​SunnySide Mini Doodles

About Cavapoos

What Is a Cavapoo?

A Cavapoo (also known as a Cavoodle) is a popular, heart-melting designer crossbreed offspring of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, which has long been a calm and loving companion dog to English Royalty, and the Miniature or Toy Poodle, which are known for their intelligence, happy nature, and curly non-shedding coats. This crossbreed is intentionally developed to combine the Cavalier’s affectionate, gentle temperament with the Poodle’s intelligence, trainability, and low-shedding coat.

Cavapoos are highly sought after due to their friendly personalities, adorable teddy bear appearance, and suitability for families, singles, and first time dog owners.

Cavapoo Size and Weight

The Cavapoo size can vary depending on whether the Poodle parent is a Toy or Mini, but they are generally classified as a petite to medium sized dog breed.

Height: Approximately 9-14 inches 

Weight: Typically 7-16 lbs

Due to Cavapoos being a mixed breed, their adult size cannot be guaranteed. Depending on the parents and other genetic factors, they can be slightly smaller or larger than this full grown. While we can give great guesstimates through parents and grandparents sizes from each line. Overall, Cavapoos remain compact and well suited for apartment or home living.

Cavapoo Energy Levels and Exercise Needs

Cavapoos are known for their moderate energy levels, making them highly adaptable to different lifestyles. 


  • Require around 30-60 minutes of daily exercise
  • Enjoy walks, playtime, and interactive games
  • Benefit from mental stimulation such as puzzle toys and training sessions


While playful and energetic, Cavapoos are not overly demanding. They balance activity with relaxation and are equally content going for a walk or snuggling on the couch. We like to refer them to a little velcro dog as they just want to love and be loved.

Cavapoo Temperament and Personality

The Cavapoo temperament is one of the breed’s most appealing traits. They are affectionate, people focused dogs that thrive on companionship.

Common personality characteristics include:


  • Extremely friendly and social
  • Loving and affectionate with family members
  • Gentle with children and other pets
  • Intelligent and eager to please


Because Cavapoos form strong bonds with their owners, they do best in homes where they are not left alone for long periods of time. Without adequate companionship, they may experience separation anxiety.

Cavapoo Coat Type, Shedding, Grooming & Colors

Cavapoos typically have a soft, wavy/curly coat, influenced by their Poodle genetics.


  • Coat texture ranges from loose waves to tighter curls depending on the generation.
  • Minimal to no shedding. 
  • Though no dog breed is 100% hypoallergenic, Cavapoos are often suitable for those with allergies.




Cavapoo Grooming Requirements:


  • Brushing: 3-4 times per week to prevent matting.
  • Professional grooming every 6-8 weeks.
  • Regular ear cleaning due to floppy ears.
  • Routine nail trimming and dental care.


Proper grooming is essential to maintain coat health and comfort.

Cavapoo Colors


  • Red
  • Red/White
  • Blenheim (Red/White Parti)
  • Cream/Apricot
  • Tri-Color
  • Phantom (Black/Tan)
  • Chocolate 
  • Sable
  • Merle


Cavapoo Intelligence and Trainability

Thanks to their Poodle lineage, Cavapoos are highly intelligent dogs and respond exceptionally well to training.


  • Quick learners with basic commands.
  • Thrive with positive reinforcement training.
  • Excel in obedience, agility, and trick training.
  • Benefit from consistency and gentle handling.


Their sensitive nature means harsh training methods should be avoided.

Cavapoo Lifespan

With responsible breeding, proper nutrition, and routine veterinary care, the average Cavapoo lifespan is about 12-15 years.

Ideal Home for a Cavapoo

Cavapoos are highly adaptable and thrive in a wide range of living environments, including:


  • Apartments and houses
  • Families with children
  • Multi pet households
  • Homes with first time dog owners


They do best when treated as true companions and included in daily activities.

Is a Cavapoo the Right Dog for You?

A Cavapoo may be the perfect choice if you are looking for:


  • A loving and affectionate companion dog.
  • A friendly, social breed with moderate energy.
  • A small to medium sized dog.
  • A highly trainable and intelligent breed.
  • A dog well suited for families or apartment living.


However, Cavapoos are not ideal for households where the dog will be left alone for extended periods of time or on a regular basis. 


Cavapoo Generations Explained

At this time, the most common Cavapoo generations are F1, F1b, F2, and Multigenerational Cavapoos.

F1 Cavapoo: An F1 Cavapoo is a 50/50 cross between a Cavalier King Charles and a Poodle.

F1b Cavapoo: is the result of crossing an F1 Cavapoo back to a Poodle. F1b Cavapoos are a mix of 25% Cavalier and 75% Poodle.

F2 Cavapoo: comes from crossing an F1 Cavapoo and another F1 Cavapoo. They are typically very close to 50% Cavalier and 50% Poodle. This generation can be tricky as some may shed more than others depending on which parent's genetics they have inherited.

Multigenerational (Multigen) Cavapoo: is the result of combining two of the above generations (ie an F1 bred to an F2 or an F1b bred to another F1b). Their percentages can be a mixture leaning towards either parent breed.