1. How often should I groom my Cavapoo?

Cavapoos have soft, wavy or curly coats that are prone to matting. Daily brushing is ideal, especially around the ears, chest, and legs where knots form easily. Regular professional grooming every 6–8 weeks helps keep their coat manageable. Good nutrition also supports coat health. 

2. Do Cavapoos shed a lot?

Cavapoos are generally low-shedding thanks to their Poodle heritage, but they still lose some hair, especially when brushed. Shedding varies depending on coat type, wavier coats tend to shed less than straighter ones. Feeding a natural, additive-free diet like Poppy’s Picnic can help reduce excessive shedding and support healthy skin and coat.

3. How much exercise does a Cavapoo need each day?

Cavapoos need around 30 to 60 minutes of daily exercise. They enjoy walks, playtime, and short training sessions. Because they’re small but energetic, it’s important to balance physical activity with mental stimulation. Use food-based enrichment like a lick mat topped with Poppy’s Picnic raw meals to keep your Cavapoo happy and mentally engaged.

4. Are Cavapoos prone to health problems?

Cavapoos may inherit health issues from their Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Poodle parents, including mitral valve disease, patellar luxation, and ear infections. Regular vet check-ups, exercise, and a balanced raw diet like Poppy’s Picnic can help support their overall wellbeing.

5. What’s the average lifespan of a Cavapoo?

Cavapoos often live between 12 and 15 years. Their lifespan can be supported with high-quality nutrition, regular dental care, and consistent vet check-ups. Feeding a species-appropriate raw diet may help extend vitality into old age 

6. How often should I bathe my Cavapoo?

A bath every 4-6 weeks is usually enough for a Cavapoo, though you might need to wash them more often if they get muddy or have sensitive skin. Always use a gentle dog shampoo. Diet also plays a role. 

7. What is the best way to clean a Cavapoo’s ears?

Cavapoos’ floppy ears can trap moisture, leading to ear infections. Check and clean their ears weekly using a vet-recommended ear cleaner and cotton pads. Avoid over-cleaning, which can irritate the ear canal. Diet can also impact ear health, many Cavapoo owners see fewer infections after switching to a natural diet.

8. How do I know if my Cavapoo is overweight?

Cavapoos are small dogs and can easily gain weight. You should be able to feel their ribs without pressing too hard and see a defined waist from above. Use a portion-controlled diet and avoid excess treats. Poppy’s Picnic provides feeding guides by weight, helping you serve the right amount of fresh, nutritious food to maintain a healthy figure.

Independent trade organisation, UK Pet food, has worked with vets to create a useful sizeometer for dogs so it's easier to track your dog's weight. Download it here 

9. What are the best toys for Cavapoos?

Cavapoos love soft toys, squeaky plushes, interactive puzzles, and chewable rubber toys. They’re playful and clever, so toys that stimulate both body and mind are ideal. You can stuff a toy or puzzle feeder with air-dried Poppy’s Picnic treats to keep your Cavapoo entertained and mentally engaged during quiet time.

10. How can I keep my Cavapoo’s coat shiny and healthy?

Brush regularly to remove tangles and distribute natural oils. Use a slicker brush for curlier coats. Nutrition is key as essential fatty acids found in raw meat support skin and coat health.

11. Are Cavapoos good with children?

Yes, Cavapoos are affectionate, gentle, and playful, making them ideal companions for children. Their small size and friendly nature mean they typically get along well with kids, especially when socialised early. Always supervise young children to prevent accidental rough handling. Feeding routines using Poppy’s Picnic can also teach children how to care for pets, creating bonding moments around calm mealtimes.

12. Do Cavapoos get along with other dogs and pets?

Cavapoos are social and usually enjoy the company of other dogs and pets. Their friendly disposition helps them fit easily into multi-pet households, particularly when introduced gradually. Using high-value treats like Poppy’s Picnic air-dried nuggets during introductions can help reinforce positive interactions.

13. Are Cavapoos aggressive?

Cavapoos are rarely aggressive. They’re known for their sweet-natured, people-oriented personalities. If a Cavapoo shows signs of aggression, it’s often linked to fear, lack of socialisation, or pain. A calm routine, enrichment, and a balanced diet free can support emotional and physical balance.

14. Why does my Cavapoo chew everything?

Cavapoos love to chew, especially as puppies or when they’re bored. Chewing helps soothe teething pain or release energy. Offer a variety of safe chew toys and rotate them regularly. You can also freeze a portion of Poppy’s Picnic raw food in a rubber toy for a healthy, long-lasting distraction.

15. Why is my Cavapoo so clingy?

Cavapoos are companion dogs, bred to be close to their humans. Their clinginess is part of their charm, but it can lead to separation anxiety. Encourage independence by creating a relaxing routine, using puzzle feeders and practising short periods of alone time from an early age.

16. Can Cavapoos be left alone during the day?

Cavapoos prefer company and don’t enjoy being left alone for long periods. They can tolerate being alone for 3–4 hours if properly trained, but extended time alone may lead to anxiety or boredom. Offer food-based enrichment, such as a frozen Poppy’s Picnic treat-filled toy, before leaving to help them feel settled.

17. Do Cavapoos bark a lot?

Cavapoos can be vocal, especially if they’re excited, anxious, or seeking attention. Early training and consistent routines can help manage excessive barking. Feeding times with Poppy’s Picnic can become part of a calming daily schedule, helping to reduce overstimulation that might trigger barking.

18. Why is my Cavapoo digging up the garden?

Digging is natural for some Cavapoos, especially if they’re bored or anxious. Provide stimulation through walks, games, and puzzle toys. You can also redirect the behaviour by hiding small amounts of food in a sandpit or digging area to create a rewarding digging spot.

19. Are Cavapoos hyper?

Cavapoos have a lively, playful personality, especially as puppies. They need regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent them from becoming overly excitable. Balanced daily routines that include walks, short training sessions, and calming enrichment (like licking mats with Poppy’s Picnic) can help regulate their energy.

20. How can I calm down my Cavapoo?

Cavapoos respond well to gentle guidance and routine. Calming activities like sniff walks, chew toys, and food enrichment can settle them. Feeding meals on a slow feeder or lick mat with Poppy’s Picnic raw food encourages calm focus and reduces frantic mealtime behaviour.

21. Are Cavapoos easy to train?

Yes, Cavapoos are intelligent and eager to please, which makes them generally easy to train. They respond best to positive reinforcement, especially when sessions are short, fun, and food-reward based. Use small, tasty treats to keep them motivated and focused during training.

22. What’s the best age to start training a Cavapoo?

Training should begin as early as 8 weeks, the moment your Cavapoo puppy arrives home. Start with simple commands, toilet training, and socialisation. Since all Poppy’s Picnic ranges are suitable for puppies, you can safely use small pieces of raw food or treats as early training rewards.

23. How can I stop my Cavapoo from pulling on the lead?

Cavapoos can pull when excited, especially if they haven’t learned lead manners yet. Train loose-lead walking by stopping when they pull and rewarding when the lead is slack. Use high-value treats to reinforce walking calmly by your side.

24. Why won’t my Cavapoo come when called?

Poor recall is usually due to distraction or a lack of consistent training. Practise in quiet environments first, use a cheerful tone, and reward generously every time they come to you. Carry a pouch of Poppy’s Picnic treats to make coming back more rewarding than whatever’s caught their attention.

25. How do I toilet train a Cavapoo puppy?

Toilet training takes patience and routine. Take your Cavapoo out after meals, naps, and play. Always praise and reward them when they go in the right place. Poppy’s Picnic raw treats or a small piece of food can help reinforce the behaviour and make the learning process quicker.

26. How can I stop my Cavapoo from jumping up?

Jumping is common when Cavapoos greet people. Teach them to sit for attention instead. Ignore jumping and only offer attention when all four paws are on the ground. Reward calm greetings with a Poppy’s Picnic treat to reinforce polite behaviour.

27. What are the best training commands for a Cavapoo?

Start with key commands like sit, stay, come, leave it, and down. Cavapoos also benefit from teaching settle, wait, and off to encourage good manners. Keep sessions short and use food rewards (Poppy’s Picnic treats are ideal) for building reliable responses in a friendly, food-motivated breed.

28. Should I crate train my Cavapoo?

Crate training can help your Cavapoo feel secure and support toilet training. Introduce the crate gradually, using treats and meals inside to build positive associations. Serving Poppy’s Picnic raw food in the crate can help them settle and see it as a comforting, happy space.

29. How do I handle separation anxiety in my Cavapoo?

Cavapoos are people-oriented and may develop separation anxiety. Ease them into alone time slowly and avoid dramatic goodbyes. Provide enrichment such as a Kong to keep them busy and reduce stress when you’re not home.

30. How much mental stimulation does a Cavapoo need?

Cavapoos are clever and curious, needing daily mental exercise. This can include puzzle toys, training sessions, scent games, and foraging activities. Scatter a few Poppy’s Picnic air-dried nuggets in the garden or hide them around the house to give your Cavapoo a fun mental challenge.

31. Are Cavapoos prone to hip dysplasia?

Cavapoos are less prone to hip dysplasia than larger breeds, but it can still occur, particularly if inherited from the Cavalier side. Maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding excessive jumping in early puppyhood helps protect their joints. 

32. What are common allergies in Cavapoos?

Cavapoos can suffer from food sensitivities and environmental allergies. Common symptoms include itchy skin, ear infections, or upset digestion. Switching to a raw diet can help eliminate triggers

33. How often should I take my Cavapoo to the vet?

Healthy Cavapoos should visit the vet at least once a year for check-ups and vaccinations. Puppies, seniors, or dogs with known conditions may need more frequent visits. A stable, biologically appropriate diet like Poppy’s Picnic supports daily wellness and can help reduce the need for frequent medical visits due to preventable issues like skin flare-ups or digestive trouble.

34. What’s the best age to neuter or spay a Cavapoo?

Many vets recommend neutering or spaying Cavapoos between 6 and 12 months, but timing can vary depending on your dog’s development and size. Discuss this with your vet. Good nutrition pre and post-surgery is vital. Poppy’s Picnic raw meals provide the digestible protein and nutrients needed to support recovery.

35. Do Cavapoos get ear infections easily?

Yes, their floppy ears create a warm, moist environment that can trap debris and lead to infections. Regular weekly cleaning helps prevent problems

36. What are signs of heart problems in Cavapoos?

Cavapoos may inherit mitral valve disease from their Cavalier parent. Signs can include coughing, reduced energy, and laboured breathing. Early detection through regular vet visits is key. 

37. Are Cavapoos more prone to arthritis as they age?

Small breeds like Cavapoos can develop arthritis, especially if they’ve been overweight or had joint issues earlier in life. Help prevent it by keeping them active and trim. Poppy’s Picnic raw food can support joint health naturally with unprocessed proteins and healthy fats, without the fillers that contribute to weight gain.

38. What vaccinations does my Cavapoo need?

Core vaccines for Cavapoos include distemper, parvovirus, hepatitis, and leptospirosis. They may also need kennel cough and rabies depending on lifestyle. Keep a regular schedule with your vet. Good nutrition also supports immune response. Poppy’s Picnic meals provide natural vitamins and minerals to help keep your dog healthy

39. How can I care for my senior Cavapoo?

Senior Cavapoos need gentle daily exercise, regular vet check-ups, and a supportive diet to maintain energy and comfort. Their digestion may become more sensitive, so switching to a lighter portion of Poppy’s Picnic raw meals - moist, unprocessed, and easy on the stomach - can help keep them active and happy.

40. What’s the difference between Cavapoos and Cockapoos?

Cavapoos are a cross between a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a Poodle, while Cockapoos are a mix of Cocker Spaniel and Poodle. Cavapoos are typically smaller, calmer, and more cuddly, while Cockapoos are slightly more energetic. Both breeds benefit from structured routines and a fresh, raw diet like Poppy’s Picnic to support their unique personalities and nutritional needs.

41. Are Cavapoos good for first-time dog owners?

Yes, Cavapoos are an excellent choice for first-time owners. They’re affectionate, trainable, and eager to please, making them easier to manage than many high-energy or independent breeds. Their small size, friendly nature, and adaptable temperament make them a joy to live with, especially when supported by a consistent routine and nutritious raw food like Poppy’s Picnic.

42. Can Cavapoos live in flats or apartments?

Cavapoos adapt well to flat living as long as they get regular exercise and stimulation. Daily walks, play sessions, and indoor enrichment are essential. Because they don’t need a large garden to thrive, they’re a great fit for urban homes. Offering meals in puzzle feeders or licking mats helps burn mental energy in small spaces.

43. Do Cavapoos enjoy swimming?

Many Cavapoos enjoy paddling and playing in shallow water, though enthusiasm for swimming varies between individuals. Always supervise near deep water, as their small size means they can tire quickly. Swimming can be a fun way to exercise without stressing their joints, and a swim followed by a portion of Poppy’s Picnic makes for a balanced, satisfying outing.

44. Are Cavapoos suitable for people with allergies?

Cavapoos are often marketed as hypoallergenic, but no dog is entirely allergen-free. They do shed less than many breeds and produce less dander, which may be easier for some allergy sufferers. Regular grooming and feeding a raw diet like Poppy’s Picnic may help minimise allergic reactions.

45. Can Cavapoos be used as therapy or assistance dogs?

Yes, Cavapoos make wonderful therapy dogs. Their calm, affectionate temperament and small, manageable size make them ideal for providing comfort in schools, care homes, or hospitals. Their trainability and love of human interaction allow them to excel in structured environments. A stable diet like Poppy’s Picnic raw food supports steady energy and calm focus.

46. Do Cavapoos travel well?

Cavapoos generally travel well, especially if introduced to car journeys early. They enjoy being with their people and often settle quickly during travel. Use a secure crate or harness and bring familiar items, water, and their usual food. Packing some Poppy’s Picnic treats or a portion of their regular raw meal in a portable cooler helps maintain routine on the go.

47. What size crate is best for a Cavapoo?

Most Cavapoos are comfortable in a 24 to 30-inch crate, depending on their adult size. The crate should allow them to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Use it as a cosy retreat, not a punishment. Feeding Poppy’s Picnic raw meals in their crate builds a positive association and helps encourage calm behaviour.

48. How do Cavapoos handle hot weather?

Cavapoos can be sensitive to heat, especially those with thicker coats. Walk them early or late in the day during summer, provide access to shade and water, and avoid hot pavements. Frozen enrichment like lick mats with Poppy’s Picnic raw food or bone broth ice cubes can keep them cool and occupied during warmer days.

49. Are Cavapoos good hiking companions?

Cavapoos can be great hiking partners for short to moderate distances, depending on their size and fitness. They enjoy exploring and spending time with their owners. Take plenty of breaks, bring water, and avoid rough terrain. Light snacks like Poppy’s Picnic air-dried treats make excellent fuel for the trail without overloading their stomach.

50. Can Cavapoos be trained for agility or obedience competitions?

Yes, Cavapoos often excel in agility and obedience. Their intelligence and eagerness to please make them quick learners. Keep sessions short and rewarding. Use fun games, toys, and high-value treats like Poppy’s Picnic nuggets to build enthusiasm. Agility also helps keep Cavapoos mentally stimulated and physically fit.