Cavoodle Health Problems: What Every Owner Should Know

Cavoodles are generally healthy dogs with a good lifespan of 12-15 years. Their crossbreed status often gives them “hybrid vigour” – inheriting the best traits from both parent breeds while avoiding some breed-specific issues.

However, they’re not immune to health problems. Knowing what to watch for helps you catch issues early – and understanding inherited conditions helps you choose a reputable breeder in the first place.

This guide covers the most common Cavoodle health issues, warning signs to watch for, and what you can do to keep your Cavoodle healthy.

Inherited Health Conditions

Cavoodles can inherit health issues from both parent breeds. Reputable breeders test for these conditions and won’t breed affected dogs.

From Cavalier King Charles Spaniels

Mitral Valve Disease (MVD)

The most serious inherited condition. This heart disease causes the mitral valve to degenerate, leading to heart murmurs and eventually heart failure. Nearly all Cavaliers develop some degree of MVD if they live long enough.

• What to watch for: Coughing (especially at night), exercise intolerance, rapid breathing, reluctance to lie down flat
• Prevention: Buy from breeders who heart-test their Cavalier parents
• Management: Regular vet check-ups to catch early. Medication can manage symptoms for years

Syringomyelia (SM)

A serious neurological condition where fluid-filled cavities develop in the spinal cord, often linked to skull malformation. Can cause severe pain.

• What to watch for: Scratching at the air near the neck/ears (phantom scratching), sensitivity to touch around head/neck, yelping when touched, reluctance to be picked up
• Prevention: MRI screening of breeding dogs
• Management: Pain medication, surgery in severe cases

From Poodles

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

A group of genetic eye diseases that cause gradual blindness. The retina deteriorates over time.

• What to watch for: Night blindness (bumping into things in dim light), reluctance to go out at night, dilated pupils, eyes appearing more reflective
• Prevention: DNA testing of breeding dogs (prcd-PRA test)
• Management: No cure, but dogs adapt well to gradual vision loss

Hip Dysplasia

A malformation of the hip joint causing pain and mobility issues. More common in larger dogs but can affect any size.

• What to watch for: Bunny-hopping gait, difficulty getting up, reluctance to climb stairs, decreased activity
• Prevention: Hip scoring of breeding dogs, maintaining healthy weight
• Management: Weight management, joint supplements, anti-inflammatories, surgery in severe cases

Luxating Patella

The kneecap (patella) slips out of place. Common in small breeds and toy Poodles.

• What to watch for: Intermittent skipping or hopping, holding leg up briefly then walking normally, sudden yelping then seeming fine
• Prevention: Patella grading of breeding dogs
• Management: Mild cases need no treatment. Surgery for severe or painful cases

Why Breeder Choice Matters

A responsible breeder will:

• Provide health testing certificates for both parent dogs
• Heart test Cavalier parents annually
• DNA test for conditions like PRA
• Hip and patella score breeding dogs
• Be transparent about any health issues in their lines

If a breeder can’t provide health testing documentation, walk away. Saving money upfront often means higher vet bills later.

Common Day-to-Day Health Issues

Beyond inherited conditions, these are the health issues we see most commonly in Cavoodles through our grooming salon.

Ear Infections

Cavoodles have floppy ears and often hairy ear canals – the perfect environment for infections. This is probably the most common health issue we see.

Signs:

• Head shaking or tilting
• Scratching at ears
• Red or inflamed inner ear
• Brown or yellow discharge
• Unpleasant smell from ears
• Pain when ears are touched

Prevention:

• Dry ears thoroughly after swimming or bathing
• Regular ear cleaning (weekly to fortnightly)
• Keep hair trimmed around ear canal (your groomer can help)
• Check ears weekly for early signs

Treatment: Vet-prescribed ear drops. Don’t try to treat chronic infections with over-the-counter products – they may make things worse.

Skin Allergies and Itching

Cavoodles can be prone to allergies, causing itchy skin and coat problems.

Signs:

• Excessive scratching or licking
• Chewing at paws (staining them pink/brown)
• Hot spots (red, raw areas)
• Hair loss in patches
• Recurring ear infections
• Red, irritated skin (especially belly, armpits, paws)

Common causes:

• Environmental: Grass, pollen, dust mites
• Food: Often chicken, beef, dairy, wheat
• Flea allergy: Reaction to flea saliva
• Contact: Cleaning products, certain fabrics

What to do: See your vet to identify the cause. They may recommend elimination diets, allergy testing, or medications. Regular bathing with hypoallergenic shampoo can help manage environmental allergies.

Dental Disease

Small breeds are prone to dental problems. Cavoodles often have crowded teeth that trap food and plaque.

Signs:

• Bad breath
• Yellow or brown buildup on teeth
• Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
• Difficulty eating or dropping food
• Loose teeth
• Pawing at mouth

Prevention:

• Daily tooth brushing (or at least several times a week)
• Dental chews and toys
• Regular vet dental check-ups
• Professional dental cleaning when needed

Why it matters: Dental disease isn’t just about teeth – bacteria can enter the bloodstream and affect the heart, kidneys, and liver.

Eye Issues

Cavoodles can experience various eye problems due to their face shape and Cavalier heritage.

Common issues:

• Tear staining: Reddish-brown staining under eyes. Usually cosmetic but can indicate blocked tear ducts
• Dry eye: Inadequate tear production, causing discomfort and potential damage
• Cherry eye: Prolapsed third eyelid gland appearing as a red mass in the corner of the eye
• Cataracts: Clouding of the lens, more common in older dogs

Prevention:

• Keep hair trimmed away from eyes
• Clean around eyes daily
• See vet promptly if you notice changes in eye appearance or discharge

Gastrointestinal Issues

Cavoodles can have sensitive stomachs, leading to digestive upsets.

Signs:

• Vomiting or regurgitation
• Diarrhoea or soft stools
• Excessive gas
• Loss of appetite
• Eating grass excessively

Common causes:

• Dietary changes (always transition food slowly)
• Food sensitivities
• Eating something they shouldn’t
• Stress or anxiety
• Parasites

When to see the vet: Immediately if symptoms persist more than 24 hours, there’s blood present, your dog is lethargic, or they won’t drink water.

Weight Management

Obesity is one of the most common health issues we see – and one of the most preventable. Extra weight puts stress on joints, heart, and organs.

Healthy Weight Ranges

Cavoodle Type	Healthy Weight Range
Toy Cavoodle	5-7 kg
Mini Cavoodle	7-10 kg
Standard Cavoodle	10-12 kg

Body Condition Check

Numbers on a scale aren’t everything. Check your Cavoodle’s body condition:

• Ribs: Should be easily felt without pressing hard
• Waist: Should be visible when viewed from above
• Belly: Should tuck up when viewed from the side

If you can’t feel ribs without pressing, there’s no visible waist, or the belly is rounded – your Cavoodle is overweight.

Prevention

• Measure food – don’t guess portions
• Account for treats (should be less than 10% of daily calories)
• Regular exercise appropriate to their age
• Don’t use food as the only way to show love
• Regular weigh-ins at vet visits

Preventive Care Schedule

Prevention is always better (and cheaper) than treatment. Here’s what your Cavoodle needs:

Vaccinations

Age	Vaccination
6-8 weeks	First C3 (distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus)
10-12 weeks	Second C3
14-16 weeks	Third C3 + Kennel Cough (if needed)
Annual	C3 booster + Kennel Cough if in contact with other dogs

Parasite Prevention

• Heartworm: Monthly preventative (Heartgard, NexGard Spectra, etc.)
• Fleas and ticks: Monthly topical or oral treatment
• Intestinal worms: Every 3 months for adults (more frequently for puppies)

Regular Check-ups

• Puppies: Every 2-4 weeks until vaccination complete
• Adults: Annual health check and vaccination
• Seniors (7+): Twice-yearly check-ups recommended

When to See the Vet Urgently

Some symptoms require immediate veterinary attention:

• Difficulty breathing or persistent coughing
• Collapse or extreme weakness
• Seizures
• Suspected poisoning or eating something toxic
• Bloated or distended abdomen
• Inability to urinate or defecate
• Severe pain (crying, won’t move, aggressive when touched)
• Bleeding that won’t stop
• Trauma or suspected broken bones
• Eye injuries
• Vomiting or diarrhoea with blood
• Not eating or drinking for more than 24 hours

Trust your instincts. You know your dog. If something seems wrong, it’s always better to call your vet than wait and see.

Pet Insurance

Vet bills can add up quickly. A single emergency can cost thousands of dollars. Pet insurance provides peace of mind and helps you make medical decisions based on what’s best for your dog, not just what you can afford.

What to Look For

• Coverage for accidents AND illness
• Coverage for inherited/genetic conditions
• Annual benefit limit that covers major emergencies ($15,000+ recommended)
• Reasonable excess and reimbursement percentage
• No sub-limits on specific conditions

When to Get It

The best time is when your puppy is young and healthy. Pre-existing conditions are never covered, so getting insurance before any health issues are documented means maximum coverage.

Popular Australian options: PetSure, Bow Wow, Pet Insurance Australia, RSPCA Pet Insurance

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Cavoodles healthy dogs?

Generally yes. Cavoodles are considered a healthy crossbreed with good longevity (12-15 years). While they can inherit conditions from both parent breeds, crossbreeding often provides hybrid vigour. Choosing a reputable breeder who health tests their dogs significantly reduces inherited health risks.

What health tests should Cavoodle breeders do?

At minimum: Heart testing for Cavalier parents (annual), DNA testing for PRA (eye disease), and patella examination. Better breeders also do hip scoring and MRI screening for syringomyelia. Always ask to see certificates.

Why does my Cavoodle keep getting ear infections?

Floppy ears and hairy ear canals create warm, moist environments where bacteria and yeast thrive. Some Cavoodles are also prone to allergies, which can manifest as ear problems. Prevention includes regular cleaning, keeping ears dry, and having the hair inside ear canals trimmed by your groomer.

My Cavoodle is scratching constantly. What should I do?

Constant scratching usually indicates allergies, parasites, or a skin condition. Check for fleas first. If clear of fleas, see your vet – they can help identify whether it’s environmental allergies, food sensitivities, or something else. Don’t let scratching continue untreated as it can lead to skin infections.

At what age do Cavoodles start having health problems?

Day-to-day issues like ear infections and allergies can appear at any age. Inherited conditions like MVD typically develop in middle age (5+) or senior years. Keeping up with preventive care and regular vet checks helps catch problems early when they’re most treatable.

Is pet insurance worth it for Cavoodles?

Yes. While Cavoodles are generally healthy, any dog can have accidents or develop illness. A single emergency surgery can cost $5,000-$10,000+. Monthly premiums of $40-80 provide peace of mind and ensure you can always afford the best care for your dog.

The Bottom Line

Cavoodles are wonderful companions with generally good health. Most live long, happy lives with minimal health issues.

Your job as an owner is to:

• Choose a breeder who health tests their dogs
• Keep up with preventive care (vaccinations, parasite control, dental)
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Know what warning signs to watch for
• Have pet insurance for unexpected issues
• Build a relationship with a vet you trust

With proper care and attention, your Cavoodle should be by your side for many happy years.

Related Resources

For more Cavoodle care guidance, visit our Cavoodle Learning Centre. You might also find these guides helpful:

• Cavoodle Feeding Guide – Nutrition for healthy weight
• Cavoodle Grooming Guide – Coat and skin care
• How to Prepare for a Cavoodle Puppy – Choosing a breeder