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Cavalier King Charles Spaniel × Poodle
Origin: Australia
Weight
9–25 lbs
Height
9–14 inches
Lifespan
12–15 years
Coat
Soft, wavy to curly
Breeder Cost
$1,500–$4,000
Adoption Cost
$100–$400
The Cavapoo combines the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel's gentle, affectionate nature with the Poodle's intelligence and low-shedding coat. They are one of the most popular small designer dogs in Australia and the UK. Cavapoos are gentle, sociable, and wonderful with children and other pets. They are ideal apartment dogs.
Best For
Apartment dwellers, families with children, seniors, allergy sufferers, those who want a gentle, devoted companion
Cavapoos need 30–60 minutes of moderate exercise daily. They enjoy walks, fetch, and play sessions. They are adaptable to their owner's activity level.
The Cavapoo's soft, wavy coat requires brushing 3–4 times weekly to prevent mats. Professional grooming every 6–8 weeks is essential.
Coat type: Soft, wavy to curly; low-shedding
MVD and syringomyelia — inherited from the Cavalier side — are serious concerns for Cavapoos. Buy from breeders who follow the MVD Breeding Protocol and MRI-test Cavalier parents for SM.
Mitral Valve Disease (MVD)
Inherited from the Cavalier side. This is a serious concern — annual cardiac screening is recommended.
Syringomyelia
Inherited from the Cavalier side. MRI screening of Cavalier parents is important.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Inherited from the Poodle side. DNA testing of parents is important.
Hip Dysplasia
Inherited from both parent breeds.
Patellar Luxation
Common in small breeds.
The Cavapoo originated in Australia in the 1990s, crossing the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel with the Poodle. The goal was a small, low-shedding companion dog that retained the Cavalier's legendary gentle temperament. The breed quickly spread to the UK, where it became one of the most popular designer dogs. They are sometimes called Cavoodles in Australia.
Cavapoos are called 'Cavoodles' in Australia, where the breed originated.
They are one of the most popular designer breeds in the UK, often outselling purebred dogs.
Their empathetic, gentle temperament makes them exceptional therapy and emotional support dogs.
Cavapoos inherit the Cavalier's tendency to develop mitral valve disease — health testing of parent dogs is essential.
They are one of the few designer breeds that adapt equally well to apartment living and large homes.
Owning a Cavapoo is a long-term financial commitment. Here's a realistic breakdown of what to budget for.
Annual Cost
$1,000–$2,000
First Year (incl. setup)
$2,500–$4,500
Small portions; quality food important for heart health
Heart disease (MVD from Cavalier side) is a significant risk
Soft wavy coat needs professional grooming every 6–8 weeks
Gentle and eager to please; responds beautifully to positive training
Gentle toys for this affectionate companion
Important — heart disease from Cavalier side is a real risk
* Estimates based on national averages. Costs vary by location, lifestyle, and individual health needs. Emergency vet visits are not included.
Estimated US Population
~200,000 in the US
Adoption Trend
Cavapoos have become one of the most popular small designer breeds in the UK and are growing rapidly in the US. Their combination of the Cavalier's gentle, empathetic temperament with the Poodle's low-shedding coat makes them ideal therapy dogs and family companions. The Cavalier's serious heart condition (MVD) is a health consideration that responsible breeders test for.
Use the guides below to compare practical options alongside this breed's care needs.
The right technology makes dog ownership easier, safer, and more connected — whether you're home or away. These are the products our editors consider must-haves for every dog owner.
Automatic Feeder
Schedule precise meals so your dog eats right — even when you're not home.
GPS Tracker
Real-time location tracking — because dogs follow their nose, not the fence line.
Pet Camera
Two-way audio and HD video — stay connected and soothe your dog from anywhere.
Robot Vacuum
Built for pet hair — keeps your home clean without lifting a finger.
Products marked with SmartPaws Recommended are ones we've independently reviewed and recommend across the site. All Amazon links include our affiliate tag — purchases support SmartPaws at no extra cost to you.
Omega-3 Supplement
Nordic Naturals Omega-3 Pet Fish Oil
Supports heart health in a breed prone to mitral valve disease.
SmartPaws RecommendedDental Care
Oxyfresh Premium Pet Dental Water Additive
Small breeds need daily dental care — water additive is the easiest solution.
SmartPaws RecommendedCalming Aid
Adaptil Calm Home Diffuser for Dogs
Cavapoos can be anxious when separated from their family.
SmartPaws RecommendedGPS Tracker
Tractive Smart Dog GPS Tracker
Cavapoos love outdoor adventures — GPS tracking keeps them safe on hikes and at the dog park.
SmartPaws RecommendedPet Camera
Furbo 360° Dog Camera
Cavapoos are social and bond deeply with their families — check in and toss a treat to reduce separation anxiety.
SmartPaws RecommendedTemperament
Climate & Physical
Compatibility
Rural & Outdoor
Scores reflect breed tendencies. Individual training significantly affects both livestock safety and off-leash reliability.
Based on breed-specific genetic health risks and common conditions
Many Cavapoos are waiting in shelters and breed-specific rescues. Adoption costs are typically $100–$400 vs. $1,500–$4,000 from a breeder.
Read our Rescue Guide →Get a printable PDF with traits, cost of ownership, health notes, and best-fit summary — free.