Published Friday, November 17, 2023 by Elena R. in Popular Dogs
Cavapoos are one of the most popular companion pets for families with kids, singles, seniors, and everyone in between. Why? Because they're just as beautiful on the inside as they are on the outside. It's hard to find a Cavapoo with behavioral problems like aggression or snappiness. They're all about cuddles, playtime, and giggles.
If you’re new to the Cavapoo, you are in for a treat! This guide looks at every aspect of the Cavapoo’s temperament, from their behavior with children and adaptability to various lifestyles to their therapy dog qualities and potential issues.
Table of Contents
Brief Introduction to Cavapoos
Premier Pups Customer Photo of a sweet, cuddly Cavapoo
If you’re meeting the Cavapoo for the first time, here’s a brief introduction to this lovely pooch.
Cavapoos are a crossbreed, a designer dog breed that is achieved by crossing a purebred Mini or Toy Poodle with a purebred Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. They are sometimes called doodle dogs, Cavoodles, Cavadoodles, poodle mixes, or Poodle and Cavalier King Charles Spaniel mix pups. They're fairly new in the kingdom of dogs, but that doesn’t stop them from stealing the spotlight with every chance they get.
When breeders decided to create this new canine marvel, they had in mind one thing: to create a well-tempered, well-balanced dog with the same lovable features of the Poodle and Cavalier breeds. And so, the Cavapoo dog was born.
Though they don’t enjoy formal recognition from official breed registries like the American Kennel Club, Cavapoos are gaining more and more traction thanks to their agreeable nature.
RELATED: 10 Reasons why the Cavapoo is a Top Dog
Cavapoos with Kids
Premier Pups Customer Photo of a Capapoo cuddling with its best friend
Are Cavapoos good with kids?
Just like poodles and cavaliers, Cavapoos are renowned for their good nature and playful personality. They love kids, young and old. And kids are fond of them too because they’re entertaining.
RELATED: Cavapoos and Kids Guide
Toddlers
Premier Pups Customer Photo of an adorable Cavapoo sleeping in the arms of its human
Cavapoos and toddlers are a sight to see, especially when they cuddle and nap together. But, like all dog and child interactions, supervision is a must. Small dogs like the Cavapoo can be easily injured during rough play, and toddlers aren’t the gentlest. Toddlers can also easily be knocked over if the dog is into zoomies. Though the Cavapoo’s temperament is ideal for a family with toddlers, prior socialization is required to ensure playtimes are safe.
Neither Poodles nor Cavaliers are known to be snappy, reactive, or aggressive, and the Cavapoo is no different. Because they often lack aggression, families with young children prefer them.
Older Kids
Premier Pups Customer Photo of a playful Cavapoo
Cavapoos have something for everybody, and for older kids, it’s their playfulness and powerful bonding. It's true what they say about kids growing up with dogs. They learn about compassion, responsibility, and friendship. And the Cavapoo’s temperament is perfect for that job.
Cavapoos enjoy playing just as much as the next dog, but they have that little extra something that makes them perfect for multiple age groups. If their playmate entices them in a friendly chase, or picks them up for a cuddle, Cavapoos are all for it. They have a natural ability to match the energy in the room. That said, it is important to keep the dog’s best interest at heart and not force any type of interaction.
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Cavapoos with Strangers
Premier Pups Customer Photo of a well-behaved Cavapoo on a shopping spree
Thanks to their friendly, sociable nature, which they get from both of their parents, Cavapoos are the type of dogs that get along with just about everyone, from toddlers to next-door neighbors. They’re social butterflies who thrive in the center of attention. While some Cavapoos may be more reserved at first, others naturally jump at any chance to meet and greet new people. Their natural instincts tell them that everyone’s a friend, however, they do need to be socialized as puppies to ensure they come out of their cocoon and blossom.
RELATED: Mastering Puppy Socialization: Transform Your Pup into a Confident, Sociable Adult Dog
Cavapoos and Barking
Premier Pups Customer Photo of a Cavapoo seeking it's human's undivided attention
Are Cavapoos quiet?
No dog is completely silent. All dogs bark to a point, some more than others. But Cavapoos tend to be on the quieter side, which is why they make fantastic little apartment dogs. They enjoy a little alerting to the occasional visitor, or an enthusiastic attention-seeking bark every now and then, but other than that, they tend to be quieter than your average dog. This is not to say they won’t bark at unusual noises or when hearing other dogs bark. Barking is a dog’s form of communication. Cavapoos are just not that reactive.
RELATED: Top Cavapoo Facts
Cavapoo Temperament with Other Dogs and Pets
Premier Pups Customer Photo of two beautiful Cavapoos
Are Cavapoos good with cats?
As mentioned earlier, Cavapoos are a mix of Cavaliers and Toy or Mini Poodles, which are calm, good-natured dogs that don’t have a strong prey drive. The Cavapoos is the same, with an even lower prey drive.
Prey drive is the main culprit for dogs chasing cats, smaller dogs, or other smaller pets. And since the Cavapoo prey drive is almost non-existent, they tend to get along well even with cats.
Some Cavapoos may be shy or reserved around other dogs, but with early socialization, they can make best friends with any pet, big or small.
A great way to socialize a Cavapoo with other dogs and pets is to introduce them in their puppy stage. This ensures that their natural friendliness and sociability will shine through when they become adults.
RELATED: The Ultimate Guide to Training Your Cavapoo
Cavapoo as a First Dog
Premier Pups Customer Photo of a Cavapoo in its favorite sleeping spot
Are Cavapoos stubborn?
Cavapoos are quite easy to care for, but like all dogs, they do require some special attention. Though inexperienced owners can find raising or training a Cavapoo quite easy (because they are an eager-to-please dog breed), they should be prepared to do some research beforehand. Cavapoos need to be socialized and trained during puppyhood to let their good-natured personalities shine through. They need to be taught how to stay in place and remain calm during grooming; they need to learn how to interact with others, and how to behave in different situations. For this, inexperienced owners need to invest in puppy kindergarten or a professional trainer. The Cavapoo is not a stubborn breed.
RELATED: 15 Best Dog Breeds for First-Time Owners
Cavapoos and Seniors
Premier Pups Customer Photo of a lovely Cavapoo after its bath
Do Cavapoos like to cuddle?
One of our favorite things about Cavapoos is their ability to blend with their environment. Cavapoos can be both energetic and calm, depending on their surroundings. With a calm owner, they tend to be lap dogs who enjoy a relaxing evening on the couch where cuddles are plenty. With a more energetic owner, they can be the best adventure companions. For seniors and retirees, this means a companion that is both willing and able to thrive in a lifestyle that includes plenty of quiet evenings but also fun outings and long walks. They are not the most energetic dogs, but they can keep up when needed.
That said, caution is advised when it comes to too much exercise. If your Cavapoo appears to be tired or uncomfortable, it’s best to end the walk or outing activity, and return home where the dog can rest.
RELATED: 15 Dogs That Seniors Love
Cavapoo Therapy Dog Qualities
Premier Pups Customer Photo of an attentive, sweet-looking Cavapoo
For a dog to be trained for therapy work, it must have a few qualities. A calm temperament, good social skills, and that extra bit of something that allows a dog to sense when something is wrong. Intelligence is also required for this type of work, and luckily, Cavapoos fit that description too. The Cavapoo is an intelligent dog breed that has an innate ability to spread joy and comfort. Their gentle and empathetic temperament makes these lovey-dovey dogs ideal for providing emotional support. The Cavapoo personality is ideal for therapy work.
RELATED: Discover The World Of Therapy Dogs
Cavapoo Temperament Problems
Premier Pups Customer Photo of a cuddly Cavapoo under a blanket
While Cavapoos are generally known for their sunny disposition and affectionate ways, it’s important to understand that no breed is without its quirks. Cavapoo behavior problems are few and far between with separation anxiety and small dog syndrome being the most common.
RELATED: Top 10 Pros and Cons of Owning a Cavapoo
Separation Anxiety
Premier Pups Customer Photo of a Cavapoo working hard
Can Cavapoos be left alone?
One of the challenges these sweet dogs face is separation anxiety. They very much dislike being separated from their owners. A Cavapoo velcro dog bonds deeply with its humans and can suffer quite a bit when left alone for longer periods of time. And this can manifest in anxious behaviors, chewing, barking, and sad howls.
Taking steps to avoid separation anxiety is much easier than having to treat it. And for Cavapoos, this means early training to gain independence. Leave your Cavapoo pup alone for small periods of time and work with them daily during their puppyhood stage to ensure they can be comfortable alone.
RELATED: Can Cavapoos Be Left Alone?
Small Dog Syndrome
Premier Pups Customer Photo of a queen Cavapoo
Cavapoos, like all adorable small dogs, can fall victim to the infamous “small dog syndrome” - a big, often unruly personality in a small package. This is the result of being a tad too pampered and can lead any dog, no matter its temperament, to become stubborn and overly attached.
Velcro dogs are a real thing, and though the Cavapoo is a naturally well-behaved dog, it can turn unruly and stubborn with too much pampering. The Cavapoo puppies temperament is sweet, affectionate, and eager, which is why these bundles of joy often reach adulthood overly-spoiled by their owners.
RELATED: Tackling Cavapoo Puppy Behaviors: An Early Training Guide
Cavapoo Temperament Comparisons
Premier Pups Customer Photo of two gorgeous Cavapoos
Mini vs Toy Cavapoo Temperament
When it comes to the personality of the Cavapoo, size does play a role, especially when comparing the Toy and Mini varieties.
Mini Cavapoos, which are a blend of a Miniature Poodle with a Cavalier, then to bring a slightly more robust energy to the mix. They're playful, a bit more on the energetic size, and love a good game just as much as they enjoy a cuddle session.
Toy Cavapoos, which are a mix of a Toy Poodle and a Cavalier, often have a more delicate demeanor. They are the definition of lap dogs – loving, gentle, and perfectly content to spend hours snuggled up with their favorite human.
RELATED: Mini Cavapoos: A Complete Guide
Male vs Female Cavapoo Temperament
Just like it is with size, there are a few slight differences between males and females of the same breed, in this case the Cavapoo.
Male Cavapoos often exhibit a more laid-back, affectionate demeanor, always ready for a cuddle or a playful romp. They tend to wear their hearts on their sleeves, showing off their love and loyalty without hesitation. Female Cavapoos, on the other hand, can be a tad more independent and discerning. They love their snuggle time just as much as their male counterparts, but they might also cherish some alone time every now and then.
RELATED: Are Cavapoos Hypoallergenic?
F1 vs F1b Cavapoo Temperament
If this is your first time learning about the Cavapoo, you’ll come across some interesting new terms like F1 and F1b. These terms are used to describe a mixed-breed's generation. But what do these labels mean for the Cavapoo’s temperament?
F1 Cavapoos are the first generation of these sweet-loving dogs, a direct mix of a purebred Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a purebred Poodle. These puppies display a delightful blend of traits: the laid-back, affectionate nature of the Cavalier and the intelligence and playfulness of the Poodle.
The F1b Cavapoo has a little more Poodle in the mix. This cross is between an F1 Cavapoo and a purebred mini or toy Poodle. This usually means that F1b Cavapoos lean more towards the Poodle’s traits. They are a bit more hypoallergenic, possibly even more intelligent than their F1 counterparts, and slightly more energetic.
RELATED: What is the Difference between F1, F1B and F2 Mixed Breed Generations?
Final Thoughts
Premier Pups Customer Photo of an adorable Cavapoo sleeping in its favorite place
Whether it’s interacting with kids, adapting to life with senior owners, or fitting in with other pets, these charming dogs shine in every role. From playful minis to affectionate toys, each Cavapoo, with its unique temperament, promises delightful companionship.
Scroll down to see FAQs about the Cavapoo's temperament.
Elena R.
About The Author
Elena is a leading expert in the field of dog behavior, care, and training, with over a decade of experience in writing about dogs. As a published writer and lifelong dog enthusiast, Elena currently shares her home with three beloved canine companions. She is dedicated to staying up to date on the latest advancements in dog care and training, ensuring that her articles provide readers with accurate and valuable insights. With her extensive knowledge and passion for all things canine, Elena's contributions to the Premier Pups community offer both expertise and authority on a wide range of dog-related topics.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the temperament of a Cavapoo? Cavapoos are known for their sweet, affectionate nature. They're sociable, friendly, and incredibly loving, making them great companions for all types of families.
What are the downsides of Cavapoos? The main challenges with Cavapoos include potential separation anxiety, a tendency towards small dog syndrome if overly pampered, and the need for regular grooming due to their coat.
Do Cavapoos bark a lot? Cavapoos aren’t known as excessive barkers. They might alert you with a bark here and there, but they're generally not noisy dogs.
Is a Cavapoo a calm dog? Cavapoos often have a calm demeanor, especially when they're well-trained and socialized from a young age. They can be playful and energetic but also enjoy quiet, cuddly moments.
Are Cavapoos calmer than Cockapoos? Cavapoos tend to be a bit calmer than Cockapoos. They're more laid-back, whereas Cockapoos can be a tad more energetic.
Are Cavapoos difficult? Cavapoos aren't typically difficult. They're intelligent and eager to please, which makes training them a relatively smooth process.
Is a Cavapoo a good first dog? Absolutely! Their friendly nature and trainability make Cavapoos an excellent choice for first-time dog owners.
Can Cavapoos be left alone? Cavapoos can struggle with being alone for long periods. It’s best to gradually acclimate them to short periods of solitude and ensure they have plenty of stimulation.
Are Cavapoos happy? Cavapoos are generally joyful and happy dogs, especially when they're in a loving environment and receive enough attention and exercise.
Do Cavapoos pick favorite people? Cavapoos can sometimes show a special affinity towards one family member, but they're usually loving and affectionate with everyone in the household.
Are Cavapoos intelligent? Yes, Cavapoos are quite intelligent, inheriting their smarts from their Poodle ancestry, which makes them quick learners and great at problem-solving.
Do Cavapoos get jealous? Cavapoos can display signs of jealousy, especially if they feel they’re not getting enough attention. Consistent training and socialization can help manage this.
Are Cavapoos good with strangers? Cavapoos are typically friendly and welcoming with strangers, making them poor guard dogs but excellent greeters!
Is a Cavapoo a lap dog? Cavapoos can be perfect lap dogs. They love cuddling and often enjoy spending time snuggled up with their favorite humans.
Are Cavapoos stubborn? Cavapoos are generally not stubborn. They're known for their eagerness to please and cooperative nature. However, like any dog, they can have their moments, especially if not properly trained or if they develop 'small dog syndrome.'
Are Cavapoos aggressive? Aggression is not a common trait in Cavapoos. They are typically gentle and friendly. Proper socialization and training from a young age can ensure they maintain their amiable nature.
Do Cavapoos like to cuddle? Absolutely! Cavapoos are known for their affectionate and loving temperament. They cherish cuddle time and enjoy being close to their human companions, making them excellent snuggle buddies.
Are Cavapoos good with kids? Cavapoos are wonderful with kids. Their gentle and playful nature makes them great companions for children. As with any breed, supervision and teaching children how to interact with dogs safely is always important.
Can a Cavapoo be a good guard dog? Cavapoos are innately kind dogs with friendly, sociable personalities. Though they can certainly be trained for guard duties, their personality does not fit the role.
What age do Cavapoos calm down? Cavapoo puppies tend to be a bit more energetic than adult Cavapoos, being more eager to discover their surroundings and get into some mischief. Once the puppyhood period is over, around one or two years, the Cavapoo will start to come down. Some Cavapoos might start calming down earlier, around 6 months of age.
Can Cavapoos swim? Being a mix between a water retriever (poodle) and a hunter (cavalier), the Cavapoo has love for water written in its DNA. Cavapoos can swim.