Cavapoo 🐶

Cavapoos typically live to around 12–15 years. As a small crossbreed they tend to be fairly long-lived, helped by the genetic diversity of a first-cross. But they can inherit conditions from either parent breed, so lifespan depends heavily on the health of the Cavalier and Poodle they come from — choosing a health-tested puppy, keeping your dog lean, and regular vet care all help yours reach the upper end.

Because it's a Cavalier × Poodle cross, a Cavapoo can inherit conditions from both: heart disease (mitral valve disease) and syringomyelia from the Cavalier, eye conditions such as PRA from either, plus patellar luxation, hip issues and ear infections. Hybrid vigour helps, but it's no guarantee — choosing a breeder who health-tests both parents (heart, eyes, ideally MRI) is the best safeguard.

Yes — Cavapoos are among the most popular family companions for good reason: affectionate, gentle, playful and usually great with children and other pets, in a small, adaptable package that suits flats and houses alike. They do need company (they dislike being left alone for long), regular grooming and daily exercise. For an involved household, a Cavapoo is a wonderfully friendly companion.

Cavapoos are usually low-shedding, inheriting much of the Poodle's coat, which is part of their appeal — but 'low-shedding' isn't 'non-shedding', and the amount varies from dog to dog depending on which parent's coat they take after. None are truly hypoallergenic. Whatever the coat, it needs regular grooming every few weeks plus brushing in between to prevent matting.

No breed or cross is truly hypoallergenic, including the Cavapoo — though many shed very little and some allergy sufferers tolerate them better than heavier-shedding breeds. It varies by individual dog and how much of the Poodle's coat they inherit. If allergies are a concern, spend time around the specific dog (or its parents) before committing rather than relying on the label.

Cavapoos are a small breed, though size varies with the Poodle parent. Crossed with a Toy or Miniature Poodle, adults typically weigh around 5–11kg and stand roughly 23–35cm at the shoulder. Because size can vary in any cross, ask the breeder about both parents if final size matters to you — but most Cavapoos are a convenient, lap-friendly small dog.

Cavapoos have moderate energy and usually need around 30–60 minutes of exercise a day, split across walks plus play and some mental stimulation. They enjoy activity but are equally happy curling up at home. Keeping them active enough to stay lean matters, as the breed loves its food — but they're adaptable and don't need the hours that a working breed does.

Yes, regular grooming is part of Cavapoo ownership. The low-shedding coat needs brushing several times a week to prevent matting — especially around the ears, legs and bottom — plus a professional trim every six to eight weeks or so. Add weekly ear checks (the floppy ears are prone to infections) and routine nail and dental care. It's manageable, but it needs doing consistently.

Start by choosing a puppy from health-tested parents — with a cross, that's the biggest factor. Then keep your dog lean, stay on top of the ears and teeth, groom regularly, and have yearly heart checks given the Cavalier heritage, moving to twice-yearly vet visits as they age. Acting early on any cough, scratching or eye or ear trouble all support a long, healthy life.

Excellent with children of all ages. As a general guide, Cavapoos tend to be patient and tolerant. Whatever the breed, always supervise dogs and young children and teach kids to interact gently.

As a healthy adult, a typical Cavapoo needs around an hour of exercise a day (60–80 minutes), split across walks plus play. A good sniffy walk plus some play and training usually keeps them happy. Puppies, seniors and dogs with health conditions need less — ask your vet.

Low shedding. Coat upkeep is high upkeep — plan on frequent brushing and regular trips to a groomer.

Good for first-time owners. Cavapoos are generally a forgiving choice for first-time owners who put in early training and socialisation. Reward-based training and early socialisation help any dog.

Quiet. They are usually fairly easy-going about barking, though any dog will bark if bored or under-exercised.

Sociable with other dogs. Early, positive socialisation with other dogs from a young age makes a big difference.

Flat-friendly. A Cavapoo can adapt to flat living as long as it gets its daily exercise and company.