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Cavapoo
Mixed breed from Australia
Breed overview
Reviewed · Database recordAbout the Cavapoo
The Cavapoo is a small mixed-breed dog, originating in Australia, that results from crossing a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel with a Poodle. It is not a purebred and its recognition status varies by registry. Cavapoos typically have a wavy or curly coat and are described as affectionate, intelligent, friendly, playful, gentle, and outgoing. Their estimated adult weight ranges from 5 to 11 kg, height from 23 to 36 cm, and lifespan from 10 to 15 years. These are modelled estimates, so individual dogs may vary. Cavapoos are often sought as companion animals, but specific health claims or working purposes are not documented in the supplied facts.
Quick facts
Cavapoo at a glance
Sizesmall
Breed groupMixed
OriginAustralia
Lifespan10–15 years
Male weight5–11 kilogram
Female weight5–11 kilogram
Male height23–36 centimetre
Female height23–36 centimetre
Origin and history
Where the breed comes from
The Cavapoo is a modern designer crossbreed, first intentionally developed in Australia in the 1990s. It was created by crossing a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel with a Poodle, with the aim of producing a friendly family companion that might have a low-shedding coat suitable for allergy sufferers. The breed's history is relatively short, and it is not recognized as a pure breed by major kennel clubs; recognition status varies by registry. Because the Cavapoo is a crossbreed, its traits can vary more than those of established purebreds, and its development is ongoing through selective breeding by various breeders.
Physical characteristics
Structured dataSize, build and coat
Female
5–11 kilogramAdult weight23–36 centimetreAdult heightCoat typesWavy, CurlyCoat colorsPendingRecognitionvaries by registryData methodai assisted draft
Temperament
Typical breed tendencies
Affectionateintelligentfriendlyplayfulgentleoutgoing
Breed tendencies are general guidance. Individual behavior depends on genetics, socialization, training, health and environment.
Exercise, training and maintenance
1–5 methodologyDaily care profile
Moderate compared with other breeds
Typically responsive to training
Moderate compared with other breeds
Lower shedding tendency
Family suitability
Home and household fit
Supervise every dog–child interaction.
Introductions and socialization still matter.
Exercise, enrichment and noise tolerance affect fit.
Climate suitability
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
A general morphology-based tendency. Individual dogs still require shade, shelter, water, acclimation and weather-appropriate activity. Method: climate-morphology-v1.
Health overview
Veterinary sources requiredHealth considerations
No Cavapoo-specific screening programme or peer-reviewed disorder-prevalence study is currently attached to this profile. This is not evidence that the breed has no health risks. Owners should use routine preventive veterinary care and discuss screening appropriate to the individual dog's history, examination and family line.
Veterinary disclaimer: This profile is educational and does not replace examination, diagnosis or treatment by a veterinarian.
Feeding overview
Nutrition and feeding
Research in progress
Reviewed feeding guidance will appear after an approved source is imported and editorially reviewed.
Decision support
Potential advantages and challenges
Potential advantages
- Typically responsive to consistent training.Supported by trainabilityScore: 4
- Can be a strong family match when socialized and supervised.Supported by childSuitability: 4
Potential challenges
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Growth chart
Cavapoo puppy growth
Modeled estimates
Open interactive chart From puppy weight to adult size
Compare male and female growth, check weight by age and estimate mature size.
Adult male weight5–11 kilogramAdult female weight5–11 kilogramGrowth modeladult-range-size-model-v1
Preview only. Open the complete chart to adjust age, current weight and measurement units.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions
What is the size and lifespan of a Cavapoo?
Based on modelled estimates, adult Cavapoos typically weigh between 5 and 11 kg and stand 23 to 36 cm tall at the shoulder. Their estimated lifespan is 10 to 15 years. These figures are estimates, so individual dogs may differ.
What is the temperament of a Cavapoo?
Cavapoos are described as affectionate, intelligent, friendly, playful, gentle, and outgoing. However, temperament can vary among individuals, and not every dog will display all these traits consistently.
How much exercise does a Cavapoo need?
The Cavapoo has an energy score of 3 out of 5, indicating a moderate activity level. They benefit from regular daily exercise such as walks and playtime, but individual needs may vary.
What are the grooming requirements for a Cavapoo?
Cavapoos have a wavy or curly coat and a grooming score of 3 out of 5, suggesting moderate grooming needs. They are reported to have low shedding (score 2 out of 5), but regular brushing and occasional professional grooming are typically recommended to prevent matting.
Is a Cavapoo suitable for families with children or other dogs?
Cavapoos have a child suitability score of 4 out of 5 and a dog compatibility score of 4 out of 5, indicating they generally get along well with children and other dogs. However, individual temperaments vary, and proper socialization is important.
Is a Cavapoo a good choice for apartment living?
Yes, Cavapoos have an apartment suitability score of 4 out of 5, suggesting they adapt well to apartment living provided they receive adequate exercise and mental stimulation.
Where did the Cavapoo originate?
The Cavapoo originated in Australia, where it was first intentionally developed in the 1990s as a cross between a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a Poodle.
Data transparency
✓ Published · VerifiedSources and review status
APIThe Dog API ↗The Dog API Terms of Service (effective 2023-07-01)
VETERINARY SOURCEWSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines and Toolkit ↗Copyright; factual citation and original summary only
Image source: The Dog API. Last reviewed 7/20/2026.