Dog lovers in search of the perfect pup often find themselves debating over which breed to bring home. Two popular choices are the Cavapoo and Goldendoodle. These two dogs are examples of “designer breeds” or crossbreeds. If you ever dreamed of your childhood teddy bear coming to life, bringing home one of these dogs may be the next best thing.
Cavapoos and Goldendoodles are both cuddly, loving, and make great family pets. But which one is right for you?
To help you make your decision, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide comparing these two breeds side-by-side. Read on to learn about the Cavapoo vs Goldendoodle.It may be a hard choice deciding which one you love more!
What is a Cavapoo?
A Cavapoo is a hybrid dog breed that is created by crossing a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a Poodle. So they have a mix of french duck-hunting and aristocratic English lapdog in their genes! Poodles are known for being highly intelligent, while Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are known for being gentle and affectionate.
Cavapoos are relatively new to the world of designer dogs, but they have already become quite popular. They are known for being intelligent, loving, and low-shedding dogs that make great pets for families with allergies.
These adorable canines are known for their smaller size, making them a great choice for those who live in apartments or small homes.
This breed originated in Australia in the early 2000s and has since become a popular choice for dog lovers all over the world. Cavapoos are also sometimes referred to as Cavadoodles or Cavapoodles.
Similar breeds to this dog include the Maltipoo and the Toy Poodle. However, a Cavapoo is often mistaken for a Goldendoodle because of their similar appearance.
Next: The Cavapoo vs. Cockapoo comparison
What is a Goldendoodle?
A Goldendoodle is a hybrid dog breed that is created by crossing a Golden Retriever and a Poodle. Goldendoodles are known for their friendly and loving nature, making them great family pets.
This breed of dog is also relatively new. Breeders began creating the mix around the late 1960s but the designer breed did not fully emerge until the 1990s in North America.
Goldendoodles quickly gained popularity due to their low-shedding coats and their friendly dispositions. In other words, they are a perfect mix of two of the most popular dog breeds in the world!
This breed is a popular choice for families with allergies since they are considered to be hypoallergenic. They are also known for being intelligent and easy to train.
Similar breeds to the Goldendoodle include the Labradoodle, the Bernedoodle, and the Cockapoo.
Next: The Maltipoo vs. Cavapoo
Appearance
Cavapoos and Goldendoodles share many of the same physical characteristics. Both breeds are typically medium-sized dogs with long, floppy ears and a wavy coat.
However, there are some key differences in appearance between the two breeds. Cavapoos are typically smaller than Goldendoodles and they have a more rectangular head shape. Goldendoodles tend to have a more rounded head shape and their coats are usually thicker and longer.
Cavapoos can come in a variety of coat colors including black, tan,white, brown, and red. Goldendoodles typically have a golden-colored coat but they can also come in black, brown, cream, red, and parti.
The tail of a Cavapoo is typically long and straight. The tail of a Goldendoodle is usually shorter and may be curly.
Both breeds are often compared to a living teddy bear due to their cute, fluffy appearance. They maintain this teddy bear appearance from puppies to adulthood.
Next: Best puppy foods for smaller breed dogs
Size
Cavapoos are typically smaller dogs than Goldendoodles. The average Cavapoo weighs between 10 and 20 pounds and stands at 10 to 14 inches tall. This breed is consistantly small whether it is a Mini or Toy Cavapoo.
On the other hand, pet lovers have a broader range of sizes with a Goldendoodle. These dogs typically weigh between 10 and 90 pounds and stand at 15 to 26 inches tall. The size of the Goldendoodle is highly dependent on the type you have.
A Toy Goldendoodle is the smallest one. If you want a bigger Goldendoodle, make sure you look for a standard size one.
Next: Best goldendoodle puppy foods to buy (our list)
Health
Cavapoos and Goldendoodles are both considered to be relatively healthy breeds of dogs. However, some health conditions are more common in these breeds than others.
Common Disease – Ear Infections
Both breeds can suffer from frequent ear infections. Ear infections often happen when dogs have long, floppy ears that do not get enough air circulation. Breeders can help prevent this by cropping the ears of Cavapoos and Goldendoodles.
Signs of ear infection in dogs include:
- Shaking their head frequently
- Scratching their ears frequently
- Whining or whimpering
- Excessive ear wax
- Crusty or red ear tissue
- Bad smell coming from their ears
Common Disease – Joint Dysplasia
Joint dysplasia is a condition that can affect the joints of both Cavapoos and Goldendoodles. This condition is caused by a malformation in the joint that can lead to pain and arthritis.
Joint dysplasia is more common in larger dogs but it can affect dogs of any size. Some signs of joint dysplasia in dogs include:
- Limping
- Reluctance to move or exercise
- Arthritis
- Joint pain
- Stiffness
Common Cavapoo Diseases
Cavapoos are prone to health conditions such as luxating patella, mitral valve disease, ear infections, and progressive retinal.
Luxating Patella
The patella, or kneecap, is a small bone in the front leg that helps the leg bend. A luxating patella occurs when the patella is dislocated from its normal position. This condition is painful and can cause lameness in the affected leg.
Mitral Valve Disease
Mitral valve disease is a heart condition that occurs when the mitral valve, which controls blood flow from the heart, does not function properly. This condition can lead to heart failure and death.
Progressive Retinal
Progressive retinal is a degenerative eye condition that leads to blindness. This condition is incurable and progresses slowly over time.
Epilepsy
Epilepsy is a neurological condition that causes seizures. Seizures can range from mild to severe and can be life-threatening.
Common Goldendoodle Diseases
Goldendoodles are also prone to health conditions such as hip dysplasia, cranial cruciate ligament rupture, atropic dermatitis, and von Willebrand’s disease.
Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia is a condition that affects the hip joint and can cause pain and lameness. If your Goldendoodle has hip dysplasia, he or she may need surgery to fix the problem.
Cranial Cruciate Ligament Rupture
This ailement of the knee is common in all breeds of dogs, especially larger ones. It occurs when the ligament that stabilizes the knee joint is torn. It can be a very painful injury and may require surgery to fix.
Atropic Dermatitis
Atopic dermatitis is a skin condition that causes itching, redness, and irritation. This condition is often hereditary and there is no cure.
Von Willebrand’s Disease
This is a bleeding disorder that prevents the blood from clotting properly. It can be mild or severe and can be life-threatening.
Some of the above diseases in these dogs can result due to inbreeding. Therefore, it is important to purchase a Cavapoo or Goldendoodle from a reputable breeder who health tests their dogs.
Since both breeds have good genetic diversity, they are less likely to inherit health conditions from their parents. However, all dogs are susceptible to health problems, so it’s important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of common diseases.
Lifespan
These dogs have similar lifespans but the Cavapoo on average has a couple more years advantage over its Goldendoodle counterpart.
Cavapoos typically have a lifespan of 12 to 15 years. Goldendoodles typically have a lifespan of 10 to 15 years. The lifespan of a Cavapoo or Goldendoodle can be affected by health conditions, diet, and lifestyle.
Next: The Cavachon vs. Cavapoo
Temperament
Cavapoos and Goldendoodles are both known for being friendly, loving, and intelligent breeds of dogs. They are great family pets and do well with children.
Goldendoodles are typically more energetic. They may be more appropriate for families with active lifestyles. These bigger teddy bears need more mental stimulation than a Cavapoo.
Remember these dogs are mixed with Golden Retrievers and Standard Poodles, two highly active breeds. As a result, a Goldendoodle can be used as a guide or therapy dog.
Cavapoos typically have a more laidback personality. They may be more suitable for families who live a less active lifestyle. These dogs are more suitable for a small space than a standard Goldendoodle. A moderate amount of exercise such as two short daily walks is sufficient for this type of dog.
Cavapoos and Goldendoodles both need to be socialized from a young age. This means exposing them to different people, places, and experiences so that they can learn to interact with the world around them.
When it comes to separation anxiety, Cavapoos tend to suffer from this condition more than Goldendoodles. This means that they may become anxious and stressed when left alone for long periods of time. However, stick to proper training and reinforcement to help your furry friend cope.
Next: The Havapoo vs. Cavapoo
Socialization With Other Animals
Some dogs don’t always get along with other dogs or animals. When it comes to Cavapoos and Goldendoodles, both breeds typically do well with other animals.
Cavapoos and Goldendoodles are both known for being social butterflies. They love meeting new people and animals. It’s important to socialize your Cavapoo or Goldendoodle from a young age so that they can learn how to interact with other animals.
One of the best ways to socialize your Cavapoo or Goldendoodle is to take them to the dog park. This is a great place for them to run around and play with other dogs. It’s also a great way for you to meet other dog owners. Since they have such an easy temperament, you should not have to worry about your pup starting any dog fights!
Another great way to socialize your Cavapoo or Goldendoodle is to sign them up for dog training classes. This is a great way for them to learn how to interact with other animals and people.
Work Ability
Your Goldendoodle or Cavapoo may even make a good therapy dog. Therapy dogs provide emotional support to people who are suffering from illness, injury, or loss.
Goldendoodles can also be good service dogs. Service dogs help people with physical disabilities by performing tasks that they are unable to do. Since the Goldendoodle needs regular mental stimulation, this breed is a good fit for this type of work.
Grooming
Cavapoos and Goldendoodles both have long, wavy coats that require regular medium to high grooming needs. They will need to be brushed a few times a week to prevent their coats from matting.
The biggest aspect of their grooming involves their hair. You should take either breed to get their hair trimmed every 4 to 8 weeks. The curlier the hair, the more often it will need to be trimmed on both types of dogs.
Cavapoos and Goldendoodles will also need to have their nails trimmed regularly. It is important to keep their nails short so that they do not get caught on things and break.
When it comes to dental care, Cavapoos and Goldendoodles will need to have their teeth brushed on a regular basis. This will help to prevent gum disease and keep their teeth healthy.
Litter Size
When it is time to give birth, your Goldendoodle or Cavapoo will deliver between 2 to 10 puppies. Overall, the Goldendoodle will have about two more puppies in their litter than a Cavapoo.
So if you want more little ones running around, go with a Goldendoodle.
Cost
Cavapoos and Goldendoodles are both relatively expensive breeds of dogs. Cavapoos typically cost between $1000 to $3000. Goldendoodles typically cost between $2000 to $4000.
The price of a Cavapoo or Goldendoodle will depend on factors such as the breeder, the dog’s coat color and type, and whether the dog is a toy, mini, or standard size.
The least expensive Cavapoos are typically those with straight coats and black or brown colors. The most expensive Cavapoos are typically those with curly coats and rare colors such as blue or silver.
The least expensive Goldendoodles are typically those with straight coats and black or brown colors. The most expensive Goldendoodles are typically those with curly coats and rare colors such as blue or silver.
Where To Find Both Breeds
When looking for a Cavapoo or Goldendoodle, it is important to find a reputable breeder. There are many Cavapoo and Goldendoodle breeders across the United States.
While both breeds are popular, the Goldendoodle is more common. So if you want a Goldendoodle, it will be easier to find a breeder.
You can also find both breeds of dogs at animal shelters and rescue organizations. This is a great option for those looking to adopt an adult dog.
Which Breed Is Best For You
When choosing between a Cavapoo or Goldendoodle, it is important to consider your lifestyle and what you are looking for in a dog.
If you are looking for a smaller dog or live in an apartment, the Cavapoo may be a better choice. If you have a large yard and don’t mind a more active dog, the Goldendoodle may be a better choice for you.
Both breeds of dogs make great family pets. They are intelligent, loving, and can be trained to do tricks. However, if you want your friendly pet to also be a good guard dog, the Goldendoodle is the better choice.
Since it is larger, the Goldendoodle is often recommended for families with little kids since it is less likely to accidently get hurt while playing. The Cavapoo’s toy size may make it more fragile with little kids that are unsure how to handle it.
Regardless of which one you choose, you will have to be prepared to do regular hair grooming. Both breeds of dogs have long coats that require regular brushing and trimming.
Pros and Cons of Owning a Cavapoo or Goldendoodle
Now that you know more about Cavapoos and Goldendoodles, it is time to decide if one of these breeds is right for you.
Here are some pros and cons of owning a Cavapoo or Goldendoodle:
Pros
- Good Intellect
- Affectionate
- Low-shed
- Good For People With Allergies
- Family Dogs
Cavapoos and Goldendoodles are both intelligent breeds of dogs. They are easy to train and can learn tricks quickly.
You won’t have to worry about your pet getting along with family. Cavapoos and Goldendoodles are both affectionate breeds of dogs. They enjoy being around people and love to cuddle. They do well with children and get along with other animals.
If you are worried about sweeping up tons of curly hair, that is not a concern for these types of dogs. They will not shed very much and are a good choice for those with allergies.
Cons
- Expensive
- Grooming Maintenance
- Can get certain diseases
Cavapoos and Goldendoodles are both high-maintenance breeds of dogs. They require regular grooming and haircuts due to their curly hair. The hair will easily get matted without proper care.
Cavapoos and Goldendoodles are both expensive breeds of dogs. They can cost anywhere from $1500 to $4000.
These dogs tend to be healthy but can get expensive diseases such as hip dysplasia.
Cavapoos and Goldendoodles Are Good Choices
In conclusion, Cavapoos and Goldendoodles are both great family pets. They are intelligent, affectionate, and low-shedding. However, their
glorious hair make them a little high-maintenance. You should also be prepared to spend money obtaining one since they are far from cheap.
Choose the breed that is right for you and your family. Regardless of which one you choose, you will be getting a loving furry friend.