The Complete Cavoodle Guide: Everything You Need to Know

Complete cavoodle family guide - fluffy apricot cavoodle puppy

Cavoodles are Australia’s most popular designer breed, and for good reason. They’re affectionate, intelligent, and have that irresistible teddy bear look that makes everyone stop and smile.

🎯 Quick Answer

Cavoodles are a cross between Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and Poodles, bred for their affectionate nature and low-shedding coats. They come in three coat types (fleece, wool, hair), require professional grooming every 4-8 weeks, and need daily mental stimulation. The breed is prone to separation anxiety — prevention training should start from day one.

But Cavoodles aren’t the low-maintenance dogs many people expect. Their beautiful coats need regular grooming. Their intelligent minds need stimulation. Their affectionate nature can tip into separation anxiety if not managed.

This guide covers everything you need to know about owning a Cavoodle—from choosing a puppy to senior care. It’s based on our experience grooming over 450 Cavoodles and countless conversations with their owners.


Table of Contents

  1. 1. What Is a Cavoodle?
  2. 2. Cavoodle Generations Explained
  3. 3. Size and Appearance
  4. 4. Cavoodle Temperament
  5. 5. Choosing a Cavoodle Puppy
  6. 6. Bringing Your Cavoodle Home
  7. 7. Cavoodle Health
  8. 8. Cavoodle Coat Types and Grooming
  9. 9. Training Your Cavoodle
  10. 10. Exercise and Activity
  11. 11. Feeding and Nutrition
  12. 12. Common Behavioural Issues
  13. 13. Living with a Cavoodle
  14. 14. Cavoodle Costs
  15. 15. Frequently Asked Questions

💡 Marine’s Pro Tip

After grooming over 450 Cavoodles, I can spot coat type changes coming before owners notice. Around 6-8 months, that easy puppy coat transforms into the adult coat — often much curlier and more prone to matting. If your groomer mentions “coat change,” take it seriously and increase your brushing routine.


What Is a Cavoodle?

A Cavoodle (also called Cavapoo in some countries) is a cross between a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a Poodle. This combination was designed to create a dog with the Cavalier’s gentle, affectionate nature and the Poodle’s intelligence and low-shedding coat.

The Parent Breeds

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

  • Originally bred as companion dogs for royalty
  • Gentle, affectionate, eager to please
  • Prone to certain health conditions (heart issues, syringomyelia)
  • Moderate shedding, silky coat

Poodle (Toy or Miniature)

  • One of the most intelligent dog breeds
  • Athletic and trainable
  • Low-shedding, curly coat
  • Generally healthy with long lifespan

Why the Cross Works

The Cavoodle combines:

  • The Cavalier’s loving, calm temperament with the Poodle’s intelligence
  • The Poodle’s low-shedding coat with the Cavalier’s softer features
  • Moderate energy levels from both breeds
  • Adaptability to different living situations

💡 Marine’s Pro Tip

The Cavoodles who handle grooming best aren’t the calmest dogs — they’re the ones whose owners did daily handling exercises as puppies. Touch their ears, paws, and face every day, even just for 30 seconds. This single habit prevents 90% of grooming anxiety.

Brief History

Cavoodles originated in Australia in the 1990s, making them one of the earliest “designer breeds.” They were bred specifically as companion dogs suitable for people with mild allergies. Today, they’re Australia’s most popular crossbreed and increasingly popular worldwide.


Cavoodle Generations Explained

Not all Cavoodles are the same. The “generation” affects coat type, appearance, and predictability of traits.

Generation Chart

Generation Cross Genetic Mix What to Expect
F1 Cavalier × Poodle 50% each Most variation in appearance and coat
F1B F1 Cavoodle × Poodle 75% Poodle, 25% Cavalier Curlier coat, more predictable
F1BB F1B × Poodle 87.5% Poodle Very curly, most “hypoallergenic”
F2 F1 × F1 50% each Variable, can favour either parent
Multigen Cavoodle × Cavoodle Varies Most consistent traits

💡 Marine’s Pro Tip

In the salon, I see more Cavoodles with ear infections than any other breed. Their floppy ears trap moisture and debris. Weekly ear cleaning at home isn’t optional — it’s essential. Ask your vet or groomer to show you the proper technique.

Which Generation Should You Choose?

For allergy sufferers: F1B or F1BB generations have curlier, lower-shedding coats. But always spend time with the specific puppy before committing—individual reactions vary.

For the classic look: F1 or Multigen often have the soft, wavy fleece coat most people picture when they think “Cavoodle.”

For predictability: Multigen Cavoodles from established breeding programs offer the most consistent size, coat, and temperament.

Important: Generation affects grooming needs. The more Poodle in the mix, the curlier the coat and the more grooming required.

Read more: Cavoodle Coat Types Explained


Size and Appearance

Cavoodle Sizes

Size depends primarily on whether the Poodle parent was a Toy or Miniature.

Size Weight Height Poodle Parent
Toy Cavoodle 5-7kg Under 30cm Toy Poodle
Mini Cavoodle 7-10kg 30-35cm Miniature Poodle
Standard Cavoodle 10-14kg 35-40cm Larger Miniature or small Standard

Predicting adult size: At 16 weeks, your puppy is roughly half their adult weight. Ask your breeder for estimates based on the parents.

Common surprise: Many “Toy” Cavoodles end up larger than expected. Size predictions aren’t guarantees—genetics are complex.

Appearance

Body: Compact, well-proportioned, slightly longer than tall
Head: Round with a moderate muzzle, large expressive eyes
Ears: Long and floppy, set fairly low
Tail: Medium length, carried happily
Expression: Alert, friendly, often described as “teddy bear-like”

Coat Colours

Cavoodles come in many colours:

  • Gold/Apricot — Most common
  • Red — Deep rusty colour
  • Cream/White — Lighter shades
  • Black — Solid black
  • Chocolate/Brown — Various brown shades
  • Parti — Two or more colours
  • Phantom — Specific pattern with tan markings
  • Tricolour — Three colours (often black, white, and tan)

Colour can change as puppies mature. Some lighten, others deepen.


Cavoodle Temperament

The Good

Affectionate: Cavoodles bond deeply with their families. They want to be with you—on the couch, in bed, wherever you are.

Intelligent: They inherit the Poodle’s smarts, making them quick learners and responsive to training.

Friendly: Generally good with strangers, children, and other pets when properly socialised.

Adaptable: Happy in apartments or houses, with active families or quieter households.

Playful: Enjoy games and activities without being hyperactive.

Gentle: Usually patient and tolerant, good with children.

The Challenging

Prone to separation anxiety: The flip side of their affectionate nature. They can struggle when left alone.

Can be vocal: Some Cavoodles bark more than expected, especially when bored or anxious.

Stubborn moments: That Poodle intelligence sometimes means they know exactly what you want—and choose not to do it.

Sensitive: Harsh training methods don’t work. They respond to positive reinforcement.

Velcro dogs: They follow you everywhere. If you want an independent dog, a Cavoodle isn’t it.

Are Cavoodles Good Family Dogs?

Yes, with caveats:

Good for:

  • Families who can provide companionship
  • Homes where someone is present most of the day
  • Families with children (with supervision)
  • First-time dog owners willing to commit to grooming

Not ideal for:

  • People away from home 10+ hours daily
  • Those who want a truly independent dog
  • Anyone unwilling to maintain grooming routine
  • Families who can’t commit to training

Choosing a Cavoodle Puppy

Finding a Reputable Breeder

This is the most important decision you’ll make. A good breeder:

Health tests parents for:

  • Heart conditions (MVD) — Cavalier issue
  • Patella luxation — Both breeds
  • Eye conditions — Both breeds
  • Hip dysplasia — Less common but tested

Provides documentation:

  • Vaccination records
  • Worming history
  • Microchip details
  • Health testing certificates for parents
  • Contract with health guarantee

Raises puppies well:

  • Puppies stay with mum until 8 weeks minimum
  • Early socialisation and handling
  • Clean, healthy environment
  • Allows you to visit and see conditions

Asks you questions: Good breeders want to ensure their puppies go to suitable homes. If they don’t ask about your lifestyle, that’s a red flag.

Is transparent: Willing to show you parents, answer questions, and stay in contact after purchase.

Red Flags

  • No health testing or won’t show certificates
  • Puppies available immediately, always
  • Won’t let you visit
  • Multiple litters available at once
  • Significantly cheaper than other breeders
  • Pressure to decide quickly
  • Meet in a neutral location (not where puppies are raised)
  • No questions about your home situation

Rescue Cavoodles

Cavoodles do end up in rescue, though less commonly than some breeds. If adopting:

  • May have unknown history
  • Could have behavioural issues to work through
  • Often adults rather than puppies
  • Can make wonderful pets with patience

Check breed-specific rescues and general rescue organisations.

Cost

In Australia (2026):

  • Pet quality puppy: $3,500-$6,000
  • Breeding rights/show quality: Higher
  • Rescue adoption: $300-$800

Cheaper isn’t better with puppies. Low prices often indicate puppy mills, health testing shortcuts, or poor breeding practices.

Read more: Cavoodle Puppy Checklist


Bringing Your Cavoodle Home

Before Arrival

Supplies needed:

  • Crate appropriately sized
  • Bed and blankets
  • Food and water bowls (stainless steel)
  • Puppy food (same as breeder initially)
  • Collar with ID tag
  • Lead and harness
  • Enzymatic cleaner
  • Grooming supplies (slicker brush, comb, detangling spray)
  • Toys—chew toys, puzzle toys, soft toys

Puppy-proofing:

  • Secure electrical cords
  • Remove toxic plants
  • Block access to dangerous areas
  • Install baby gates
  • Move chemicals out of reach

First Day

  • Keep things calm—no parties or crowds
  • Show them toilet spot, food, water, bed
  • Let them explore one room at a time
  • Supervise constantly
  • Start crate introduction positively

First Week

  • Establish routine (feeding, toileting, sleep times)
  • Continue crate training
  • Begin handling exercises (touching paws, ears, mouth)
  • Limit visitors
  • Start separation practice (brief absences)
  • First vet visit (day 2-3)

First Month

  • Vaccination schedule continues
  • Socialisation (within vaccination limits)
  • House training in full swing
  • Basic training beginning (sit, name recognition)
  • Grooming handling practice
  • Building positive associations with everything

Read more: New Puppy Schedule


Cavoodle Health

Lifespan

Average: 12-15 years

Well-bred Cavoodles from health-tested parents typically enjoy long, healthy lives.

Common Health Conditions

Cavoodles can inherit conditions from either parent breed:

From the Cavalier side:

Mitral Valve Disease (MVD)

  • Progressive heart condition
  • Affects many Cavaliers, can pass to Cavoodles
  • Why heart testing in parents matters
  • Symptoms: coughing, exercise intolerance, breathing changes
  • Management: medication can help but not cure

Syringomyelia

  • Skull too small for brain, affecting spinal cord
  • Serious condition in Cavaliers
  • Less common in Cavoodles but possible
  • Symptoms: scratching at air near ears, neck pain
  • Requires specialist diagnosis

Luxating Patella

  • Kneecap slips out of place
  • Common in small breeds including both parents
  • Symptoms: skipping gait, holding leg up
  • Treatment: surgery for severe cases

From both breeds:

Ear Infections

  • Floppy ears trap moisture
  • Very common in Cavoodles
  • Prevention: weekly cleaning, keeping ears dry
  • Treatment: veterinary medication

Eye Conditions

  • Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
  • Cataracts
  • Why eye testing in parents matters

Allergies

  • Skin allergies (atopy)
  • Food allergies
  • Can manifest as skin issues, ear problems, digestive upset

Dental Issues

  • Small mouths, crowded teeth
  • Prone to dental disease
  • Regular dental care essential

Preventative Health Care

Vaccinations (Australian schedule):

  • 6-8 weeks: C3
  • 10-12 weeks: C5
  • 14-16 weeks: C5 booster
  • Annual: C5 booster (or as vet recommends)

Worming:

  • Every 2 weeks until 12 weeks
  • Monthly until 6 months
  • Every 3 months lifelong

Flea and tick prevention:

  • Monthly treatment from 8 weeks
  • Paralysis tick coverage essential in tick areas

Desexing:

  • Discuss timing with vet
  • Usually recommended around 6 months
  • Some vets recommend waiting longer for joint health

Regular vet checks:

  • Annual minimum
  • More frequent for seniors

Read more: Cavoodle Ear Infections | Cavoodle Allergies


Cavoodle Coat Types and Grooming

Grooming is the biggest ongoing commitment of Cavoodle ownership. Their low-shedding coats grow continuously and need regular maintenance.

The Three Coat Types

Fleece Coat (Most Common)

  • Soft, wavy, silky texture
  • Low shedding
  • Brush every 2-3 days
  • Professional groom every 6-8 weeks
  • Most forgiving of the coat types

Wool Coat (Curliest)

  • Tight curls, Poodle-like
  • Almost no shedding
  • Brush DAILY
  • Professional groom every 4-6 weeks
  • Mats very easily

Hair Coat (Rarest)

  • Straighter, Cavalier-like
  • Some shedding
  • Brush 2-3 times weekly
  • Professional groom every 8-10 weeks
  • Lowest maintenance

Read more: Cavoodle Coat Types Explained

Home Grooming Routine

Daily (wool coats) or every 2-3 days (fleece):

  1. 1. Apply detangling spray
  2. 2. Line brush entire body (brush from skin, not surface)
  3. 3. Comb through to verify no hidden mats
  4. 4. Check trouble spots: behind ears, armpits, groin, collar area

Weekly:

  • Ear check and clean
  • Eye area wipe (especially light colours)
  • Paw pad check

As needed:

  • Bath (every 3-4 weeks typically)
  • Always blow dry after bathing—never air dry

Professional Grooming

Frequency: Every 4-8 weeks depending on coat type and style

What’s included:

  • Full brush out
  • Bath and blow dry
  • Haircut/styling
  • Ear cleaning and plucking
  • Nail trim
  • Sanitary trim

Cost: $70-$120 per session in Australia

First groom: After final vaccination (around 16 weeks). Book a puppy introduction first.

Popular Haircut Styles

Style Description Maintenance
Puppy/Teddy Bear Even length all over, round face Medium
Summer Cut Short all over Low
Lamb Cut Short body, fluffy legs Medium-High
Asian Fusion Very round face, styled High

Read more: Cavoodle Haircut Styles | How Often to Groom a Cavoodle

Matting

The biggest grooming challenge. Mats form when loose hair tangles with growing coat.

Prevention:

  • Regular brushing (can’t skip days)
  • Proper technique (brush to skin, not surface)
  • Never air dry after bathing
  • Regular professional grooming

When mats happen:

  • Small mats: work out with detangling spray and patience
  • Large mats: professional grooming needed
  • Severe matting: shave down may be only humane option

Read more: Preventing Cavoodle Matting

Other Grooming Needs

Tear stains: Common in light-coloured Cavoodles. Daily wiping helps.

Read more: Cavoodle Tear Stains

Ear care: Weekly cleaning prevents infections.

Read more: Cavoodle Ear Cleaning


Training Your Cavoodle

Cavoodles are intelligent and eager to please, making them generally easy to train. But their sensitivity means approach matters.

Training Principles

Positive reinforcement only. Cavoodles don’t respond well to harsh corrections. Reward what you want, redirect what you don’t.

Keep it short. 5-10 minute sessions multiple times daily beat one long session.

Be consistent. Same words, same rules, everyone in the household.

Start early. Puppies are sponges. What they learn first sticks.

Essential Commands

  1. 1. Sit — Foundation for everything else
  2. 2. Come — Could save their life
  3. 3. Stay — Safety at doors and roads
  4. 4. Drop it/Leave it — They will pick up things they shouldn’t
  5. 5. Settle — A dog who can relax on cue goes anywhere

House Training

Cavoodles can be house trained successfully with consistency:

  • Take outside frequently (every 1-2 hours for young puppies)
  • Reward immediately when they go outside
  • Never punish accidents—just clean and move on
  • Enzymatic cleaner essential
  • Expect it to take 4-8 weeks for reliability

Read more: House Training Puppy Australia

Crate Training

Highly recommended for Cavoodles:

  • Provides security
  • Helps with house training
  • Creates safe space when you’re away
  • Must be done positively (never punishment)

Read more: Crate Training Your Cavoodle

Socialisation

Critical during the first 16 weeks:

  • Exposure to different people, places, sounds, surfaces
  • Positive experiences with handling (essential for grooming)
  • Meet friendly dogs (after vaccinations)
  • Puppy classes highly recommended

Ongoing Training

Training doesn’t stop at puppyhood:

  • Adolescence (6-18 months) brings testing of boundaries
  • Maintain skills with regular practice
  • Keep learning new things for mental stimulation

Exercise and Activity

Exercise Needs

Cavoodles are moderate-energy dogs. They need daily exercise but aren’t as demanding as high-energy breeds.

Puppies (under 6 months):

  • Short play sessions
  • No formal walks until vaccinated
  • 5 minutes of walking per month of age (rough guide)
  • Don’t over-exercise growing joints

Adults:

  • 30-60 minutes of exercise daily
  • One or two walks
  • Playtime in yard or indoors
  • Mental stimulation counts as exercise

Seniors:

  • Adjust to their pace
  • Shorter, gentler walks
  • Swimming is easy on joints

Types of Exercise

Walks: Daily walks provide physical exercise and mental stimulation from sniffing.

Play: Fetch, tug, chase games. Cavoodles usually love playing.

Swimming: Many Cavoodles enjoy water. Good low-impact exercise.

Dog parks: Once properly socialised and trained on recall. Not all dogs enjoy them.

Mental exercise: Training, puzzle feeders, snuffle mats. Tires them out as much as physical exercise.

Signs of Under-Exercise

  • Destructive behaviour
  • Excessive barking
  • Hyperactivity indoors
  • Difficulty settling
  • Weight gain

Signs of Over-Exercise

  • Limping or reluctance to walk
  • Excessive panting
  • Lying down during walks
  • Stiffness next day

Cavoodles will often keep going even when tired. It’s your job to enforce rest.


Feeding and Nutrition

How Much to Feed

Varies by size, age, activity level, and food type. General guidelines:

Puppies: Follow food packaging, divided into 3-4 meals, reducing to 2 meals around 6 months

Adults:

  • Toy Cavoodle: 1/2 – 3/4 cup per day
  • Mini Cavoodle: 3/4 – 1 cup per day
  • Standard Cavoodle: 1 – 1.5 cups per day

Adjust based on body condition—you should be able to feel ribs easily but not see them.

Food Types

Kibble (dry food):

  • Convenient and affordable
  • Good for dental health
  • Quality varies widely—check ingredients
  • Meat should be first ingredient

Wet food:

  • More palatable
  • Higher moisture content
  • Can be mixed with kibble
  • More expensive

Fresh/raw:

  • Growing in popularity
  • Requires research to balance properly
  • Commercial fresh foods (Lyka, Big Dog) simplify this
  • Discuss with your vet

What to Avoid

Toxic foods:

  • Chocolate
  • Grapes and raisins
  • Onion and garlic
  • Xylitol (artificial sweetener)
  • Macadamia nuts
  • Avocado

Other concerns:

  • Cooked bones (splinter risk)
  • Excessive fat
  • Salt in large amounts

Weight Management

Cavoodles gain weight easily. Extra weight:

  • Stresses joints (worsens patella issues)
  • Increases health risks
  • Shortens lifespan

Maintain healthy weight through portion control and regular exercise. Adjust food based on treats given during training.


Common Behavioural Issues

Separation Anxiety

The most common Cavoodle behaviour problem.

Signs:

  • Excessive barking/howling when alone
  • Destructive behaviour
  • Toileting inside (when house trained)
  • Following you everywhere
  • Distress when you prepare to leave

Prevention:

  • Practice separation from day one
  • Don’t create over-attachment
  • Make departures boring
  • Build independence

Treatment:

  • Gradual desensitisation
  • Management (daycare, dog walker)
  • Medication in severe cases
  • Professional behaviourist help

Read more: Cavoodle Separation Anxiety

Barking

Some Cavoodles are vocal. Common triggers:

  • Boredom
  • Anxiety
  • Alert barking (someone at door)
  • Attention seeking
  • Excitement

Solutions:

  • Address the cause (more exercise, reduce anxiety)
  • Teach “quiet” command
  • Don’t reward barking with attention
  • Provide mental stimulation

Read more: Puppy Barking Solutions

Biting/Mouthing

Normal in puppies, should reduce with age.

Management:

  • Redirect to appropriate toys
  • Yelp and withdraw when they bite too hard
  • Time outs for persistent biting
  • Never use physical punishment

Read more: Stop Puppy Biting

Resource Guarding

Some dogs guard food, toys, or sleeping spots.

Prevention:

  • Trade games (give something better in exchange)
  • Hand feed sometimes
  • Teach “drop it”
  • Don’t take things away without trading

Treatment: If serious, consult a professional. Punishment makes guarding worse.


Living with a Cavoodle

Apartment Living

Cavoodles can do well in apartments:

  • Small enough for limited space
  • Not excessive barkers (usually)
  • Moderate exercise needs

Considerations:

  • Need daily outdoor exercise
  • May need puppy pads for toilet emergencies
  • Neighbours affected by any barking
  • No yard for free play

Houses with Yards

Ideal for Cavoodles:

  • Space to play
  • Easy toilet access
  • Still need walked—yard isn’t enough exercise

Fencing: Must be secure. Cavoodles can squeeze through small gaps.

With Children

Generally excellent with kids:

  • Patient and gentle
  • Playful without being overwhelming
  • Sturdy enough for family life

Rules:

  • Always supervise young children and dogs
  • Teach kids how to interact appropriately
  • Dog needs space to retreat when tired
  • No teasing, pulling ears/tail, disturbing sleep

With Other Pets

Usually good with other animals when properly introduced:

  • Other dogs: Generally friendly, socialisation helps
  • Cats: Can live peacefully, especially if raised together
  • Small pets: Supervision needed, some have prey drive

Travel

Cavoodles can be good travel companions:

  • Small enough for many carriers
  • Adaptable to new environments
  • Crate training helps

Car travel: Use secured crate or harness. Never leave in hot car.

Air travel: Check airline requirements. May need health certificate.

Accommodation: Many places accept small dogs. Book pet-friendly in advance.

Senior Cavoodles

As they age (8+ years):

  • Exercise needs decrease
  • May develop health issues
  • Grooming may need to be gentler
  • More rest needed
  • Diet may need adjusting
  • Regular vet checks more important

Most Cavoodles remain loving companions well into their senior years.


Cavoodle Costs

Initial Costs

Item Cost Range
Puppy purchase $3,500-$6,000
Initial vet visit $100-$200
Vaccinations $150-$300
Desexing $300-$600
Microchipping (if not done) $50-$80
Initial supplies $300-$500
Total first year setup $4,500-$7,700

Ongoing Annual Costs

Item Cost Range
Food $600-$1,200
Professional grooming (6-8x) $500-$900
Vet check-ups $100-$200
Vaccinations $100-$200
Flea/tick/worm prevention $200-$400
Pet insurance (optional) $400-$1,000
Toys and supplies $100-$300
Total per year $2,000-$4,200

Unexpected Costs

  • Emergency vet visits: $500-$5,000+
  • Illness treatment: Varies widely
  • Behavioural training: $100-$300 per session
  • Boarding/pet sitting: $40-$80 per night

Pet Insurance

Consider pet insurance:

  • Covers unexpected illness and injury
  • Compare policies carefully
  • Pre-existing conditions excluded
  • Worth it for peace of mind

Frequently Asked Questions

General

Are Cavoodles hypoallergenic?
No dog is truly hypoallergenic. Cavoodles (especially wool coats) shed less, reducing allergens, but individual reactions vary. Spend time with a Cavoodle before committing if allergies are a concern.

How long do Cavoodles live?
12-15 years with good care and healthy genetics.

Are Cavoodles good for first-time owners?
Yes, with commitment. They’re forgiving of beginner mistakes, eager to please, and adaptable. The grooming commitment is the main challenge.

Do Cavoodles bark a lot?
It varies. Some are quiet, some are vocal. Training and meeting exercise/stimulation needs helps manage barking.

Grooming

How often do Cavoodles need grooming?
Professional grooming every 4-8 weeks depending on coat type. Home brushing every 1-3 days.

Can I groom my Cavoodle myself?
Basic brushing should be done at home. Full grooming (bathing, haircuts) requires skill and equipment most owners don’t have.

Why does my Cavoodle get matted so easily?
Cavoodle coats don’t shed normally—loose hair stays trapped. Without regular brushing, it tangles into mats.

Health

What health problems do Cavoodles have?
Potential issues include heart conditions (from Cavalier), ear infections, allergies, luxating patella, and eye conditions. Choose a breeder who health tests.

When should I desex my Cavoodle?
Discuss with your vet. Traditional recommendation is around 6 months, but some vets suggest waiting longer for joint health.

Behaviour

Do Cavoodles have separation anxiety?
Many do. It’s the most common behaviour issue in the breed. Prevention through early training is key.

Are Cavoodles easy to train?
Generally yes. They’re intelligent and eager to please. Positive reinforcement works best.

Can Cavoodles be left alone?
Adult Cavoodles can typically manage 4-6 hours alone. Longer requires a dog walker or daycare. Puppies need more frequent attention.

Practical

How big will my Cavoodle get?
Depends on parents. Toy: 5-7kg. Mini: 7-10kg. Standard: 10-14kg. Ask your breeder for estimates.

What do Cavoodles eat?
Quality dog food appropriate for their size. Can be kibble, wet, fresh, or raw. Avoid toxic human foods.

Are Cavoodles good with kids?
Usually excellent. Gentle, patient, and playful. Always supervise young children with any dog.


Is a Cavoodle Right for You?

Cavoodles Are Great If You:

  • Want an affectionate, loyal companion
  • Can provide daily companionship (or arrange for it)
  • Will commit to regular grooming
  • Have time for moderate daily exercise
  • Want a trainable, intelligent dog
  • Have a lifestyle that includes your dog

Cavoodles May Not Be Right If You:

  • Work long hours with no one home
  • Don’t want ongoing grooming commitment
  • Want a truly independent dog
  • Can’t afford regular professional grooming
  • Aren’t prepared for potential separation anxiety
  • Want a guard dog (they’re too friendly)

Final Thoughts

Cavoodles have earned their popularity. They’re genuinely wonderful dogs—affectionate, intelligent, adaptable, and endlessly endearing with that teddy bear face.

But they’re not the low-maintenance dogs many people assume. Their coats need regular care. Their intelligent minds need stimulation. Their loving nature needs your presence.

If you can provide what they need, a Cavoodle will give you years of loyal companionship, endless entertainment, and the kind of bond that makes dog ownership so rewarding.


More Cavoodle Resources

This guide provides an overview. For detailed information on specific topics, explore our complete Cavoodle resource library:

Getting Started:

Grooming:

Health:

Training & Behaviour:


About WoofSpark

We’re professional dog groomers in Cessnock, NSW, and Cavoodles are our specialty.

Our Cavoodle experience:

  • 450+ Cavoodles groomed
  • Every coat type, every style
  • Expert advice on coat care
  • Gentle puppy introductions

This guide is based on what we’ve learned from working with Cavoodles daily and talking to their owners about what works.

If you’re in the Hunter Valley area and have a Cavoodle (or are getting one), we’d love to meet them.

Book a Cavoodle groom →


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Publishing notes:

  1. 1. Upload to WordPress as cornerstone content
  2. 2. Set featured_media (high-quality Cavoodle image)
  3. 3. Update AIOSEO via MySQL (long-form optimisation)
  4. 4. Add table of contents plugin or manual anchors
  5. 5. Feature prominently on site (navigation, sidebar, footer)
  6. 6. This is the hub—ensure all supporting articles link back to it
Marine Ponchaut

Written by Marine Ponchaut

Marine is the founder of WoofSpark, a professional dog grooming salon in Cessnock, NSW. Since founding WoofSpark in 2019, she has groomed thousands of dogs and helped countless new puppy owners get started on the right foot.

More about Marine Ponchaut →

Cavoodles Are Our Specialty

We’ve groomed over 450 Cavoodles at WoofSpark. We know the breed, we know the coats, and we know how to make grooming a positive experience. Book your Cavoodle’s appointment or ask us anything.

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