Toy Cavapoo -A Bundle of Joy in a Petite Package
The companionship of a toy cavapoo plays a major role in your life. It increases the bonding between a human and their doodle so much that they spend more time caring for their dog than themselves.
However, in my over 10 years of experience as a small hobby breeder, I have observed that you need to properly care for your cavapoo toy to avoid many problems. Therefore, as an experienced dog breeder, I will discuss every aspect in this article, from the size of the toy miniature toy cavapoo to grooming and health issues based on my experience.
If you want complete information, here is everything you need about cute cavapoos.
What is a Toy Cavapoo?
A cavapoo bred from a cavalier, King Charles Spaniel, and a miniature poodle are toy cavapoo. They are often called Cavoodles or cavapoos. Cross-breeding these two pure breeds aimed to create a small, friendly, hypoallergenic dog.
Toy cavapoo puppies display characteristics of cavalier King Charles spaniels and toy poodles. From the cavalier King Charles Spaniel, they inherited a sweet, patient temperament. From the toy poodle, they get intelligence and low shedding.
Toy Cavapoo Size and Appearance
Toy cavapoos are a small dog breed. Their diminutive size is inherited from the toy poodle parent. Here are some key facts about their size:
- Height – Cavapoo puppies toy typically stand between 9 and 12 inches tall at the shoulder.
- Weight – These petite pups weigh 7-13 pounds when fully grown.
Regarding appearance, cavapoo toy poodles can vary significantly since they are cross-bred. However, they generally have a soft and silky, moderate-length coat. Common coat colors include black, brown, white, chestnut, caramel, and apricot.
Their faces usually have a rounded appearance with floppy ears. When groomed properly, they can have the cute teddy bear dog look that is popular amongst toy dog enthusiasts.
Full Grown Toy Cavapoo Size
When a toy poodle reaches adult size, it is considered fully grown. This is typically between 10-15 months old.
At full size, a toy cavapoo full-grown will measure about 9-12 inches tall and weigh anywhere from 7-13 pounds. However, some cavapoos may fall slightly outside these size ranges depending on their parents’ sizes.
Factors like nutrition and exercise can also affect a toy cava poo’s full adult size. Keeping your cavapoo at a healthy weight will ensure they stay within the standard toy size range.
Toy Cavapoo Temperament and Behavior
One of the reasons cavapoo toys make such excellent companions is their sweet, loving temperament. They get this friendly nature from both the cavalier and poodle lineage.
Toy cava puppies are often described as:
- Affectionate
- Gentle
- Playful
- Patient
- Intelligent
They thrive on being with people and forming close bonds with their families. Toy poodles, when socialized appropriately, are friendly towards children and other animals.
These little dogs are obedient when trained with positive reinforcement methods. They pick up commands quickly, thanks to the poodle influence.
While lively and energetic at times, toy miniature cavapoos are also content with a good cuddle session on your lap. Since cavapoo toy poodles do not need a lot of outdoor activity, they are well-suited as apartment pets. Still, they should be taken on daily walks and have plenty of indoor playtime.
Are Toy Cavapoos Hypoallergenic?
Cavapoos are a famous hybrid breed partly because they tend to shed less hair and dander, making them less likely to trigger allergies.
However, there are no 100% hypoallergenic dogs. The amount of shedding and allergens produced can vary from one cavapoo to the next based on which parent they favor more.
Cavapoos typically shed minimally and are more hypoallergenic, which makes them easier to live with for people with allergies. However, each person’s reaction can be different depending on their sensitivity.
Grooming Requirements
Miniature cavapoo toys have moderately high grooming requirements. To prevent matted and tangled fur, a cavapoo’s coat needs brushing two or three times weekly.
Most owners choose to have their cavapoo clipped into a puppy cut by a professional groomer every six to eight weeks. Brushing a cava poo’s coat two to three times a week helps keep its fur short and easy to care for.
Trim the hair around the feet, ears, and eyes in between full haircuts. Cavapoos require regular tooth brushing and nail trims to maintain health and hygiene. Checking and cleaning their floppy ears weekly is also important.
Putting in the time to properly care for a cavapoo toy’s coat will keep them looking cute and cuddly. Their pampered poodle lineage means they love trips to the dog salon.
Health Issues in Toy Cavapoos
As with any dog breed, miniature Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Poodle mixes may be susceptible to particular medical issues, notably as they age. Here are some common health issues to be aware of:
- Ear Infections – Floppy ears trap moisture, which can lead to infections.
- Luxating Patellas – Trick knees are common in small dogs. Surgery may be required in severe cases.
- Heart Disease – Middle-aged cavapoos can develop heart issues like mitral valve disease.
- Cataracts – Older cavapoos may get cataracts, which can potentially impair vision.
There are also concerns around hydrocephalus in the cavalier King Charles spaniel breed. Ask the breeder if the cavapoo’s parents have been health screened.
With regular vet checkups, a high-quality diet, and proper preventative care, toy poodles can live a relatively healthy life of 10-15 years.
Finding a Toy Cavapoo Puppy
The popularity of cavapoo toy poodles has resulted in many breeders offering cavapoo puppies. It is very important to locate a cavapoo breeder with a good reputation to obtain a healthy and properly socialized puppy.
Avoid pet stores and websites selling cavapoo puppies. Cavapoos frequently originate from unethical breeders such as puppy mills or backyard breeders that do not perform health tests on the parent dogs.
Instead, look for small hobby breeders that do genetic and health testing. You should plan to see the breeding facility and meet the puppy in person to confirm that the living conditions are hygienic and indicate responsible breeding practices.
A well-bred toy puppies cavapoo puppy will cost $1,500 to $3,500. The breeder has invested substantially in health testing and responsible breeding practices.
Given the high demand, quality cavapoo breeders often have waitlists. But the wait is worth it to get a happy and healthy toy poodle companion!
Is a Toy Cavapoo the Right Dog For You?
The toy cavapoo is an excellent pet for many reasons. Cavapoos may not suit every family. Consider these factors to decide if a cavapoo puppy is right for you:
Good For:
- Singles or seniors looking for a small companion dog. The toy cavapoo size makes them a great apartment dog.
- Families with older children. Cute cavapoos get along great with kids but are too small and fragile for toddlers.
- People with mild dog allergies. While no dog is 100% non-allergenic, cavapoos tend to be low shedding.
- Novice owners. Cavapoo toy poodles are an intelligent breed that is easier to train than most small dogs.
- Owners want a low-energy dog. Toy poodles only require light exercise.
Not Ideal For:
- Families with very young or rambunctious children that might injure a small dog.
- Owners went frequently or for long hours. Miniature cavapoos crave companionship.
- People want a guard or watchdog. Cavapoos have a friendly nature and won’t bark at strangers.
- Owners unable to commit to regular grooming. Cavapoos need frequent coat care.
For the right owner, the cavapoo toy is a perfect pint-sized companion! Examine if the cava poo’s personality and care requirements align with your way of living before deciding to get one.
Toy Cavapoo vs. Toy Poodle
The toy cavapoo and poodle have similarities since they share half their DNA. But there are also differences between these popular small dog breeds:
Similarities and Differences:
Toy Poodle
- Slightly larger than a Cavapoo on average. Toy poodles typically weigh 10-15 pounds.
- Require more grooming maintenance. Poodles have curly, high-maintenance coats.
- Are often more energetic than cavapoos. Poodles tend to be active.
- Purebred poodles may have more health issues than cavapoo mixes.
- Shed less than cavapoos. Poodles are hypoallergenic.
Toy Cavapoo
- Weigh 10 pounds on average, a bit smaller than toy poodles.
- Have a wavy coat that requires brushing but less trimming.
- Are calmer than poodles. The cavalier influence makes them mellow.
- Cavapoo hybrid vigor results in fewer health issues.
- They may shed a small amount since they are not purebred poodles.
For most families, the toy puppies Cavapoo temperament wins over the higher-energy toy poodle.
Last Words
The toy cavapoo is the perfect small dog for many owners, combining the best traits of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Toy Poodle. Though tiny, these hybrid dogs have huge personalities and hearts. With minimal exercise needs, low-shedding coats, and naturally friendly dispositions, cavapoo toys make ideal companions. Their small stature belies their huge ability to provide endless love and entertainment. The toy poodle is truly a pint-sized powerhouse of a pet!
