Puppy Guide
Cavoodle Puppy Cost Australia 2026: What to Really Expect
Thinking about getting a Cavoodle? One of the first questions is cost – and not just the puppy price. Understanding the full financial picture helps you plan properly and ensures you can give your Cavoodle the care they deserve for their entire life.
This guide breaks down every cost involved in owning a Cavoodle in Australia in 2026, from initial purchase through to ongoing monthly expenses.
Cavoodle Puppy Prices in Australia (2026)
Cavoodle prices vary significantly based on several factors. Here’s what you can expect to pay in 2026:
| Cavoodle Type | Price Range | Average |
|---|---|---|
| Toy Cavoodle | $5,500 – $8,000 | $6,500 |
| Mini Cavoodle | $4,500 – $7,000 | $5,500 |
| Standard Cavoodle | $4,000 – $6,000 | $5,000 |
Factors That Affect Price
Size: Toy Cavoodles command higher prices because they’re in high demand and harder to breed (smaller litter sizes).
Colour: Some colours are more sought-after and priced accordingly:
- Most expensive: Red, ruby, apricot (often +$500-1,500)
- Mid-range: Cream, gold, chocolate
- More affordable: Black, parti-colours, tricolour
Location: Metropolitan breeders (Sydney, Melbourne) typically charge more than regional breeders. Rural areas can be $1,000-2,000 cheaper.
Breeder reputation: Established breeders with health testing, waiting lists, and good reputations charge premium prices.
Generation: F1B Cavoodles (more Poodle) may cost more due to curlier, “more hypoallergenic” coats.
Gender: Some breeders charge more for females (breeding potential), but the difference is usually minimal.
What Should Be Included
A reputable breeder’s price typically includes:
- First vaccinations (C3)
- Microchipping
- Vet health check
- Worming and flea treatment to date
- Puppy pack (food sample, toys)
- Health guarantee (usually 2-5 years)
- Registration papers (if applicable)
- Ongoing breeder support
If these aren’t included, factor in the additional costs (around $300-500 for vaccinations and microchipping).
Initial Setup Costs
Beyond the puppy price, you’ll need supplies and initial veterinary care. Here’s a realistic breakdown:
Essential Supplies
| Item | Budget Option | Quality Option |
|---|---|---|
| Crate (24″) | $50 | $120 |
| Bed/bedding | $30 | $80 |
| Food & water bowls | $15 | $40 |
| Collar & lead | $25 | $60 |
| Grooming kit (brush, comb, shampoo) | $40 | $100 |
| Toys (variety) | $30 | $80 |
| Training treats | $15 | $30 |
| Puppy pads/toilet supplies | $20 | $40 |
| Baby gates (if needed) | $30 | $80 |
| Total Supplies | $255 | $630 |
First Year Veterinary Costs
| Service | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Initial health check | $80 – $150 |
| Remaining puppy vaccinations | $150 – $250 |
| Microchip transfer/registration | $30 – $60 |
| Desexing (if desired) | $300 – $600 |
| Worming (first year) | $80 – $120 |
| Flea/tick prevention (first year) | $150 – $250 |
| Total First Year Vet | $790 – $1,430 |
Total Initial Investment
| Category | Low Estimate | High Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Puppy purchase | $4,500 | $8,000 |
| Supplies | $255 | $630 |
| First year vet | $790 | $1,430 |
| Total First Year | $5,545 | $10,060 |
Ongoing Monthly Costs
After the initial investment, here’s what ongoing ownership costs:
Food
| Food Type | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Budget kibble | $40 – $60 |
| Premium kibble | $70 – $100 |
| Fresh/cooked delivery (Lyka, etc.) | $150 – $250 |
| Raw diet | $120 – $200 |
Average: $60-100/month for quality kibble
Grooming
Cavoodles need professional grooming every 6-8 weeks.
- Professional groom: $80-120 per visit
- Annual grooming cost: $640-960 (6-8 grooms per year)
- Monthly average: $55-80/month
Add ~$10-15/month for home grooming supplies (shampoo, detangler, etc.)
Pet Insurance
Highly recommended for financial protection against unexpected vet bills.
- Accident only: $20-40/month
- Accident + illness (comprehensive): $50-100/month
- Premium plans: $80-120/month
Recommended: Comprehensive coverage ($50-80/month) with a $15,000+ annual limit
Preventive Healthcare
- Annual vaccination booster: $80-120
- Flea/tick/worming: $20-35/month
- Annual vet check-up: $60-100
- Dental cleaning (as needed): $300-600 every 1-2 years
Monthly average: $35-50/month (including annualised costs)
Treats and Toys
- Training treats: $10-20/month
- Chews and toys: $15-30/month
Monthly average: $25-50/month
Monthly Cost Summary
| Category | Budget | Comfortable | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| Food | $50 | $80 | $180 |
| Grooming | $65 | $85 | $110 |
| Pet insurance | $30 | $60 | $100 |
| Healthcare | $35 | $45 | $55 |
| Treats/toys | $25 | $40 | $60 |
| Monthly Total | $205 | $310 | $505 |
| Annual Total | $2,460 | $3,720 | $6,060 |
Additional Costs to Consider
Training
- Puppy school (6-8 weeks): $150-300
- Private training sessions: $80-150/hour
- Board and train programs: $1,500-3,500
At minimum, budget for puppy school. It’s an investment in a well-behaved dog.
Boarding/Pet Sitting
- Dog boarding: $45-80/night
- In-home pet sitting: $60-100/day
- Doggy daycare: $40-70/day
Factor this in if you travel. Two weeks of boarding annually adds $630-1,120 to your costs.
Dog Walking
- Group walks: $20-35/walk
- Private walks: $35-60/walk
If you work long hours, daily dog walking adds $400-750/month.
Emergency Veterinary Care
The unexpected happens. Without insurance, emergencies can cost:
- Minor emergency: $300-800
- Surgery: $2,000-8,000
- Serious illness treatment: $3,000-15,000+
This is why pet insurance is worth considering – one emergency can exceed years of premiums.
Lifetime Cost of a Cavoodle
With an average lifespan of 12-15 years, here’s the total financial commitment:
| Budget | Comfortable | Premium | |
|---|---|---|---|
| First year (inc. puppy) | $7,000 | $9,000 | $14,000 |
| Years 2-12 (11 years) | $27,060 | $40,920 | $66,660 |
| Senior years (13-15) | $8,000 | $13,000 | $22,000 |
| Lifetime Total | $42,060 | $62,920 | $102,660 |
Average lifetime cost: $50,000-70,000 over 12-15 years.
Note: Senior years often have higher vet costs due to age-related conditions.
Ways to Save Money
On Initial Purchase
- Consider less popular colours: Black Cavoodles are often $1,000-2,000 cheaper than red
- Look at regional breeders: Travel costs may be worth the savings
- Consider a Mini instead of Toy: Often $500-1,500 cheaper
- Adopt: Cavoodle rescue organisations occasionally have dogs (rare but worth checking)
On Ongoing Costs
- Learn to brush properly: Good home grooming extends time between professional grooms
- Buy food in bulk: Subscribe and save options reduce per-kg costs
- Pet insurance excess: Higher excess = lower premiums (if you can cover it)
- Preventive care: Regular maintenance prevents expensive problems
- Bundle services: Some vets offer wellness packages
What NOT to Skimp On
- Breeder quality: Cheap puppies from backyard breeders often have health issues that cost more long-term
- Grooming: Neglected coats lead to painful matting and skin problems
- Dental care: Dental disease affects overall health
- Preventive healthcare: Vaccinations, flea/tick prevention are essential
Red Flags: When Price is Too Low
Be cautious of Cavoodles priced significantly below market rate ($3,000 or less). Common issues:
- Puppy farms: Mass breeding with no health testing
- No health guarantee: You’re on your own if problems arise
- No vaccinations or microchipping: Hidden costs you’ll pay
- No breeder support: No one to help when you have questions
- Misrepresented breed: May not be a true Cavoodle
- Health problems: Inherited conditions surface later
A $3,000 puppy with $10,000 in vet bills costs more than a $6,000 puppy from a health-tested line.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Cavoodle cost in Australia 2026?
Cavoodle puppies from reputable breeders typically cost $4,500-$7,000 for Mini Cavoodles and $5,500-$8,000 for Toy Cavoodles. Prices vary by colour, location, and breeder reputation. Add $1,000-2,000 for first-year setup and veterinary costs.
Why are Cavoodles so expensive?
High demand combined with responsible breeding practices. Good breeders invest in health testing ($500+ per parent), quality food, veterinary care, proper facilities, and time. Cavaliers also have smaller litters (3-5 puppies) than larger breeds. The price reflects the investment in producing healthy, well-socialised puppies.
Are Toy Cavoodles more expensive than Mini?
Yes, typically $500-1,500 more. Toy Cavoodles are harder to breed (smaller dogs, smaller litters) and in higher demand due to their compact size. This combination drives prices higher.
What are the ongoing costs of owning a Cavoodle?
Expect $200-350/month for food, grooming, pet insurance, and basic healthcare. This works out to $2,400-4,200/year. Add more for training, boarding, or if your dog develops health issues.
Is pet insurance worth it for Cavoodles?
Yes. Cavoodles can be prone to certain health conditions (heart issues from Cavalier heritage, eye problems, allergies). One serious illness or accident can cost $5,000-15,000+. Monthly premiums of $50-80 provide peace of mind and ensure you can always afford the best care.
Can I afford a Cavoodle on a budget?
Be realistic. You’ll need $5,000-7,000 minimum for puppy and first-year costs, plus $200+/month ongoing. If that’s a stretch, consider whether now is the right time. Dogs deserve owners who can afford their care – including unexpected vet bills.
The Bottom Line
A Cavoodle is a significant financial commitment – but one that brings years of companionship, love, and joy. Going in with realistic expectations helps you:
- Budget appropriately before bringing puppy home
- Provide proper care without financial stress
- Make decisions based on what’s best for your dog, not just cost
- Enjoy your Cavoodle without money worries
Key numbers to remember:
- Puppy price: $4,500-$8,000
- First year total: $6,000-$10,000
- Monthly ongoing: $200-$350
- Lifetime cost: $50,000-$70,000
If you can comfortably afford these costs, a Cavoodle will repay your investment many times over in unconditional love and companionship.
Related Resources
Ready to start preparing? Visit our Cavoodle Learning Centre for comprehensive guides:
- How to Prepare for a Cavoodle Puppy
- Cavoodle Puppy Checklist (Free PDF)
- Cavoodle Size Guide – Toy vs Mini vs Standard
- Cavoodle Feeding Guide
Written by Marine Ponchaut
Marine is the founder of WoofSpark in Cessnock, NSW. Having run a dog grooming business for 15+ years and groomed over 3,200 Cavoodles, Marine knows the real costs of Cavoodle ownership—not just the purchase price, but the ongoing investment.