Cavapoo vs. Goldendoodle: Which Makes the Better Family Pet?

As a breeder, one of the questions I’m frequently asked is  Cavapoos vs. Goldendoodles: What is the difference? Both breeds are prevalent, especially among families seeking a loving, intelligent, small- to moderately-sized companion. While they share some excellent qualities, each breed has its distinct characteristics that make them unique. Understanding these differences can help you choose the ideal companion for your family’s lifestyle and preferences.

Origin and History

The Cavapoo, also known as the Cavoodle, is an adorable hybrid created by crossing a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel with either a Miniature or Toy Poodle. This breed rose to popularity in the late 1990s and soon gained fans worldwide, including in the United States. The Cavapoo was bred to blend the Cavalier’s gentle, affectionate nature with the intelligence and hypoallergenic coat of the Poodle. This combination makes for a trainable, family-friendly companion that’s also an excellent choice for those with allergies.

The origin of the GoldenDoodle breed dates back to the late 1980s and early 1990s when breeders began developing designer dogs that combined the best traits of two popular breeds. The idea behind the GoldenDoodle was to create a dog with the intelligence, low-shedding coat, and hypoallergenic qualities of the Poodle, combined with the friendly, loyal, and gentle nature of the Golden Retriever. This blend of traits made the Goldendoodle particularly appealing to families, individuals with allergies, and those looking for a service or therapy dog.

Cavapoo Vs. Goldendoodle: Small or Medium?

Cavapoos typically stand between 9 and 14 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh 5 to 25 pounds. Their exact size depends on whether their Poodle parent was a Toy or Miniature Poodle. Cavapoos from Toy Poodle parents tend to be smaller, while those with Miniature Poodle parents are generally larger.

Goldendoodles can vary significantly in size, depending on whether their Poodle parent is a Standard, Miniature, or Toy Poodle. Standard Goldendoodles typically stand between 20 and 24 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh anywhere from 50 to 90 pounds. Micro Mini GoldenDoodles are the smallest, standing 10 to 15 inches tall and weighing 10 to 25 pounds. 

Comparing Cavapoo vs. Goldendoodle, Cavapoos are smaller, with their size influenced by whether their Poodle parent is Toy or Miniature, while Goldendoodles vary more significantly depending on their Poodle parent’s size

Cavapoo Vs. Goldendoodle: Physical Characteristics

Cavapoos are celebrated for their adorable looks. They sport a soft coat that can be either wavy or curly, and it often features delightful shades such as red, apricot, or cream, though other colors are also available. I specialize in unique styles, including Parti Cavapoos, which sport colorful patches on their heads and bodies. Merle Cavapoos boast stunning silver and gray coats and, occasionally, striking blue eyes. Their appearance is frequently likened to that of a teddy bear, thanks to their round faces, large, expressive eyes, adorable button noses, and floppy ears, all of which combine to create an irresistibly charming look.

Goldendoodles, in contrast, exhibit a wide variety of coat textures. Their fur can range from loose, wavy curls to straight and silky smooth. The color options for Goldendoodles are equally diverse, including shades like cream, apricot, chocolate, black, and even multi-colored patterns. While they share some facial features with other Poodle mixes, such as their soulful, expressive eyes, Goldendoodles tend to have a broader, more defined “snoot” or muzzle, giving them a distinct, handsome appearance.

When comparing Cavapoo vs. Goldendoodle, both breeds offer a range of coat styles and colors, but their distinct appearances appeal to different preferences in potential pet owners

Cavapoo Vs. Goldendoodle: Two Well-Tempered Pups

Cavapoos are renowned for their gentle and loving temperament. They build deep connections with their families and flourish in the company of their human companions. Their affectionate nature makes them especially great with children and other pets, making them an excellent choice for families looking for a friend.

On the other hand, Goldendoodles are celebrated for their friendly, pleasant nature and balanced energy levels. They are typically more active and outgoing than Cavapoos, thriving on physical activity and mental stimulation. Their playful, affectionate demeanor makes them excellent family companions, and they tend to bond well with children and other pets. Goldendoodles are known for their eagerness to please and adapt, making them easy to train and an excellent fit for various households.

When considering Cavapoo vs. Goldendoodle, both breeds excel as family pets, but Cavapoos are often favored for their calm and gentle nature, while Goldendoodles bring a higher energy level and playful spirit.

Shedding and Allergies

Cavapoos are recognized for their low-shedding coats, a characteristic they inherit from their Poodle lineage. Their fur is typically hypoallergenic, making them an excellent option for families with allergies. The lack of shedding helps maintain a cleaner home and reduces the presence of pet dander in the environment.

Goldendoodles share a similar benefit: their coats are typically low-shedding and often hypoallergenic. However, the degree of shedding can vary depending on the traits inherited from their Golden Retriever and Poodle parents. While many GoldenDoodles have minimal shedding, the amount can differ based on their coat type, with curlier coats tending to shed less than wavier or straighter ones.

When comparing Cavapoo vs. Goldendoodle, both breeds are known for their low-shedding, hypoallergenic coats, though shedding may vary slightly in Goldendoodles based on their coat type.

Health and Well-being

Cavapoos are generally healthy dogs and can occasionally be prone to hereditary health issues if not properly tested and screened for in advance. Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, quality food and supplements, and a healthy lifestyle can help manage and reduce the risk of these conditions. As a reputable breeder, I do health tests for 250 genetically transferable diseases and screen parents to ensure our cavapoos are healthy and well-tempered. No breeder can perfectly screen 100%, but we do our absolute best and screen every possible genetic test with as much accuracy as possible.

Goldendoodles are generally healthy but can inherit certain health conditions from their Golden Retriever lineage. Common concerns include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, eye conditions, and skin allergies. To keep a Goldendoodle healthy, providing a balanced diet, high-quality food and supplements, and regular veterinary checkups is essential. With proper care, attention, and a good veterinarian, many of these potential issues can be managed, helping to ensure a long and happy life for your Goldendoodle.

When comparing Cavapoo vs. Goldendoodle, both breeds are generally healthy, but each can be prone to certain hereditary conditions, making health screenings by responsible breeders crucial for both.

Diet and Nutrition: Fuel for a Healthy Life

Cavapoos thrive on a well-balanced diet, prioritizing high-quality proteins and healthy fats, with meat as the primary ingredient. It’s important to avoid ingredients like corn, wheat, byproducts, soy, and preservatives. Maintaining proper portion control is essential, as obesity can lead to various health problems, such as joint issues and heart disease. To ensure they stay at a healthy weight, provide nutritious meals and avoid overfeeding. We recommend PawTree health and wellness products because they are all natural and chemical-free. 

Goldendoodles likewise thrive on a diet rich in high-quality ingredients, particularly proteins and healthy fats. Similar to Cavapoos, managing their food intake and ensuring they get plenty of exercise to maintain a healthy weight is essential. Regularly monitoring their diet helps prevent obesity and related health issues, contributing to their overall well-being and longevity. A balanced approach to nutrition and activity is vital to keeping a Goldendoodle active and healthy.

When comparing Cavapoo vs. Goldendoodle, both breeds require a high-quality diet with proper portion control, but each benefits from tailored nutrition to support their specific health needs and energy levels

Living Arrangements and Suitability

Cavapoos are delightful companions that adapt well to various living situations, from farm life to apartment living. Their small size and generally calm demeanor make them perfect for smaller spaces. While they enjoy relaxing by your side, they also benefit from daily walks and mental stimulation to keep their playful nature and wagging tails engaged.

Goldendoodles tend to be more energetic. While they can adjust to apartment living, they genuinely thrive in homes with spacious yards where they can run and let out their playful energy. These active dogs enjoy having the room to stretch their legs and explore, and they benefit from regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. Whether in an apartment or a home with a yard, Goldendoodles are most content when they have plenty of opportunities to burn off their energy and engage in interactive play with their families.

When comparing Cavapoo vs. Goldendoodle, Cavapoos are well-suited for apartment living due to their calm demeanor, while Goldendoodles thrive in homes with more space to accommodate their higher energy levels.

Socialization and Compatibility

Cavapoos are the social butterflies of the dog world. They naturally enjoy making new friends, whether it’s with other dogs, pets, or people. Their sweet and gentle temperament makes them a pleasure to be around. However, like all dogs, early socialization is essential for them to grow into confident, well-adjusted adults. With the right experiences and guidance, your Cavapoo will develop into a loving companion who feels comfortable in any social setting. I focus on training them for various social situations and exposure to different sounds, which helps them become less anxious and more relaxed when encountering new people and experiences later on.

Goldendoodles are known for their lively and outgoing personalities, bringing joy and enthusiasm wherever they go. They have a natural charm that wins over everyone, from kids to other dogs and even strangers. Their friendly, sociable nature makes them perfect companions for active families who enjoy outdoor adventures and social activities. Whether it’s a trip to the park or a family event, your Goldendoodle will likely be at the center of the fun, spreading happiness to everyone around. However, it’s important to note that their energy levels can be high, and while they are generally friendly, they may require proper training to manage their exuberance and avoid becoming too excitable or boisterous.

When comparing Cavapoo vs. Goldendoodle, both breeds thrive in social environments, with Cavapoos bringing a calm, gentle presence, while Goldendoodles often energize any gathering with their lively, outgoing personalities.

Training Your Pet

Training is a crucial part of welcoming a new puppy into your home, and both Cavapoos and Cockapoos respond well to training, though they have some differences. Cavapoos are known for their eagerness to please, high intelligence, and quick learning ability, making training straightforward. They are highly responsive to positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats and praise. Consistent, gentle training sessions work best with Cavapoos, and they often excel in obedience and agility training. Socialization is also important to ensure they grow into well-rounded adults.

Goldendoodles are highly energetic, which can sometimes make training a bit challenging. Their enthusiasm requires consistent training sessions to keep them focused and engaged. They respond well to positive reinforcement, but their playful nature may require extra patience during the process. Early socialization is key for Goldendoodles, helping to prevent overexcitement and ensuring they feel comfortable around other dogs and people. Cavapoo vs. Goldendoodle, starting training as early as possible is ideal for both breeds, as they thrive in environments that offer mental stimulation and physical activity. Incorporating fun, interactive activities into their training helps keep them motivated and eager to learn.

When comparing Cavapoo vs. Goldendoodle, both breeds benefit from early training, but Cavapoos tend to be more eager to please, while Goldendoodles may require more patience due to their high energy levels

The Financial Commitment

When bringing a Cavapoo into your home, the initial investment can vary greatly depending on the breeder and the puppy’s lineage. Typically, you can expect to pay between $2,500 and up. But the expenses don’t stop there; owning a Cavapoo means planning for ongoing costs like high-quality food, regular grooming sessions to keep their coat looking its best, routine vet visits to ensure they stay healthy, and other day-to-day essentials. Though the costs might seem high, the love and joy these adorable pups bring are genuinely priceless. 

Goldendoodles are similarly priced, with puppies typically ranging from $2,500 and up, depending on factors such as breeder reputation and lineage. Just like with Cavapoos, it’s important to budget for the ongoing costs associated with responsible pet ownership. This includes expenses for grooming, medical care, high-quality food, and other necessities.

Whether you are choosing Cavapoo vs. Goldendoodle, ensuring these aspects are covered is essential to providing the best care for your new Goldendoodle and making sure they thrive as a beloved member of your family.

Choosing the Right Friend

Goldendoodle vs. Cavapoos, each bring their own special qualities to the table, but their unique traits may suit different lifestyles. Goldendoodles, with their friendly and energetic nature, are ideal for families who enjoy an active, playful companion. Cavapoo vs. Goldendoodle, both their outgoing personality and eagerness to engage make them a great fit for those looking for a lively, affectionate addition to the family. I find both the Cavapoos and the Goldendoodles’ vibrant energy and loving demeanor incredibly appealing.

We’d love to help you find the perfect addition to your family! If you’re interested in any of our available puppies, please don’t hesitate to take a look at our website. We’re here to answer any questions and guide you through the process of bringing one of our adorable pups home.

FAQ:

Is a Cavapoo or a Goldendoodle better?
Both are great pets!

Which is calmer, a Cavapoo or a Goldendoodle?
Cavapoos are lower energy.

What is the calmest doodle breed?
A cavapoo.

Do cavapoos bark a lot? 
Cavapoos don’t often bark but may bark when they’re anxious.

What is the friendliest?
Both are very friendly, but Goldendoodles are more active and social.

Who is the healthiest doodle?
Both are very healthy, but smaller dogs tend to have longer lives.

Is a male or female cavapoo better?
Both male and female Cavapoos make great pets.

Is an F1B better than an F1?
F1B doodles shed less than F1, which is better allergy-wise.

They are so similar that most people confuse the two breeds. They look the same, act the same and have the same temperaments. Mini goldendoodles like a little bit more activity meaning they would benefit from an extra walk per day. Both breeds are very smart, playful, and energetic. ♥️