Are Cavapoos AKC?

I don’t know about you, but I think miniature Poodles and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are two of the cutest dog breeds on the planet. And what do you get when you put them together? Well, the Cavapoo! This mixed-breed dog is getting more popular by the year, hotly in demand with would-be dog owners. 

are cavapoos akc
Are Cavapoos AKC? Why can’t they be registered?

Cavapoos are called a “designer dog” breed. A designer dog is a sought-after crossbreed of two purebred dogs. In the case of the Cavapoo, a Poodle (usually a miniature Poodle) mixed with the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. Occasionally, you may hear people call Cavapoos Cavoodles or Cavadoodles

So are Cavapoos AKC?

No, Cavapoos are not AKC. That means you cannot register them with the AKC (American Kennel Club). They aren’t purebred dogs, so they’re ineligible for that registration.

well-behaved Cavapoo in the car
The well-behaved Cavapoo is sitting in the car. (Image: Instagram/@ baileyboo_the_cavapoo)

Their parents, however, are purebred. In other words, the miniature Poodle and Cavalier King Charles Spaniel are purebred and may be AKC registered, but the Cavapoo they produce is not. 

What is the AKC? (Does It Even Matter?) 

The AKC is the American Kennel Club. Established in 1884, the AKC focuses exclusively on purebred dogs and their breed standards. Mixed-breed dogs, such as Cavapoos and other designer dogs, cannot be registered with the AKC. That is why Cavapoos aren’t AKC. 

cavapoo in the sun
A Cavapoo shines in the sun. So cute!

Is It Bad that Cavapoos Aren’t AKC?

No, it isn’t bad that Cavapoos aren’t AKC. Cavapoos have the advantage of combining some of the best features of two purebred dogs, the Poodle and the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. However, there are some advantages of having an AKC-registered dog, and you won’t be able to enjoy those if you have a Cavapoo. 

One popular perk of having a purebred dog that you can register with the AKC is entering your animal in exclusive agility contests and shows. You won’t have this opportunity with a Cavapoo. There are plenty of general dog events and shows for non purebreds fortunately.

Is a Purebred Dog Better Than a Cavapoo? 

No, a purebred dog isn’t necessarily a better choice of pet than a Cavapoo. Whether a Cavapoo or a purebred dog is right for you depends on your personal preferences and needs. Many Cavapoo owners find this designer dog combines many of the best characteristics of the Poodle and Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. 

fun loving puppy
Two fun loving puppies! Both the Maltipoo and Cavapoo LOVE being around people

Some dog experts and veterinarians say that mixed-breed dogs tend to be healthier than purebred dogs. They believe that mixed-breed dogs, unlike purebreds, have more variation and less inbreeding in their gene pools. 

Are Cavapoos Good Pets? 

Yes, Cavapoos are excellent pets. Their friendly and affectionate temperament makes them ideal for many families. They’re also extremely intelligent. After all, the Poodle is one of the world’s most intelligent dog breeds. With a Cavapoo, you will usually enjoy easy training. 

how to draw a cavapoo cartoon
How to draw a Cavapoo cartoon (DIY)

A Cavapoo is a great dog to add to your household if you have kids. This mixed-breed is patient and easygoing. Cavapoos are resilient and adaptable. If you’re a new dog owner, the Cavapoo may be a good choice. Of course, this all depends on your needs and lifestyle. 

Speak to a reputable Cavapoo breeder for more information on the Cavapoo and whether they think your home would be a good fit for this designer breed. 

Are Cavapoos Hypoallergenic? 

As a mixed-breed dog, there is never a guarantee of what combination of characteristics your Cavapoo will have. Some Cavapoos will take after their Poodle parent more, while others will have more of the qualities of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. 

fluffy cavapoo puppy with white chest looks at owner
Bicolor and Tricolour Cavapoo puppies have splashes of white and other shades. Cute!

Many people seek Cavapoos because they believe these dogs are always hypoallergenic. If this is you, beware. Yes, some Cavapoos are indeed hypoallergenic, but not all. It all depends on how much your Cavapoo has inherited a poodle coat. If you get a Cavapoo with a Poodle-type coat, it will probably be hypoallergenic. If its fur is more like a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, it won’t be. 

Are Cavapoos Expensive? 

If you’re like me, maybe you thought that Cavapoos must be more affordable to purchase than their purebred parents, the Poodle and Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. After all, Cavapoos aren’t AKC, while Poodles and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are. 

f1b cavapoo wavy coat sits on the grass
F1b wavy coat Cavapoo dogs are the most likely to be hypoallergenic

However, this is a mistaken assumption. Cavapoos are, in fact, surprisingly expensive. The high cost is partly because of their wild popularity. In some places, Cavapoos are more in-demand than purebred Poodles and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. 

Final Thoughts

Yes, it’s true that Cavapoos aren’t eligible for AKC registration. But this mixed-breed “designer” dog is one of the most popular dog choices for a reason. A Cavapoo is among the most reliable mixed breeds for a good-natured and intelligent canine companion.