Cavapoo Vs Cockapoo Best Breed Comparison and Helpful Guide

If you are considering adding a new dog to your family pack, you need to do the research! Find out everything you need to know before you buy or adopt a new Cavapoo vs Cockapoo.

Both the Cavapoo and Cockapoo are wildly popular Poodle Mix breed dogs. They have been popular for the last decade – and for Poodle Mix lovers are recognized as being amongst the best breeds around.

Cavapoos are whip smart and hypoallergenic. Cockapoos are beautiful with soft coats and a family friendly temperament.

Is one breed better than the other?

It can be easy to get caught in the details, and a little confused between these two breeds. They are similar! For two dogs that come from such unique parent breeds – the Cockapoo and the Cavapoo share so many positive traits in common!

Beyond their fluffy looks, kid-friendliness, and low shedding, however, the Cavapoo and Cockapoo are quite different breeds. 

This article describes each breed in detail and highlights the similarities and differences between the two. 

The History of Cavapoo

The Cavapoo is a mixed breed dog. It is a cross between a Poodle and Cavalier King Charles Spaniel dog breeds. Both purebred parent breeds have cult followings due to their top tier personalities, temperament, and super cute appearance.

A Cavapoo is also known as a Cavoodle. Most of the world does use the name Cavapoo. The breed goes by the Cavoodle name almost exclusively in Australia. The Cavapoo hybrid became desirable after being first intentionally bred in the late 1990s. 

Several breeders claim to have invented the breed. Although it is difficult to identify the first origin of the crossbreed, many believe it was an Australian breeder who first started intentionally mixing poodles and Cavalier King Charles Spaniel!

The combination of the lower shedding Poodle and the loyalty and desirable temperament of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, a mix of the two, seems like a great idea.

The breed is so popular now that it has transcended the brand of designer only dogs. You will find reputable, ethical breeders, but check shelters first. Rescue groups also exist to rehome Cavapoo and Poodle mix breeds that need a new family.

The Cavapoo is mostly known for being a family pet, which is sociable and very friendly. Their temperament makes them suitable for both children and adults of all ages.

The History of the Cockapoo

The Cockapoo is a typically small adorable dog. It is one of the original Poodle mix breeds that blew up in popularity since the early 2000s. Like the Cavapoo, a Cockapoo is not a purebred.

Don’t expect to be able to register either breed with the American Kennel Club.

The Cockapoo is a cross between a Poodle and a Cocker Spaniel. They are also called Cockapoodle or Cockerpoo. The Cockapoo name is by a very long shot, the most commonly used name worldwide.

Even though we sometimes think that Poodle mix dogs are a trend only in the last fifteen years, the origins of intentionally bred Cockapoos go much further back.

A Cockapoo is a designer dog whose line originates in the 1960s. Sure the first generation was an accident, but it was a happy accident! It resulted in a peculiar kind of intelligent puppies with a teddy-bear look that blew minds.

Puppy Comparison Between Cavapoos and Cockapoos

Before we chat about the differences between the Cavapoo and a Cockapoo, we need to spend some time acknowledging the common traits.

Some of these common traits are the most desirable and the reasons both breeds are so successful.

Both share common genes from the Poodle parent. 

• They both have a low tendency of shedding. 
• They are outgoing and friendly
• Both breeds are great with kids, even when they are puppies
• Both are socially dependant and require you to be around as much as possible when they are puppies
• Both breeds have a similar puppy coat (depending on generation)
• Both puppies can be toilet trained easily using positive reinforcement

As puppies, these breeds will be remarkably similar. Even food consumption is reasonably well the same for puppyhood. The types of food, shampoo, and puppy toys will be much the same.

They are both friendly and outgoing. Both the breeds are excellent family pets and good with children.

Since each has one parent who is different from the other, making them have a few differences in size, character, and health, so before choosing between the two breeds, it is essential to look at the differences between them as adult dogs.

Cavapoos Vs. Cockapoos Behaviors and Temperament 

When it comes to cockapoos, they tend to have a limitless source of energy. Therefore, they require and enjoy lots of playtimes and walks. Since they can go crazy at times with lots of energy, they adopted the name ‘crazy thirties‘ (a half an hour of chaos every single day).

Cockapoos are tremendously endearing and loving. This is because they are highly social dogs. Such social dogs do not cope particularly well with being left alone.

Cockapoos also seem to have separation problems. When you leave them alone, they get anxious. They also get overexcited and worried once you get home. Managing time away from your dog with behavior strategies and distractions will be vital.

For some dogs overcoming separation anxiety can be as simple as a pre-prepared frozen Kong as a distraction. Others will need training, or your lifestyle might require modification.

Dogs of this breed are also relatively vocal. Noisy barking can rear its head as an issue if a Cockapoo suffers social anxiety. Cockapoo owners commonly report problematic barking requiring behavior monitoring and modification through training.

Cavapoos are comparatively calmer

Although they have their moments, compared to the Cockapoo, Cavapoo is a little laid back and does not have the same level of overly vibrant energy.

They are not necessarily a low energy dog, but as a general comparison, your Cavapoo will be less of an energy powerhouse than a similarly sized Cockapoo. (After an even more chill dog? Some say the Cavachon is more chill than even a sedate older Cavapoo).

For lots of Cavapoos, one walk or 20-30 minutes of active play in a day is adequate for them. They easily create bonds between kids and get very close to their families.

Kids can tire out a Cavapoo to the point where some owners report their dog simply doesn’t need walks. They are ready to snooze at any opportunity!

Cavapoos are short in stature, and often bond well with smaller kids. They are gentle and typically love cuddling. 

Both Breeds Have One Training Quirk

A common struggle for Cavapoo and Cockapoo owners is that they may not respond well to training at an early age. It can be frustrating when your puppy always seems to be distracted! 

Many owners report that as puppies, their Cockapoos and Cavapoos have a short attention span. Treats and patience will overcome this!

If ease of training is your number one characteristic when selecting a dog breed, you might want to steer clear of both Cavapoos and Cockapoos. There is no significant difference in the ability to be trained between the two.

Appearance Differences between Cavapoos Vs Cockapoos 

Though the two breeds are considered hypoallergenic and with similar hair type coats, there are appearance differences when comparing Cavapoo Vs Cockapoo. 

A Cockapoo has longer ears compared to the Cavapoo. This trait occurs as a result of genes inherited from the Cocker Spaniel. 

Contrasting their noses, the Cockapoo has a more elongated nose giving it a loveable appearance. The Cavapoo inherits the skull shape and nose of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. Check out the form in the photo below.

As a result, the primary difference in appearance between Cavapoo and Cockapoo is the skull shape beneath the hair. The type of haircut you give your Cavapoo will be the primary factor modifying just how the dog will look.

Cavapoo Vs Cockapoo Colours

Cavapoos have a variety of colors. They can have one solid color or have a combination of two or three colors. Their coats are soft, short, and curly, which require regular grooming for them to remain soft and avoid matting.

Cavapoo Coat Colours

• White
• Black
• Tricolour (black, tan or brown, white)
• Apricot
• Cream
• Golden
• Sable
• Red
• Chocolate

Due to their hereditary genes from the parent poodle, the Cavapoo has low shedding. Therefore, making them suitable even for people with allergies. 

Cockapoos, on the other hand, have a single and long coat ranging from straight curls to loose curls. 

The colors of the layers may vary from beige, red to white, or combine either of these colors. However, the variety of colors is less prominent than in Cavapoos.

Cockapoos Vs Cavapoos Grooming

When it comes to grooming, the two breeds differ in complexity.

The Cavapoo has higher maintenance than the Cockapoo.

Groomers Compare Cockapoo and Cavapoo

I asked two professional dog groomers with plenty of Poodle Mix experience their thoughts on the coast of the two breeds.

“Both breeds have a fairly high maintenance coat that is prone to matting. Hygienic grooming is required every few weeks, most owners do this at home. Eyes, paws, and around the tail.”

“Both breeds require a thorough groom and shampoo every 5-6 weeks to keep the coat healthy. Owners that skip a quick daily brush see knotting of the coat. This is an annoying problem for both breeds. I find knotting worse in Cavapoos.”

“The Cockapoo has a coat that is thinner compared to that of a Cavapoo. This makes deep knots more annoying to deal with, but easier to prevent by brushing out at home every few days with a slicker comb.” 

Ask The Groomers: Which Breed Is Easier to Groom?

I asked both groomers, which is easier to groom when comparing the Cavapoo Vs Cockapoo.

Both said that the Cockapoo is more straightforward to groom than the Cavapoo. The Cavapoo has tricker grooming problems over time.

Size Comparison Between a Cockapoo and a Cavapoo

Since the parents of the Cavapoo, the Poodle, and the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel are typically small, then you expect a Cavapoo to be small or medium in size. 

This will depend on the Poodle parent’s size. Poodle range from Toy to medium, to the largest Standard size Poodle 

Cavapoos are mostly small dogs that stand around 9 to 14 inches (22-36 centimeters) at the shoulder. Expect a weight range from 8-25 pounds (3.5-11.5 kilograms).

Cockapoos are produced in four various size categories, depending on the size of the poodle parent. That is: 

• The Teacup Cockapoo weighs less than 7 pounds (3 kilograms) and has a height of not more than 10 inches (25 centimeters)
• The Toy Cockapoo has a sturdier body and can have a height of more than 10 inches (25 centimeters plus)
• The Mini Cockapoo, whose height ranges between 11 to 14 inches (28-36 centimeters) and weighs about 13 to 18 pounds. (6-9 kilograms)
• A Standard Cockapoo can weigh above 19 pounds (9 kilograms) and attain a height of more than 15 inches (40 centimeters)

Temperament Comparison of Cavapoo Vs Cockapoo

Both breeds can be brimming with energy and get the zoomies. However, in general, Cavapoos are typically found to be more chilled or quiet than the Cockapoo breed. 

Cavapoos are good with kids and can make fantastic family dogs. They also build robust bonds with all people and easily get attached even to strangers.

Cavapoos are known to be loving and sweet. They are known for getting along with children and other dogs. Many cat owners report that they have been able to introduce Cavapoos to cats successfully (and others report a Cockapoo and Cat rivalry). This sweet personality you can make even better through proper training and positive reinforcement. 

Cockapoos are a delightful breed but prepare for a whirlwind of energy. Cockapoos tend to have relatively higher energy compared to a Cavapoo. An inadequate term to describe their behavior would be “crazy.” Highly energetic, zest for life, excitable are better terms to frame the typical temperament of a Cockapoo.

Like Cavapoos, the Cockapoo is endearing and loving. Many owners and breeders report that Cockapoos are comparatively much more vocal. This means more barking.

If you can accommodate the energy, a Cockapoo is well known to make wonderful family pets as they are great with children.

Are Cavapoos and Cockapoos Apartment Friendly?

Both the Cockapoos and the Cavapoos are apartment friendly. 

Their size is a massive positive that makes apartment life appropriate. They are well suited as primarily indoor dogs.

Mental enrichment or brain training to prevent boredom is likely to be required. Given that Cockapoos can be a bit hyper, planning some puzzles or indoor dog games can help prevent issues.

Both breeds will require exercise as they have energy levels of significance. The Cockapoo is well known for zooming around excitedly, so they are great in apartments but don’t expect dead silence.

Both dogs can bark, and Cockapoos are often vocal.

Are Cockapoos and Cavapoos Okay With Allergies

When it comes to pet allergies, it is something that many people across the globe experience. Some people sneeze, break out in hives, or feel ill when they spend time with dogs. It’s a harsh condition for a dog lover! 

About 11% of humans have pet-related allergies.

Allergy is not caused just by the hair – these allergies can result from many things, such as pet saliva, hair, or any other substances. To avoid these kinds of allergies, you should get a pet that does not shed as much of these substances.

No dog is truly hypoallergenic, but the Cockapoo and Cavapoo come close.

The complications and allergic reactions will happen to you when there is contact with dander or proteins found in dog saliva. A low to non-shedding down will typically reduce the volume of allergy-inducing dander present.

Cavapoos and Cockapoos often purchased to be hypoallergenic dog breeds. 

This reputation as an allergy-friendly breed is because the genetics inherited from the Poodle is typically low to no shedding. If dog hair is what you are allergic to, then these two breeds are the best for you. 

Cavapoos Health and Feeding

Any hybrid dog will have a unique situation where you need to be aware of possible health problems affecting both parent breeds. The Poodle, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, and Cocker Spaniel are generally healthy dogs. 

Among the common health issues Cavapoos suffer from include: 

• Slipping knees

• Congenital heart attacks could result from blood leaking into the heart from the vessels.

• Progressive retinal atrophy

Cavapoos will stack on the weight if overfed. Obesity is a prevalent problem among dogs in the United States. Over 50% of dogs are overweight! (NYTimes) What a huge problem.

Overfeeding can result in heart problems. To prevent this weight gain, ensure your Cavapoo gets play sessions and adequate exercise

Cavapoo Ear Problems

It is also essential to regularly check pests and debris in the ear, and wash them as instructed by your Vet. Other Poodle mix breeds like the Labradoodle also have ear problems.

Cavapoo Diet and Teeth Problems

As these dog breeds are predisposed to dental problems, brush their teeth every other day. Just like humans Cavapoos and Cockapoos get two sets of teeth! 

When it comes to feeding your dog, use a diet that you formulate and monitor to the needs small to medium-sized dog breeds, and one that contains high levels of energy. 

Cavapoos tend to gain weight very fast when they are overfed. Therefore, you should maintain a regular feeding program and limit the sum of treats.

Just as with other breeds, Cavapoos diet changes as they mature from being a puppy to adulthood. To maintain a good and healthy diet for your dog, get recommendations from your vet. 

Cockapoos Health and Feeding

If you are considering having a Cockapoo, then it is essential to know the health risks that are common with these breeds. 

• Cataracts:
  • An eye condition that causes imperviousness on the eye’s lens,
  • which results in reduced vision. 
  • It can be due to old age and can be excised or removed through surgery.
• Hip dysplasia:
  • HD is a condition where the thighbone does not fit well in the hip bone. 
  • Though some dogs will show signs of discomfort, for others, it can be hard to detect it since they do not show any symptoms. 
  • The condition is hereditary, so ask for the health clearance of the dog and the parents before adopting
• Allergies:
  • Cockapoos are prone to getting allergies from either food, dog shampoos, and other contact allergies. You can quickly treat these by avoiding the causes of allergies. 
• Ear infections: regularly clean your dog’s ears to prevent these infections. Other breeds like the Labradoodle also need Poodle Ear maintenance

When purchasing a Cockapoo breed, find a breeder with reputation, reviews, and genetic testing for your dog’s parents.

To avoid Cockapoo overfeeding, many owners divide the whole food for a day (calculated based on weight) into two servings. One for the morning, one for evening. The amount of food will depend on the age, activity level, and size of your dog.

The quality of food for your Cavapoo or Cockapoo is also crucial. If the food is of good quality, the better for the nourishment of your dog, when buying dog food, you can seek advice from your vet for the best recommendations.

Life Span Comparison Between Cockapoos and Cavapoos

When buying a dog pet, many choose a breed that has a high lifespan. Like all living creatures, dogs, too, have a finite lifespan, depending on the kind of breed. The parent breeds of both the Cockapoo and Cavapoo are known for their longevity.

A Cavapoo has a long life span of 10 to 16 years. However, various factors influencing how long they will live. 

One of the elements is diet, genetic health, and the general care you provide your Cavapoo. If the dog’s parents had health problems, the puppy is likely to inherit those conditions, thus reducing its lifespan. 

On the other hand, a Cockapoo has a long lifespan too. Small breeds tend to live for many years. A Cockapoo is estimated to live between 12 and 18 years. However, just like Cavapoos, their life expectancy is dependent on many factors. 

Cockapoo Vs Cavapoo Conclusions

In conclusion, comparing the two breeds, the cockapoos, and the Cavapoos, getting either of the kinds will depend on your situation. 

Both have many similarities, such as being people-friendly and loving and getting along with people of all ages. 

Both are suitable for families and can get along with other dogs.

Both can be non-shedding and allergy-friendly.

Cockapoos tend to have a little more zest for life than a Cavapoo. This excitement means more energy to burn every day. Factor this in if you have limited exercise time or live in a particularly small space.