Cavoodle Information

The Cavoodle is the result of cross breeding the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel & Toy or Miniature Poodle

Appearance

Many Cavoodle pups are born with long, soft floppy ears, large brows and a compact, round face – giving the dog an eternal puppy appearance. However, variability can occur amongst the pups. Although all are undoubtedly very cute, not all dogs will look alike. Variation amongst the litter is influenced by the genetic contribution of each parent so some pups will appear more Poodle-like, others more like a Cavalier.

Colours

Can range to anything from Solid black, White, Blenheim (chestnut and white), Tri-colour (black, white and tan), Gold, Red, Apricot and Ruby.

Height & Weight Range

Adults will range in height from 30-35 cm at the shoulders and 6-10kgs. The smaller sized adults will be the result of using the Toy poodle as the sire/dad.

Temperament

Cavoodles set out to bring out the best of the Cavalier and Poodle breeds together to produce an intelligent, compact and healthy little animal with a wonderful temperament.

So why choose to cross these particular breeds?

The Cavalier is one of Australia’s most popular purebred dogs, and rightly so. Deliberately bred as a companion dog, it has an adorable temperament and is gentle and compliant around children.

The Toy & Miniature Poodle is another popular small breed and is known for its intelligence and loyalty. Toy & Miniature Poodles are also known to have ‘neurotic’ tendencies, especially if over spoilt by their owners. However the crossbreed is likely to have this tendency diminished with the contribution of the Cavalier’s laid back temperament. Regardless, it is important to not spoil the dog excessively. Neither breed should exhibit any aggressive tendencies and as such should produce a very friendly crossbreed.

Maintenance

Regardless of the puppies appearance, the coat may shed and regular grooming is required. Those animals with a poodle-like coat will need brushing around three to four times a week, a cavalier coat perhaps only once a week. Clipping may be necessary three to four time a year. Poodle-like coats, whilst perhaps requiring clipping more often, are less inclined to shed as much as the Cavalier coats.

Health and lifespan

Owners can expect a healthy dog to be a member of the family for around 10-14 years. Each of the Cavalier and Poodle breeds are predisposed to certain health problems, particularly the Cavalier. However the Cavoodle is less likely to suffer such problems due to the benefits of ‘hybrid vigour’. Hybrids benefit from a more diverse genetic makeup than purebreds, and are often not susceptible to conditions which may afflict the parent breeds.

Ideal owners

This lovable little canine is suitable for all age groups and most lifestyles. Thanks to the influence from its parents, the Cavoodle is an intelligent dog, not as hyperactive as some other cross breeds and adores human companionship. Great for small homes with little or no yard, these dogs don’t require much exercise but will still benefit from a regular walk or run in an open space.