The Ultimutt Cavapoo Handbook

The Cavapoo, a hybrid dog, is the result of crossbreeding a Poodle and a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. Breeders in the 1990s combined the two breeds to create a dog that not only had hypoallergenic traits but also a friendly and affectionate personality. This combination was immediately popular, as people were drawn to the Cavapoo's cuteness, intelligence and reduced allergy risk. The breed's welcoming nature and small size make it an ideal companion for both individuals and families. People often choose Cavapoos for their loving nature and ease of care, making them excellent pets in homes of all sizes. 

Cavapoos are incredibly social dogs that thrive on constant interaction with their owners and other pets. They are often seen staying close to their family members, eagerly seeking attention and affection. Cavapoos are known for being lap dogs, loving physical closeness with their humans. Although they are friendly towards familiar faces, they tend to be cautious when meeting new people, building trust over time.

Despite their desire for companionship, Cavapoos also enjoy playing interactive games like fetch and tug-of-war. Their intelligence makes training a breeze, and they quickly pick up new tasks and commands. These dogs are happiest when they spend time with people, and they can become anxious if left alone for too long.

Like many mixed-breed dogs, Cavapoos can inherit health issues from both of their parent breeds. Some common health concerns include:

Cavapoos, while energetic, don’t require as much exercise as some other high-energy breeds. They need about 30 to 60 minutes of activity daily, including short walks, playtime, and mental stimulation through games or training. These dogs enjoy interactive activities like agility training, jumping over obstacles, and retrieving items, which helps them stay fit and engaged. Two short walks a day are typically enough to meet their exercise needs, as long as they are supplemented with additional play and interaction.

One of the main reasons people choose Cavapoos is their hypoallergenic coat, a mix of the Poodle’s curls and the Cavalier’s smoother fur. While they shed less than many other breeds, their coat still requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangles. Weekly brushing is generally recommended, but some Cavapoos may need more frequent grooming, especially if they inherit the Poodle’s curly coat.

Routine grooming also includes nail trimming, ear cleaning, and teeth brushing. If you're not comfortable grooming your Cavapoo yourself, a professional groomer can assist with tasks like haircuts and more intricate grooming needs.

Due to their small size, Cavapoos have specific dietary requirements. They need a high-quality, protein-rich diet that supports their active lifestyle and overall health. Lean meats, vegetables, and healthy fats are the foundation of a balanced diet for this breed. Since Cavapoos are small, monitoring their weight is essential to prevent overeating and weight gain. They should be fed multiple small meals a day to aid digestion and keep their energy levels consistent.

Cavapoos require food designed for small breeds, which provides the appropriate nutrients for their size and activity level. Always offer fresh water and control treat portions to ensure they remain healthy.