital heart problems. Proper ear cleaning is crucial to prevent ear infections.

Do Cavoodles bark a lot?

A barking dog may be irritating, but it’s how they communicate. Dogs communicate by barking to express happiness, anxiety, wariness, or excitement. Training your Cavoodle puppy to stop barking altogether is not advisable; instead, you can train them to bark only when necessary.

Since Cavoodles enjoy socializing, they tend to be vocal, especially while playing with children. However, their intelligence means even a puppy can learn to control excessive barking. If your Cavoodle is barking excessively, identify the cause. Is it lacking exercise or feeling unsettled in its environment?

Cavoodles thrive on human interaction, so understanding their social needs is essential. If you’re away for long hours, consider hiring a dog sitter to provide companionship and exercise.

What is the average weight & height of a Cavoodle dog?

Cavoodles come in various sizes, depending on the parent breeds. Those bred from Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and Toy Poodles are smaller than those from Miniature Poodles. Cavoodles typically reach a height of 30 to 35 cm and weigh between 5 to 12 kg. Many dog enthusiasts choose them for their petite stature, especially as a small hybrid or designer dog that isn’t a Cavalier.

Smaller Cavoodles weigh around 5 kg and are about 11 inches tall, while larger Cavoodles can weigh up to 12 kg and reach heights of 14 inches. A significant advantage of this breed is its friendly, gentle nature. They tend to get along well with cats, other dogs, and people, which simplifies pet ownership.

Cavoodles need regular attention and companionship, as they are sensitive, especially as puppies.

Are Cavoodles easy to train?

The intelligence of the Cavoodle makes training relatively straightforward, though it requires patience, attention, and positive reinforcement. Positive reinforcement is key; rewarding good behavior encourages repetition, while negative reinforcement can lead to fear and aggression. If training is challenging, consider seeking professional help or advice from your vet.

Training should start early, as consistent training is vital. Avoid confusing your Cavoodle with inconsistent commands or reactions. Using a clicker is an effective training method. It helps maintain consistency; simply click and praise when your Cavoodle responds correctly.

While treats can be a reward, mixing in affection like belly rubs can be equally effective. Avoid over-reliance on treats to prevent disappointment if they run out. For detailed training tips, check our resources.

How do Cavoodles behave? A look at their temperament and personality

Cavoodle pups have a lively, social, loving, loyal, and pleasant temperament. They possess the desirable traits you’d want in a dog, without neurotic tendencies. They are true companion dogs, suitable for people of all ages and incredibly affectionate.

However, because of their affectionate nature, they can experience separation anxiety if left alone for long periods. This can occur even if other pets are present. To mitigate this, consider hiring a dog sitter if you work long hours, ensuring your Cavoodle receives exercise and companionship.

Does the Cavoodle have any common health issues?

Fortunately, Cavoodles are generally healthy dogs with few health risks. Their hybrid nature makes them less susceptible to the frequent health issues found in their parent breeds. Still, there are some hereditary disorders to be aware of:

Syringomyelia: A disorder where the brain is too small for the skull, causing discomfort. Consult a vet if you notice signs of pain.
Mitral Valve Disease: Common in Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, it can lead to congestive heart failure. Regular health exams are advisable.
Dislocating Knee Caps (Patellar Luxation): This occurs when the kneecap dislocates, causing discomfort and gait changes. Severe cases may require surgery.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy: A degenerative eye condition leading to vision loss. Consult a vet if you notice symptoms.
Ear Infections: Regular vet visits can help prevent and treat these infections.
Eye Defects and Cataracts: Look for tear stains or other signs; surgery may be needed for cataracts.
Hip Dysplasia: A painful condition affecting the hip joint and gait.
Regular vet visits, proper exercise, and nutrition will help maintain your Cavoodle’s health. Ensure any grooming or skincare products are hypoallergenic.

What is the lifespan of a Cavoodle?

Thanks to the benefits of cross-breeding, Cavoodles have a more diverse genetic composition than purebreds, leading to a lifespan of 10–14 years on average. For a healthier dog, consider adopting from reputable breeders who prioritize health testing and minimize hereditary diseases.

How much does a Cavoodle need to be fed?

Cavoodle pups should be fed three to four times a day with a specially prepared puppy chow that contains all of their essential nutrients. As they get older, this can be decreased to one or two meals each day. They’ll also need to transition to adult food, which has less protein and fat than puppy chow. You can easily find a brand that’s specific to your dog in the market.

How much can you expect to pay for a Cavoodle in Australia?

Depending on the breeder, a Cavoodle might cost anywhere from $2500 to $5000 AUD. But their level of cuteness and intelligence makes them worth every penny.