These adorable, intelligent “designer” dogs are gaining unbelievable popularity worldwide. This “teddy bear” was first bred in the 1990s, and the Cavapoo has taken pride of place in many a family home since – and even worked in loads of careers!
Just as willing to snuggle up on the couch as they are to drag you on a hike, the Cavapoo adjusts well to many people’s lifestyles. But do you know how interesting they are? Though they’re still such a young breed, there is already so much interesting trivia about the Cavapoo. So, without further ado, let’s take a look at some interesting facts about Cavapoos:
They come from Australia
Like some other famous young crossbreeds, the Cavapoo is Australian! Australians were first to breed the King Charles Cavalier Spaniel with the Poodle to create an intelligent, companionable dog. It was suitable for guiding but without the allergenic coat of other popular working breeds.
They are not Toy Dogs
Despite their often diminutive size, the Cavapoo crossbreed is not actually categorized as a Toy Dog! Though Cavapoos may be bred from Toy Poodles or smaller Cavalier Spaniels, it’s unethical and irresponsible.
In the past, the demand for Toy Poodles almost eradicated the Poodle breed! Today, Cavapoo puppies are generally produced by crossing a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel with the slightly larger Miniature Poodle. This is because Miniature Poodles are healthier than Toys.
They can vary in size
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a fairly small dog breed, no matter what. The Poodle, however, comes in three or four varieties. The Cavapoo puppies have the potential to grow to around 14 inches. But no matter what size you end up with, you can be sure your Cavapoo will be cute!
They are still adorable
Just because they aren’t handbag dogs doesn’t mean they aren’t cute! Though the Cavapoo is still a very young and unpredictable breed, and we don’t know much about them, most Cavapoos turn out playful, friendly, and affectionate towards their family.
They get along with children and love playing with humans and dogs alike. Most Cavapoos prefer company to the extent that they risk developing separation anxiety.
The Cavapoo likely gets this companionability from their Cavalier side, a breed that has been the lapdog to many a royal.
Their coat type can vary
Did you know that the King Charles Cavalier Spaniel and the Poodle can have a range of different coat types? It’s not just the silky soft coat of the Cavalier or the ultra curly coat of the Poodle.
Sure, Cavapoos always have a hypoallergenic coat. But there’s no telling if they’ll inherit the double, medium length, wavy coat of the Cavalier King Charles or the single, dense, all white fluff of the Poodle. However their coat turns out, you can be sure it’ll need plenty of brushing!
They have a surprising prey drive!
Though they are small, friendly dogs that generally get along great with adults, kids, and other canines, the Cavapoo has an unexpected urge to chase small animals! This is no surprise when you consider both the Cavalier’s long past in flushing birds and the Poodle’s use in flushing, retrieving, and hunting.
No matter which breed they primarily inherit, your Cavapoo should be kept away from small pets and woodland areas.
A dog with many names
This young mixed breed is not yet officially recognised by any kennel club. Because of this, the Cavapoo dog has no official name. To avoid confusion with the other “Poo” dogs, like the Goldendoodle or Labradoodle, you may see breeders call this dog the “Cavoodle” or “Cavadoodle”, for example. However, they are still talking about the same Cavapoo.
They can make great service dogs
All intelligent pooches make brilliant service dogs, and the Cavapoo is no exception. With their small size and silky soft coat, Cavapoos can make a good option for working with children. Therapy dogs, trauma dogs, PTSD dogs, and seeing or guide dogs – the Cavapoo is suited to various roles. Just give them a chance, and they’ll rise to the occasion!
They are a definite family dog
Though the Cavapoo adapts well to various living situations, a Cavapoo cannot live outside. Not only does their coat and typically small size not allow it, but they’d get too lonely! The Cavapoo needs to be where you are and will bark languidly and excessively if they aren’t.
Include your Cavapoo in what you’re doing as much as you can. If you have to leave them alone, tire them out with 30 minutes of playtime before you leave and keep them busy with a range of chew toys when you are out.
They are good Instagram influencers!
If you took a scroll through Instagram, chances are one of the first things you’d come across would be a Cavapoo or two. Many Cavapoos are popular Instagram influencers, doing cute tricks, going for walks, and even demonstrating their service training!
They are pricey
All designer dogs are expensive to purchase, including the Cavapoo. The average Cavapoo puppy’s price will set you back anywhere from $1200 to $1800. As with all breeds, Cavapoos are waiting to be rescued, so I recommend you adopt rather than shop.
Their coat color can vary
Every Cavapoo is hypoallergenic, though their coat texture can vary greatly. But did you know that their colorings can look very different, too?
If your Cavapoo is more of a Poodle, expect to see a completely black, white, or apricot coat. Rarer colors include sable, brown, cream, and gray and types of blue, silver, and red.
But if your Cavapoo gets their coat from their Cavalier side, you might see a black and tan coat, a ruby one, the more common Tri-color, or even the coveted Blenheim markings! However, your Cavapoo looks, it will be stunning.