Cavapoo Full Grown: Size, Appearance, Price & More

The cavapoo is a charming and affectionate mixed breed dog created by crossing the Cavalier King Charles spaniel with a miniature or toy poodle. While cavapoos start out as small puppies, they do grow into fully mature adult dogs over time.

In this guide, we'll explore what to expect from a cavapoo at full grown size including their appearance, personality, health, care needs, and more.

Size at Full Grown

At full maturity between 12-18 months old, the average size range for a fully grown cavapoo is:

  • Height: 10-14 inches (24-36 cm)
  • Weight: 10-18 pounds (4.5-8 kg)

However, there is quite a bit of variability possible depending on whether the cavapoo favors the Cavalier King Charles spaniel parent or the poodle parent more in terms of size genetics. Some cavapoos end up larger or smaller than average.

Weight at Full Grown

Most cavapoos will reach their full adult weight between 12-18 months of age. Owners should expect their puppy to steadily gain around 1/2 pound per month until they hit their full weight potential.

Typical weights for a fully grown cavapoo include:

  • Small females: 10-14 lbs
  • Small males: 12-16 lbs
  • Medium females: 14-16 lbs
  • Medium males: 16-18 lbs

Appearance at Full Grown

In terms of appearance, cavapoos take on a variety of looks depending on their parentage. In general, fully grown cavapoos have these common appearance traits:

  • Soft, curly coat that is hypoallergenic and comes in a range of colors like gold, red, brown, black, etc.
  • Large, expressive eyes that are usually brown
  • Poodle-like snout and face shape
  • Longish ears that may stand up or droop depending on the genes
  • Compact, sturdy little body with short legs

Owners should be prepared for their cavapoo's coat to change texture as they mature. Puppy coats are softer while adult coats get curlier with age and seasonal shedding.

Personality at Full Grown

In terms of personality, fully grown cavapoos tend to retain their signature affectionate teddy bear qualities that owners love. However, some changes may occur as they reach maturity:

  • Independent thinking may increase as training is solidified
  • Separation anxiety lessens with exposure and consistency
  • Energy levels stabilize at a reasonable activity level indoors and out
  • Bonding with family solidifies into a calm yet playful companion
  • Stranger-friendliness depends on ongoing socialization

With proper guidance, most cavapoos become relaxed and well-behaved adult dogs that enjoy pleasing their owners through play, cuddles and adventures.

Price

The purchase price for a well-bred cavapoo from a reputable breeder typically ranges from $1000-$2500 depending on location and bloodline. Cavapoos in high demand breeding programs may even cost more.

It's important to only buy from breeders who health test parents, have a contract, offer ongoing support and prove their dogs' lineage. Always get referrals from cavapoo owners if possible.

Food/Feeding

At full size, cavapoos have moderate energy needs so all-life-stage dry kibble in measuring cups works well for meals. Standard feeding guidelines for an adult cavapoo include:

  • 1/2 to 1 cup of kibble, divided into 2 meals daily
  • Adjust amounts up or down based on weight and activity levels
  • Provide fresh, clean water at all times
  • Avoid foods high in fat, salt or additives

Healthy snacks can include bits of boiled chicken, green beans or carrot sticks to maintain a strong bite.

Lifespan

With excellent care including proper diet and grooming, the average lifespan of a cavapoo is 12-15 years. Some healthy cavapoo companions even live to be 17+ years old. Early screening for conditions can help maximize a long lifetime together.

Health at Full Grown

As adult dogs, cavapoos remain fairly robust. However, owners should be aware of potential health issues that may surface:

  • Mitral valve disease (common in Cavaliers)
  • Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) - common in poodles
  • Hip dysplasia, patellar luxation
  • Allergies, skin conditions due to coat
  • Dental disease if not regularly checked
  • Obesity if overfed or under-exercised

Pet insurance and preventive care including annual check-ups and dental cleanings are recommended for cavapoos as they age.

Care and Nutritional Needs at Full Grown

The following care guidelines help ensure cavapoos remain happy and healthy as adult dogs:

  • Brush coat 1-2 times weekly to minimize matting and shedding
  • Have groomer trim coat every 4-6 weeks as needed
  • Check ears and wipe clean weekly to prevent infection
  • Trim nails every 1-2 months, as needed
  • Brush teeth 2-3 times per week with pet toothpaste
  • Provide safe chew toys to minimize tartar buildup
  • Schedule annual vet check-ups

Costs Involved

Some of the costs owners can expect as their cavapoo reaches maturity include:

  • Pet insurance (highly recommended): $30-100 per month
  • Annual vet checkups: $150-300 per year
  • Food: $30-60 per month for a medium adult
  • Grooming every 4-6 weeks: $30-50 per session
  • Toys, supplies, occasional medications:
  • Training classes: $100-250 total spent over the dog's lifetime

Overall, expect to invest $1000-3000+ per year on average to provide lifetime care for a fully grown cavapoo.

Possible Behavioral Changes

As cavapoos settle into adulthood, some common behavioral shifts owners have observed include:

  • Decrease in hyper puppy energy is replaced with calmness
  • Improved focus and ability to settle during training
  • Increased independence may require less restrictive leadership styles
  • Asserting preferences more clearly through actions like barking or ignoring commands
  • Natural instinct to dig/chew emerges and should be redirected with toys

With age-appropriate exercise and mental stimulation, most cavapoos remain sweet tempered family companions.

Notable Characteristics

Some of the distinguishing qualities owners frequently praise in fully grown cavapoos include:

  • Unconditional affection for owners and trust in familiar people
  • Playful, friendly spirit enjoying interactive games and snuggles
  • Gentle nature as lap warmer for soothing comfort
  • Intelligence to learn new tricks for bonding fun
  • Adaptability to fit most lifestyles whether apartment or home with a yard
  • Undemanding exercise needs satisfied with 1-2 walks daily
  • Non-shedding, low-dander coat ideal for families with allergies
  • Compact size allowing freedom on furniture, cars and when traveling
  • Intuitive bond recognizing owners needs for affection and reassurance
  • Signature expressive face radiating charming personality

Frequently Asked Questions

Will my cavapoo still want to be with me as an adult?

In most cases, yes! Cavapoos are known for forming very strong bonds with their owners. As long as they receive regular positive attention, exercise and training, they will continue seeing you as their favorite person.

Will grooming be a big chore when they're full grown?

Grooming a cavapoo takes some commitment, but it doesn't have to be too time-consuming. With weekly brushing and monthly professional clipping, you can keep their Hypoallergenic coat neat and mat-free. These small dogs don't require as much grooming as a Standard Poodle.

Will their personality change when adult?

While a cavapoo puppy can be rambunctious, their core loving, friendly temperament generally remains the same as an adult. As training continues, they just mellow further into well-adjusted family companions. Prioritize socialization to keep them pleasant with all people and animals.

Any advice for the first year of adulthood?

Be patient as training progresses during an adjustment period. Give structure, mental stimulation and supervised playtime or else unwanted behaviors may emerge. Continue consistency with affection, rewards and boundaries. Early spay/neutering is best for their development. Have regular vet care to head off future concerns.

Conclusion

While they may only stay small, cavapoos mature into stable and devoted adult dogs that retain their loving natures. With proper care and guidance through the transition, their golden years can be filled with further adventures and cuddles side by side with owners who provide for their needs, health and well-being.

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