Teacup Cavapoo Full Grown: Size, Lifespan, Price & More

Elizabeth Craig

Dec 18, 2023

Teacup cavapoos are adorable little dogs, but how do they change as they reach full adulthood? In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about what teacup cavapoos are like when fully grown, including size, weight, appearance, personality, health concerns, care requirements, and more.

What is a Teacup Cavapoo?

A teacup cavapoo is a small mixed breed dog resulting from breeding a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a toy or miniature Poodle. "Teacup" simply refers to the very small size of these cavapoos, which are generally under 10 inches and 4 pounds fully grown.

Cavapoos are affectionate, low-shedding dogs known for being friendly and gentle. Their small size makes them suitable for apartment living. However, teacup cavapoos have special health and care needs due to their very tiny stature.

Size of a Teacup Cavapoo at Full Growth

As implied by the "teacup" label, these pups are extremely small even as adults. A fully grown teacup cavapoo will measure:

8-10 inches tall at the shoulder
8-12 inches in length from nose to tail

Their full adult weight usually ranges from 3-4 pounds, though exceptionally tiny dogs may max out closer to 2 pounds. This is well below the toy breed size standards.

Appearance of a Teacup Cavapoo at Full Maturity

By adulthood, a teacup cavapoo's distinctive curly or wavy coat will have fully developed. Colors commonly seen include:

Cream
Apricot
Red
Black and tan
Golden

Many have flecks or patches of different colors throughout their lush fur. Their faces will hold the adoring, affectionate expression typical of cavapoos, with soft brown or hazel eyes.

Personality of a Teacup Cavapoo at Full Growth

In terms of temperament, a fully matured teacup cavapoo remains as sweet, playful, and friendly as when younger. They bond closely with their family but are shy around strangers. Training and socialization are crucial to ensure good manners.

These small dogs have huge personalities! They enjoy cuddling, playing fetch or with toys, and going for walks. Be aware that their tiny size restricts energetic activities.

Price of a Teacup Cavapoo Puppy vs Full Grown Dog

Teacup cavapoo puppies command high prices due to their rarity, small sizes, and demand as purse dogs. Expect to pay anywhere from $2,500-$5,000 each from a responsible breeder.

Adopting an already grown teacup cavapoo could cost $1,500-$3,000, depending on age, health, and temperament. Rescue groups may have lower adoption fees.

Food and Feeding a Teacup Cavapoo at Full Size

As an adult, a typical teacup cavapoo will eat 1/4-1/2 cup of high-quality dry kibble divided into 2-3 meals daily. Always choose small bite-sized kibbles formulated for toy dogs.

Apart from kibble, most teacup cavapoos enjoy a few tablespoons of canned food, home-cooked meal, or raw diet per day as well. Consistent feeding times and portion sizes are best.

Average Lifespan of a Teacup Cavapoo

With responsible breeding and excellent care, the average lifespan of a teacup cavapoo is 12-15 years. However, these tiny dogs are prone to certain health issues that could potentially reduce their longevity.

Health Concerns for Teacup Cavapoos at Full Size

Due to their very small stature, teacup cavapoos are at higher risk for the following conditions:

Luxating patellas (slipped kneecaps)
Joint problems like hip dysplasia
Dental disease
Collapsed trachea
Eye issues
Hypoglycemia

Routine vet checkups are essential to monitor growth, weight, and prevent/treat any health problems.

Care and Nutrition Needs of a Fully Grown Teacup Cavapoo

Here are the special care requirements for fully grown teacup cavapoos:

Daily brushing to manage shedding and prevent mats
Regular dental care including brushing and professional cleanings
Nail trims every 1-2 months to avoid overgrowth
Frequent vet checks and vaccines
Smaller-sized accessories like collars, harnesses, crates
Low-calorie, high-quality nutrition in controlled portions
Indoor life with protected outdoor time due to injury risk

Monthly and Yearly Costs of Owning a Full-Grown Teacup Cavapoo

The costs of properly caring for an adult teacup cavapoo vary depending on location but average around these monthly expenses:

$100-200 on high-quality kibble, treats, dog products
$30-50 on grooming like brushing, nail trims, occasional baths
$50-100 towards medical expenses and insurance
$20-30 for toys, training aids, replacement collars/harnesses

Yearly costs average $1500-2500 when factoring in wellness exams, dental cleanings, unexpected vet bills, boarding, and other miscellaneous needs.

Possible Behavior Changes in a Teacup Cavapoo at Maturity

In general, teacup cavapoos will retain the friendly, gentle personalities they had as puppies. However, some dogs may exhibit subtle behavior differences as adults, such as:

Increased shyness around strangers and new environments
Protectiveness over their owner's affection and attention
Establishing themselves as pack leaders over other pets
Increased dominance or aggression if not properly socialized

Consistency, positive reinforcement training, and early socialization help minimize unwanted behaviors.

Signs That a Teacup Cavapoo Has Reached Full Maturity

A teacup cavapoo can be considered fully grown when these physical changes have occurred:

Adult teeth have fully replaced baby teeth
Growth plates in long bones have fused, around 12-14 months old
Maximum weight has been maintained for 6+ months
First heat cycle for females around 6-8 months old
First mating capability for males around 6 months old

Behaviourally, the dog will have an established adult temperament and energy levels by 2 years old.

Are Teacup Cavapoos Suitable as Family Pets?

While teacup cavapoos make loving companions, their very small size means certain lifestyle limitations that prospective owners must accept:

Increased medical care costs and health concerns
Inability to engage in vigorous play/exercise due to injury risk
Need for very close supervision both indoors and out due to small size
Restrictions on roughhousing with children/other pets
Unsuitability for homes with young kids due to risk of being dropped/injured

However, for responsible owners who understand and accommodate their needs, teacup cavapoos can make delightful family members in the right situation. They adapt well to apartment living. As long as they receive proper daily care, training, socialization and veterinary attention, teacup cavapoo dogs can thrive as loved indoor companions.

Notable Characteristics of Teacup Cavapoos in Adulthood

Some distinctive traits that teacup cavapoos often display as mature adults include:

Fierce loyalty and affection for their primary owner
A tendency to bark or vocalize when scared or left alone for long periods
Highly food-motivated natures, making them food-responsive for training
Strong herd instincts causing them to follow owners closely room to room
An intelligent, cuddly demeanor welcoming gentle handling
Proficiency at sitting or begging for attention on command

With proper care and continued social experiences, teacup cavapoos usually retain their friendly, playful natures well into senior years.

Frequently Asked Questions About Teacup Cavapoos as Adults

Do They Calm Down Once Fully Grown?

Teacup cavapoos remain lively dogs even as adults. However, their activity levels do moderate somewhat compared to puppyhood. Consistent exercise, play, and enrichment are still important for their health and happiness.

How Much Attention Do They Need When Mature?

As a small breed, teacup cavapoos crave human attention and affection. Owners should plan to spend quality one-on-one time with their dog daily through play, cuddling, grooming, training, and outings even after maturity.

Do They Stay Tiny Forever?

Once reaching their full adult size between 1-2 years old, a well-bred teacup cavapoo's stature will remain stable barring any health issues. Their small size is a lifelong trait, not just when young.

Are They Still Lap Dogs When Grown?

Absolutely! Teacup cavapoos love nothing more than snuggling in your lap regardless of age. Their compact frames allow them to curl up contentedly on a lap, sofa, or bed for hours.