Cavapoo

• ExerciseModerate

  A daily walk plus some playtime hits the spot.

• GroomingBrush a few times a week

  Brushing several times a week prevents mats.

• Living spaceApartment-friendly

  Happy in smaller homes with regular outings.

• Owner experienceFor experienced owners

  Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• Commitment12–15 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Mitral valve disease · Patellar luxation · Ear infections

The Cavapoo, called the Cavoodle in Australia, crosses a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel with a Miniature or Toy Poodle. It is one of the most popular small crosses in Britain and Australia, and its appeal is straightforward: it inherits the Cavalier's exceptionally sweet, people-focused nature and the Poodle's intelligence and lower-shedding coat, in a five to eleven kilogram package that suits flats and families. As a companion it is genuinely easy. Cavapoos are gentle, affectionate, playful without being demanding, good with children and other pets, and content with thirty to sixty minutes of daily walking plus play. The main behavioural caution is separation anxiety: this cross is bred to want human company constantly, and it copes poorly with long days alone, so it suits a household where someone is usually home. The wavy or curly coat sheds little but mats readily and needs brushing every day or two plus grooming every six to eight weeks, and the drop ears need checking and drying to prevent infection. The health point that matters most is cardiac. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels have a very high rate of early-onset mitral valve disease, and crossing reduces but does not eliminate the risk, so buy only from a breeder who provides annual cardiologist heart certificates on the Cavalier parent, and ask about syringomyelia screening too. Also check for patellar luxation and eye testing on the Poodle side.

• How much exercise does a Cavapoo need?

  Moderate. A daily walk plus some playtime hits the spot.

• How much grooming does a Cavapoo need?

  Brush a few times a week. Brushing several times a week prevents mats.

• Is a Cavapoo suited to apartment living?

  Apartment-friendly. Happy in smaller homes with regular outings.

• Is a Cavapoo a good fit for first-time owners?

  For experienced owners. Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• How long do Cavapoo live?

  12–15 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Cavapoo?

  Keep an eye out for Mitral valve disease, Patellar luxation, Ear infections. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

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