Cavapoos: Gentle, Smart, and Unforgettable Companions

Cavapoo

June 5, 2025

Meet the Cavapoos, some of the most beloved “designer” dogs in America—a charming blend of Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Poodle. At Storytail Dogs, we know there’s more to this breed than just a cute face (although they certainly have that in spades). Cavapoos are affectionate, intelligent, and adaptable, making them ideal companions for families, individuals, or anyone craving a loyal little sidekick.

Whether you’re in a cozy city apartment or a sprawling countryside home, Cavapoos adapt beautifully to your rhythm. They thrive on attention, love a good cuddle, and seem to intuitively know when you need a little extra support. No wonder they’re often chosen as therapy and emotional support animals.

Key Takeaways

Cavapoos are a mix of Poodle and Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Small-to-medium size: typically 9–14 inches tall, 9–25 lbs
Hypoallergenic and low-shedding
Loving, friendly, and intelligent
Great for families, singles, seniors, and kids
Adaptable to apartment or house living

Cavapoos Pictures

We believe every Cavapoo tells a story. Here are a few of our recent pups living their best lives with their families.

Cavapoo Quick Facts

Height: 9–14 inches
Weight: 9–25 lbs
Life Expectancy: 12–15 years
Coat Types: Curly, Wavy, or Silky
Colors: Cream, Red, Apricot, Black, Tri-color, Phantom, and more
Shedding: Very low to none
Temperament: Affectionate, gentle, eager to please

A Little Cavapoos History

Cavapoos first gained popularity in Australia in the 1990s, part of a growing trend to create Poodle mixes for their hypoallergenic coats and charming personalities. The Cavapoo quickly stood out for its emotional sensitivity, social nature, and gentle temperament—qualities passed down from both parents.

At Storytail Dogs, we see these traits every day in our puppies. Their ability to connect deeply with humans makes them perfect candidates for therapy and support roles.

Cavapoo Temperament and Personality

Cavapoos are the kind of dog who make fast friends wherever they go. They love meeting new people, get along with other pets, and are endlessly patient with children. If you’re looking for a dog that won’t shy away from snuggles or story time, this is your breed.

They’re also incredibly in tune with their humans. Many of our Cavapoos have gone on to serve as therapy dogs or emotional support companions. That gentle nature paired with intelligence makes for a dog that’s not only cute, but truly helpful.

Are Cavapoos Good for Apartments?

Absolutely. Cavapoos are wonderfully adaptable. While they love yard time, they don’t need it the way some high-energy breeds do. A daily walk and a little indoor playtime go a long way. They’re generally calm indoors and love being wherever you are, whether that’s a tiny studio or a spacious family home.

Cavapoos Grooming and Maintenance

Cavapoo coats require regular grooming to stay mat-free and soft. Most need brushing 2–3 times a week, along with professional grooming every 6–8 weeks. Their coats range from tight curls to soft waves—often depending on whether they take more after the Poodle or the Cavalier.

Want to dive deeper? Read our Complete Cavapoo Grooming Guide.

Cavapoo Training and Intelligence

Thanks to their Poodle lineage, Cavapoos are smart and eager to please. This makes them highly trainable. Use positive reinforcement, stay consistent, and you’ll have a pup who knows all the tricks and maybe even brings you your slippers.

They’re especially well-suited for first-time dog owners. Many of our families are amazed at how quickly their Cavapoo learns house rules and routines.

Cavapoos Health Considerations

Cavapoos are generally healthy dogs, especially when bred with intention and care. At Storytail Dogs, we use extensive genetic testing and follow responsible breeding practices to help reduce the likelihood of inherited conditions like mitral valve disease or hip dysplasia.

Still, regular vet visits, proper diet, and lots of love go a long way in ensuring a long, happy life.

Why Choose Storytail Dogs?

At Storytail Dogs, we’re not just breeders. We’re social workers, educators, and dog lovers dedicated to the emotional well-being of both puppies and families. Our Cavapoos are raised in a home environment with kids, pets, and plenty of hands-on socialization.

We specialize in matching each puppy to the right home—not just based on looks, but on temperament, needs, and lifestyle. We conduct temperament testing and offer early training options, so your puppy is off to the best possible start.

We also offer Puppy Kindergarten for extended socialization and basic training. Learn more about our available puppies here.

How to Find Well-Trained Cavapoo Puppies

Bringing home a puppy isn’t just about finding the right look—it’s about finding the right foundation. A well-raised Cavapoo has already had their first lessons in the world: how to handle new sounds, new people, new places. And that kind of confidence starts with the breeder.

At Storytail Dogs, we raise our puppies in a real home, not a kennel. From day one, they’re introduced to crate training, grooming tools, household noises, and children of all ages. We also complete temperament evaluations to help match each puppy with the right family—not just the next one on the list.

Why Reputable Breeders Make All the Difference

It’s tempting to fall for a cute face and a low price. But here’s the truth: a good breeder invests in more than just appearances. They focus on health testing, early socialization, emotional development, and ongoing support.

Choosing a reputable breeder means choosing peace of mind. You’re not just buying a puppy—you’re joining a program that gives that puppy the best chance at thriving.

And if you’re looking for a Cavapoo with a head start? Our Puppy Kindergarten program offers extended socialization, crate and leash work, and continued support through the crucial early stages of development.

How Much Do Cavapoos Cost?

While you might see listings for “Cavapoos under $300,” it’s important to understand that ethical breeding comes with necessary costs. Genetic testing, high-quality food, vet care, socialization, and responsible practices all require significant investment.

Cheaper puppies often come with higher long-term costs due to poor health or behavioral issues. If you’re looking for a well-socialized, emotionally attuned companion, a little extra up front can save a lot down the road.

Understanding Cavapoos Generations: F1, F1B, and More

If you’ve ever found yourself lost in a swirl of letters like F1 or F1B while researching Cavapoos, you’re not alone. These generation labels help describe how a Cavapoo puppy was bred—and they can give you clues about coat type, allergy-friendliness, and personality tendencies.

Here’s a quick breakdown:

F1 Cavapoo (First Generation): A 50/50 mix of purebred Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and purebred Poodle. F1s often have the classic wavy Cavapoo coat and balanced traits from both parents.
F1B Cavapoo (Backcross): This is a mix of an F1 Cavapoo and a purebred Poodle. That gives you a puppy that’s about 75% Poodle, which often means curlier, more hypoallergenic coats—great for allergy-prone households.
F1BB Cavapoo: A mix of an F1B Cavapoo and another purebred Poodle. These pups usually have tight curls and are especially low-shedding, but may require more frequent grooming.
Multigenerational Cavapoo: Bred from two Cavapoos. This can give breeders more predictability in coat, size, and temperament—but it really depends on the quality of the breeding lines.

Still unsure which is best for you? We’re happy to chat about the differences and help you choose based on your lifestyle and allergy concerns.

Cavapoo Sizes: Toy vs Mini Cavapoo

Not all Cavapoos are the same size, and knowing what to expect can help you choose the best fit for your family and living space.

Toy Cavapoo: Typically 7–12 pounds and under 12 inches tall. These compact companions are perfect for apartment living or families who want a small, portable dog that fits in a tote and on a plane. Despite their size, they’re full of personality!
Mini Cavapoo: Usually 13–25 pounds and around 12–15 inches tall. Minis are still small enough to curl up in your lap, but big enough to enjoy outdoor adventures or keep up with kids.

The size often depends on the Poodle parent’s size—so it’s always a good idea to ask your breeder what to expect.

At Storytail Dogs, we specialize in the smaller end of the spectrum, focusing on Toy and petite Mini Cavapoos with calm, confident personalities. Want to see who’s available now? Take a peek at our current puppies.

Cavapoo FAQs

Are Cavapoos good for first-time dog owners?
Yes! Their gentle temperament, trainability, and love for human companionship make them a fantastic choice for first-timers.

Do Cavapoos bark a lot?
Generally, no. Cavapoos are moderate barkers. They’ll alert you if someone’s at the door, but they’re not yappy. With proper training and socialization, barking can be kept in check.

Are Cavapoos hypoallergenic?
They’re considered low-shedding and allergy-friendly, especially those with curlier Poodle-like coats. Still, no dog is completely hypoallergenic, so we recommend spending time with one first if you have sensitivities.

How big do Cavapoos get?
Most Cavapoos weigh between 9 to 25 pounds and stand 9 to 14 inches tall. Their final size often depends on the size of the Poodle parent.

Do Cavapoos have health problems?
Like all breeds, Cavapoos can inherit conditions. Common concerns include heart issues (like mitral valve disease), hip dysplasia, and eye conditions. Responsible breeding and regular vet care make a huge difference.

Cavapoos Pros and Cons

Pros:

Affectionate and loving
Highly trainable and intelligent
Great for families, singles, and seniors
Low shedding and allergy-friendly
Adaptable to most living environments

Cons:

Prone to separation anxiety if left alone too long
Require regular grooming and brushing
Need mental stimulation to avoid boredom
Can be pricey when bred ethically (but worth it!)

Choosing a Cavapoo on a Budget: Smarter Alternatives

If the price tag of an ethically bred Cavapoo feels out of reach, you’re not alone—but there are thoughtful alternatives that still prioritize the dog’s welfare and your long-term happiness:

Guardian Home Programs: Some ethical breeders (including us at Storytail Dogs) offer guardian opportunities where you raise a top-quality dog as your own, often at little to no cost, while remaining part of the breeding program. It’s a win-win if you’re nearby and meet certain criteria.
Adopt an Older Dog: Sometimes retired breeding dogs or older puppies who didn’t meet criteria for therapy work are available for a lower fee. They often come with some training and are past the puppy chewing phase.
Save Up for the Right Match: If you’re serious about a Cavapoo, waiting and saving might be the best route. A well-bred puppy is an investment that pays off in fewer vet bills, better temperament, and a lifelong companion.
Look into Local Rescues: While Cavapoos are less common in shelters, breed-specific rescues or small dog rescues do occasionally have Doodle mixes available. Just be sure to ask about health and temperament evaluations.

Cavapoo Temperament & Lifestyle Compatibility ★★★★☆

Friendliness with Children: ★★★★★
Cavapoos adore kids and are known for their gentle, patient nature. They’re typically careful around toddlers and playful with older children, making them a family favorite.

Friendliness with Other Dogs: ★★★★☆
They generally play well with others, especially when socialized early. A great companion for households with other dogs—or even cats.

Stranger Friendliness: ★★★★☆
Cavapoos love people, even the ones they’ve just met. They’re welcoming without being overbearing.

Ease of Training: ★★★★★
With smarts from the Poodle and the desire to please from the Cavalier, training is usually a breeze. Positive reinforcement works wonders.

Adaptability to Apartment Living: ★★★★★
Low-shedding, relatively quiet, and snuggly indoors? Check, check, and check. Perfect for city dwellers or suburban life.

Tolerance for Being Alone: ★★☆☆☆
Cavapoos are deeply bonded to their people and don’t like being alone for long. They can develop separation anxiety if left too often. A good fit for work-from-home families or households with regular companionship.

Exercise Needs: ★★★☆☆
They enjoy a daily walk and playtime, but don’t require hours of activity. Great for moderately active owners.

Grooming Requirements: ★★★★☆
Their coat is gorgeous, but it does need upkeep. Expect brushing several times a week and regular professional grooming.

Barking Level: ★★☆☆☆
Not big barkers. They’ll alert you to strangers or excitement, but they’re far from yappy—especially with training.

Ready to Meet Your Cavapoo?

If you’re looking for a dog with heart, smarts, and a touch of teddy bear charm, the Cavapoo might just be your perfect match. Browse our available puppies, or take our breed quiz to discover whether a Cavapoo or Maltipoo best fits your lifestyle.