Our November Cavapoo F1b Litter Coat Color Prediction
If you’ve been following Libby’s journey, you might remember her previous litter full of adorable parti Cavapoos — those pups with big white patches and playful markings that made everyone swoon. This fall, Libby will hopefully be paired with Hendrick for a special F1b litter, and we expect a gorgeous twist on her typical colors. Here’s some info about the coat color genetics of our upcoming litter.
So, what exactly can families look forward to with this pairing? Here’s a peek at the science and a realistic prediction based on their color DNA.
What We Expect from Libby and Hendrick
Libby carries one copy of the piebald gene (Ssp), which gave her previous litters lots of bold parti pups when paired with a male carrying piebald too. Hendrick, however, is solid (SS), so this time, parti is off the table — true large white patches require two copies. Instead, their puppies may have tiny white accents like a chest spot, chin patch, or dipped toes — just enough to add a dash of character.
The big stars of this pairing will likely be deep, clear tan point coats, rich chocolate shades, and possibly a few merle patterns thanks to Hendrick’s merle gene. It’s a classic, elegant combination with just enough surprise to make each puppy feel unique.
Here’s our estimate of what might appear in this litter:
- Black-based coats with tan points: ~40%
- Solid black coats (little or no tan): ~20%
- Chocolate-based coats with tan points: ~30%
- Solid chocolate coats: ~10%
- Merle pattern: up to ~50% chance across the litter, though not all may show it visibly
- Minimal white markings: about 50% may have small white spots, but no full parti patterns
Nature loves surprises, but this gives you a realistic guide while you dream about your future companion.
Understanding Cavapoo Coat Color Genetics
Curious how we can predict this with such detail? It’s all in the genes. Here’s a friendly breakdown of the key DNA spots, or loci, that shape Cavapoo coat colors.
E Locus (E/e)
Controls whether black pigment is possible. An E/e dog can pass on black or allow red/yellow coloring. Both parents have E/e or Ee.
K Locus (kyky)
Decides if patterns like tan points can show through. kyky means patterns from the A Locus are allowed instead of being masked by dominant black.
A Locus (atat)
Sets the specific pattern. atat means clear tan points — classic black-and-tan or chocolate-and-tan.
B Locus (BB or bb)
Determines black versus chocolate pigment. Libby is BB (black), Hendrick is bb (chocolate). Puppies can inherit either base pigment.
D Locus (DD)
Controls dilution. DD means no lightened colors — so coats stay rich, not washed out to blue or lilac.
I Locus (II)
Affects color intensity. II means full, bold pigment.
S Locus (S or Ssp)
Controls white spotting. Libby is Ssp (one piebald gene) while Hendrick is SS (solid). Without two piebald genes, puppies can’t be full parti but may have minimal white spots.
M Locus (M/m)
This governs merle patterning. Hendrick is M/m, so he can pass merle to about half of the litter, though how it shows varies.
N Locus (NN)
Clear for related coat health traits. Both Libby and Hendrick are normal.
Why We Love Coat Color Genetics
At Storytail Dogs, color is a bonus, never the main goal. Health, temperament, and resilience come first. But knowing what colors are likely helps us set realistic expectations and helps families fall in love with both the look and the personality of their future puppy.
If you’re as fascinated by Cavapoo color genetics as we are, there’s always more to learn and enjoy. For a deeper dive into how coat color inheritance works in dogs generally, the American Kennel Club explains it well. If you’d like to see how breeders use DNA tests to understand these traits, Embark Veterinary breaks it down here. Curious about the beautiful merle pattern? VetStreet has a helpful guide explaining how it appears and what to know. And if you’d like to compare more Cavapoo shades, don’t miss our own Cavapoo Colors Guide.
Ready to see who’s available now or want to reserve a spot for one of Libby and Hendrick’s little ones? Check out our current puppies or get in touch through our contact form — we love helping families learn and find their perfect match.
Want to Meet Libby and Hendrick’s Puppies?
We can’t wait to welcome this litter and watch their colors and patterns blossom as they grow. If you’ve been dreaming about a Cavapoo with classic tan points, warm chocolate fur, or a subtle merle swirl, this is a pairing you’ll want to keep an eye on.
Explore our available puppies and sign up for updates. You can also reach out anytime through our contact form — we love helping families find the puppy that feels like their missing puzzle piece.
