Are Cavapoos the right breed for my family?

Welcome to the world of Cavapoos!

Cavapoos are a very happy, loving, and affectionate breed and crave the company and attention of people; therefore, they make fantastic family dogs! They are very polite and well mannered, but as with any breed, they do need to be taught what is expected of them and what behaviors are right and wrong. Cavapoos are happy to be wherever you are; they like to be where everyone else is and are completely content just snuggling up next to you on the couch. Their easy-going nature makes them a good fit for almost any home, regardless of lifestyle. However, Cavapoos will not thrive in a home where they are often alone for long periods of time or in a home where they are primarily outside dogs. These babies are so loving and want nothing more than to be by their owner’s side whether it be playing, snuggling, or just sitting right next to them!


Are Cavapoos hypoallergenic?

While there is no such thing as a hypoallergenic dog, since all dogs shed, however, Cavapoos shed significantly less than most other breeds, they shed little to none of their fur. Despite their low shedding, Cavapoos still need to be brushed several times a week to prevent mats in their fur. However, when most people think of allergies to animals, they think of fur, but instead, it’s caused by shedding. When dogs shed they release dander into the environment. Dander is basically like human dandruff, its dead skin cells. Unfortunately, all animals have dander. However, the great thing about Cavapoos, is since they shed so little, and since they shed so little the dander remains trapped in their coat, they are less likely to cause allergic reactions as it isn’t released into the air of the home.


Temperament

Cavapoos are very loving and adventuresome as well as respectful, polite, and well-mannered dogs. They love accompanying their owners anywhere they go, not only because they bond so closely with their owners, but they also love exploring and being in new places and environments! They adjust well to new environments, love the chance to go on an adventure, and will try anything with their favorite person at their side! Cavapoos have a medium amount of energy, so they will not be hyperactive, but still require moderate amounts of exercise to remain happy and healthy. They are very social animals and love being around their owners as much as possible, as well as meeting new friends, people and animals alike! However, since they value social interaction, they don’t do well being isolated for long periods of time. They love the chance to play or spend time with their owners. Cavapoos love being around others and showing their love to others, from snuggling to kisses!


Do Cavapoos get along well with children and other animals?

As stated before, Cavapoos have a very loving and affectionate nature, they are very gentle and tolerant, especially when it comes to children and other animals! Cavapoos enjoy the company of children and other animals and are always excited about the chance to play! It is important to observe interactions between your Cavapoo and children though. Children also need to be aware of do’s and don’ts with your new puppy. While Cavapoos are gentle and tolerant, accidents can happen if your Cavapoo perceives behaviors as threatening, rough, or annoying. They still need to be properly introduced and socialized as well as taught proper manners around children and other animals. Socializing your Cavapoo as early as possible is important, especially when it comes to other animals. Always make sure to only expose your Cavapoo to dogs that you trust and that are well mannered. Cavapoos lack the prey drive that most other dogs have, therefore they are well-suited to living with smaller animals including cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, etc. Though it is important to properly introduce them to these animals and closely monitor them as they are being introduced to them at first.


Cavapoo Characteristics

Seeing as a Cavapoo is a designer dog crossed between a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a Poodle, you can expect that they will have the sweet eyes of a Cavalier, a loving, adorable expression in its face, and the compact, sturdy body that the Poodle has. Their coat can vary from soft, silky Spaniel locks to the compact tight curls of a Poodle. Cavapoos can also come in solid colors but also be multicolored with distinct, unique markings. Cavapoo coats are generally silky and somewhat wavy. Their fur is usually a medium length as well. Though due to the length, regular brushing and grooming is important to keep the coat healthy and mat and tangle-free. The Cavapoo coat goes through a “puppy” phase where the coat is flatter and of even length throughout their entire body. Roughly six months into their life, the true coat tends to begin growing in. Cavapoo coats begin to “feather” as they get older, which is hair growth around the ears, legs, chest, feet, and tail. It is important to keep these areas brushed or trimmed to prevent matting. Feathering can begin as late as two years of age.


Exercise Needs

Cavapoos have moderate exercise needs; a daily walk for about 30 minutes should be plenty to meet their exercise needs. Cavapoos are very playful dogs as well, so they will love playing with you, toys, and other animals! Cavapoos are not usually the type to wander, though a fenced-in area for your Cavapoo to play and potty is still ideal. Cavapoos love to explore! They’ll happily accompany you on walks at parks, in the forest, and even to dog parks! Lastly, since Cavapoos have above-average intelligence, they thrive off of regular brain games to keep your pooch’s mind active and engaged, this can be anything from training to channeling their productivity with games such as tug of war or fetch!