Are Cavapoos High Maintenance Dogs? Practical Advice for Prospective Owners

Cavapoos—adorable crosses between Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and Poodles—are famous for their affectionate personalities and cute, curly coats.

But many prospective owners wonder: “Are Cavapoos high maintenance dogs?”

The short answer: it depends. Cavapoos are generally friendly, adaptable, and relatively healthy, but their grooming, training, and social needs can make them more work than some other small breeds. Here’s a detailed breakdown.

Cavapoo Care: What to Expect

1. Grooming Requirements

Cavapoos often inherit a curly or wavy coat from their Poodle parent, which means regular brushing and occasional professional grooming are essential to prevent mats and tangles.

• Daily brushing: Recommended for wavy or curly coats. Helps reduce shedding and tangles.

• Professional grooming: Every 6–10 weeks, depending on coat type and your skill level.

• Bathing: Every 3–6 weeks, or as needed.

Practical Tip: Invest in a good slicker brush, comb, and detangling spray. Brushing while watching TV can turn grooming into a bonding activity rather than a chore.

2. Training and Socialization

Cavapoos are intelligent and eager to please, but they can also develop separation anxiety if left alone too long.

• Training time: 10–15 minutes per day for basic obedience, socialization, and trick training.

• Mental stimulation: Puzzle toys, scent games, and short walks help prevent boredom.

Pro Tip: Early socialization with people and other dogs can reduce behavior problems and make your Cavapoo easier to care for in the long term.

3. Exercise Needs

Despite their small size, Cavapoos are energetic and require daily walks and playtime.

• 20–40 minutes of moderate exercise per day is usually sufficient.

• Interactive play indoors can supplement outdoor activity, especially in bad weather.

Fun Fact: Many Cavapoos love learning tricks, which doubles as both mental and physical exercise.

4. Costs and Time Commitment

Time: Expect to spend roughly:

• 20–40 minutes per day on walks/exercise

• 10–15 minutes per day on training

• 5–10 minutes per day on brushing

Costs:

• Grooming: $50–$100 per session

• Food: $30–$60 per month, depending on size and diet

• Vet care: $200–$500 per year, plus preventive care and vaccinations

• Supplies: Leashes, toys, crate, bed, and grooming tools

Cavapoos are small, but their care requirements add up in both time and money.

Ways to Reduce Maintenance Without Compromising Health

1. Simplify Grooming:

   • Keep the coat short with regular trims if you don’t want daily brushing.

   • Use high-quality shampoos and conditioners to reduce tangles.

2. Interactive Toys:

   • Puzzle toys and treat-dispensing toys reduce boredom, preventing destructive behavior.

3. Scheduled Routines:

   • Consistent feeding, walks, and training sessions make daily care predictable and manageable.

4. Professional Help:

   • Periodic groomer visits and dog walkers can lighten your daily workload.

5. Health Prevention:

   • Regular vet checkups and dental care prevent expensive health issues later.

Key Insight: With proactive grooming, mental stimulation, and a consistent routine, Cavapoos can be managed without feeling “overly high maintenance.”

Final Thoughts

Cavapoos are not the lowest-maintenance breed, but they reward your time and care with loyalty, affection, and playful companionship. For prospective owners:

• Plan for grooming, training, and exercise routines.

• Budget for vet care, food, and grooming costs.

• Use practical strategies to reduce day-to-day maintenance.

With the right approach, Cavapoos can fit beautifully into busy households—and you’ll enjoy a loving, happy, and well-adjusted companion.