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Cavapoo: temperament, health and care
Cavapoo: temperament, exercise and grooming needs, common health problems and who this dog suits.
This is general information for the UK. It is not veterinary or legal advice, and every animal is different. Speak to a vet about your pet's health. The Be Pet Wise app can also show rules for other countries.
At a glance
| Size | Small, about 5–10 kg |
|---|---|
| Typical lifespan | 12–15 years |
| Exercise | Moderate |
| Grooming | Wavy or curly coat: brush several times a week and regular grooming |
Temperament and who it suits
Affectionate, playful and people-focused.
Often suits: families and first-time owners.
Cavapoos can inherit the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel's heart disease and syringomyelia, so ask about both parents' health tests.
Health problems to know about
- Mitral valve heart disease
- Syringomyelia
- Progressive retinal atrophy
- Kneecap problems
Individuals vary. Ask breeders about health testing, and keep up with vet checks, vaccination and weight control.
Before you get a Cavapoo
- See the puppy with its mother, where it was born
- Ask about health tests on the parents for the conditions above
- Check it is microchipped and registered by eight weeks old
- Consider adopting: breed rescues and rehoming centres often have dogs of this breed looking for homes
See buying a puppy or kitten: Lucy's Law and your rights.
Care, law and costs
See our general guide to dogs for feeding, the law in the UK, what it costs and emergencies, and our guides to microchipping law and toxic foods and plants.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a Cavapoo live?
A Cavapoo typically lives 12–15 years. Individual health, diet and weight all matter.
How much exercise does a Cavapoo need?
Moderate.
What health problems are common in a Cavapoo?
Common concerns include mitral valve heart disease, syringomyelia, progressive retinal atrophy and kneecap problems. Ask breeders about health testing, and keep up with vet checks.
How much grooming does a Cavapoo need?
Wavy or curly coat: brush several times a week and regular grooming.
Who does a Cavapoo suit?
It often suits families and first-time owners. Cavapoos can inherit the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel's heart disease and syringomyelia, so ask about both parents' health tests.
Similar dogs
Sources
- The Royal Kennel Club: breed information and health schemes
- BSAVA: Microchipping legislation in the UK
- Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council: Lucy's Law
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Open Be Pet WiseBrowse all guidesReviewed 2026-09-23. General information for the UK, not veterinary or legal advice. See how we check.