Cavoodles...the Best Breed for Oodles of Fun

What is a Cavoodle?

A Cavoodle, also known as a cavapoo or a Theodore, is Australia’s most popular breed, and is a cross between a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a Poodle. This hybrid breed combines the best traits of both parent breeds, resulting in a friendly, intelligent, and low-shedding dog.

How Big Do Cavoodles Get?

Cavoodles typically weigh between 4-12 kg and stand about 23 to 35 cm tall at the shoulder. This height range can vary depending on whether the Poodle parent was a miniature or a toy Poodle. 

Are Cavoodles Hypoallergenic?

Cavoodles are considered a low-shedding breed, making them a popular choice for people with allergies. In fact, the reason they were originally bred, was in orde to develop a Hypoallergenic breed. Their coat is usually curly or wavy, which helps reduce shedding, but regular grooming is still required.

Although Cavoodles are often considered “hypoallergenic”,  it's essential to understand that this doesn’t mean a dog won’t trigger allergies in sensitive individuals, but rather that they are less likely to do so compared to breeds that shed more. Cavoodles have a low-shedding coat, due to their poodle DNA, which can produce fewer allergens like dander, compared to breeds that shed profusely.

What is the Lifespan of a Cavoodle?

Cavoodles generally live to between 10 to 15 years of age. With proper care, nutrition, and regular veterinary check-ups, they can enjoy a long, healthy life. 

Are Cavoodles Good with Children and Other Pets?

Cavoodles are known for their friendly, gentle and sociable nature. They typically get along well with children and other pets, making them an excellent family dog. Early socialization is important to ensure they develop good behavior around others. 

How Much Exercise Does a Cavoodle Need?

Cavoodles are moderately active dogs and require daily exercise to stay healthy and happy. A mix of walks, playtime, and mental stimulation through games or training sessions is ideal.

• Puppy (8 weeks - 1 year):  Cavoodle puppies have high energy levels and require regular, but not excessive, exercise to support their physical development. Aim for short walks, play sessions, and supervised activities to prevent overexertion. Around 20-30 minutes of exercise multiple times a day is a great amount. 
• Adult (1 to 7 years old): Adult Cavoodles typically need around 30-60 minutes of exercise each day to maintain their health and energy levels. This can include brisk walks, interactive playtime, and mentally stimulating activities such as training sessions or puzzle toys.
• Senior (7 years and older): As Cavoodles age, their activity levels may decrease, but regular exercise remains important for maintaining muscle tone, joint health, and mental stimulation. Aim for around 20-30 minutes of low-impact exercise each day, such as gentle walks, swimming, or short play sessions. 
  
  

How Often Do I Need to Groom My Cavoodle?

The hair growth of a Cavoodle can vary depending on various factors such as genetics, grooming practices, and environmental conditions. Generally, Cavoodles usually have a wavy or curly coat that grows continuously, much like their Poodle parent's coat.

Without regular maintenance, their coat can grow quite long and most Cavoodle owners opt to keep their dog's coat trimmed to a shorter length for easier maintenance and to prevent matting and tangling. It is also recommended to keep your pups coat short in Summer months to make tick checks easier! 

It is also important to regularly brush and bath your cavoodle. We suggest brushing several times a week and bathing every 4 to 6 weeks (though this will vary depending on their lifestyle). 

What are Common Health Issues in Cavoodles?

Since Cavoodles are crossed between two breeds, they benefit from the  “Hybrid Vigour” effect, the phenomenon that the offspring will inherit improved health traits resulting in fewer problems than either of the parent breeds.

However, they can still have some health issues, the most common listed below:

• Patellar Luxation
• Hip dysplasia
• Heart problems
• Atopic Skin Disease
• Ear Infections
• Dental Disease

Regular veterinary check-ups are essential to catch and manage any potential health concerns early.

How Do I Train a Cavoodle?

Cavoodles are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train.  Positive reinforcement methods, such as treats and praise, work best. Consistency and patience are key to successful training. 

Training can, and should, begin as soon as you bring your Cavoodle puppy home, typically around 8 weeks of age. Early socialisation and basic obedience training are crucial during the puppy's developmental stages to establish good behaviour patterns and build a strong bond between you and your puppy, just remember to ensure they are fully vaccinated before taking them out to socialise!

Are Cavoodles Fussy Eaters?

Cavoodles are known for their fussy eating habits, which may stem from a combination of factors. Changes in routine, stressors like moving to a new home, or even underlying health issues such as dental problems or allergies can contribute to their selective eating behaviour.

Gradually introducing new foods, being patient and consistent with feeding routines, and avoiding reinforcing picky behaviour can all contribute to establishing a balanced diet and ensuring your Cavoodle receives the nutrition they need for optimal health and well-being.

What Should I Feed My Cavoodle?

A balanced diet of high-quality dog food that meets their nutritional needs is essential. Look for foods with high-quality proteins, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals.

By looking for specific ingredients in your dog’s food, you can help naturally support and even prevent some potential health concerns.

• Salmon: Rich in omega 3 fatty acids help maintain a healthy skin barrier and reduce inflammation, resulting in a shiny coat and reduced risk of skin conditions like dermatitis.
• Blueberries: Rich in vitamin C and E and antioxidants  help neutralise harmful free radicals in the body, strengthening the immune system and reducing the risk of chronic diseases
• Turmeric: Turmeric has potent anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate inflammation and pain associated with conditions like arthritis as well as supporting digestive health by promoting the production of digestive enzymes and reducing gut inflammation.
• Carrots: Rich in vitamin A, combat oxidative stress and inflammation, reducing the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. Their crunchy texture aids dental health, acting as a natural chew toy, while vitamin C supports gum health and collagen production.

What Should I Not Feed My Cavoodle

While Cavoodles can enjoy a wide variety of foods, there are some items you should avoid feeding them to ensure their health and safety:

• Chocolate
• Grapes and Raisins
• Onions
• Xylitol
• Alcohol
• Cooked Bones
• High-Fat Foods
• Caffeine

Always consult with your veterinarian before introducing new foods to your Cavoodle's diet, especially if you're unsure about their safety. 

Look for a Responsible and Ethical Breeder

Whether you are adding a full-size or toy Cavoodle to your family, you’ll want to find a responsible breeder. The breeder should ensure that the parents do not have any genetic problems and provide a nurturing environment for the first few months of your Cavoodle’s puppyhood. If you can, visit the breeder to see how they are caring for their dogs and ask them any questions that you have. 

Is a Cavoodle Right for You? 

Once you bring that little bundle of puppy love home, you will have a furry friend for years to come. They will quickly bond with you and that bond will remain strong all their life. You can count on many years of fun and companionship, and you will never tire of that cute Cavoodle face!