Common Cavapoo Behavior Problems and How to Fix Them

If you’re considering adding a Cavapoo to your family, you’re about to embark on a delightful journey with one of the most affectionate and charming breeds out there! As the owner of Jones Farm Puppies and a dedicated Cavapoo breeder, I’ve had the pleasure of raising and observing these delightful dogs for many years. Cavapoos are known for their friendly and affectionate nature. In this post, I’ll share insights on common Cavapoo temperament traits and offer practical solutions to help you and your furry friend live harmoniously.

Understanding Cavapoo Temperament

Before we dive into specific Cavapoo behavior problems, it’s essential to understand the typical Cavapoo temperament. Cavapoos are generally:

• Friendly and sociable
• Intelligent and eager to please
• Energetic and playful
• Affectionate and devoted to their families
• Smart and easy to train
• Excellent family dogs
• Excellent options for service dogs

These traits make Cavapoos wonderful companions. 

Common Cavapoo Behavior Problems

Separation Anxiety

Cavapoos form strong bonds with their families, which without proper training can lead to separation anxiety when left alone.

Signs of separation anxiety:

• Excessive barking or howling when left alone
• Destructive Cavapoo behavior problems (chewing furniture, scratching doors)
• Pacing or restlessness
• Attempting to escape

How to address it:

With a reputable breeder, like a lot of Cavapoo behavior problems, this will be alleviated on the front end because of the training that we do an early socialization with your puppy before it leaves Jones Farm.

• Gradually accustom your Cavapoo to being alone, starting with short periods
• Provide engaging toys and puzzles to keep them occupied
• Employ crate training for a safe, comfortable space
• Don’t make a big fuss when leaving or returning home

Excessive Barking

While Cavapoos aren’t typically known for being overly vocal, some can develop a habit of excessive barking.

Common triggers for barking:

• Alerting to visitors or unfamiliar sounds
• Seeking attention
• Boredom or lack of exercise
• The mailman

Solutions:

• Identify and address the underlying cause of barking
• Use positive reinforcement to reward quiet behavior
• Provide plenty of mental and physical stimulation
• Consider professional training if the problem persists

Hyperactivity

Cavapoos are semi energetic dogs, especially in their puppy and adolescent years. Without proper outlets, this energy can manifest as one of the possible Cavapoo behavior problems, hyperactivity.

Signs of hyperactivity:

• Constant movement or pacing
• Difficulty settling down
• Jumping on people
• Excessive mouthing or nipping

How to manage hyperactivity:

• Ensure your Cavapoo gets adequate daily exercise (at least 30-60 minutes)
• Incorporate mental stimulation through training and puzzle toys
• Establish a consistent routine with designated playtime and rest periods
• Practice calm behavior exercises and reward relaxation
• We also recommend the use of Chillaxx, message us for a coupon! 

Potty Training Challenges

Some Cavapoo owners report difficulties with potty training, particularly in the early months. This is not common at all with a reputable breeder that starts potty training early.

Tips for successful potty training:

• Establish a consistent routine for feeding and potty breaks
• Use positive reinforcement when your Cavapoo eliminates in the right place
• Supervise closely and learn to recognize signs that your puppy needs to go
• Be patient – some Cavapoos may take longer to fully grasp potty training

Leash Pulling

Excited Cavapoos may pull on the leash during walks, which can be frustrating.

Strategies to reduce leash pulling:

• Start leash training early with positive reinforcement. We start it here at Jones Farm in our puppy kindergarten.
• Use a front-clip harness to discourage pulling
• Practice the “stop and wait” technique when your dog pulls
• Reward your Cavapoo for walking calmly by your side

Resource Guarding

While not common in well-socialized Cavapoos, some may develop resource-guarding as Cavapoo behavior problems, and extremely uncommon in Jones farm puppies.

Signs of resource guarding:

• Growling or snapping when approached while eating or playing with a toy
• Becoming tense or freezing when someone comes near their possessions

How to address resource guarding:

• Correct growling, as it’s an important warning signal
• Teach your Cavapoo that giving up items leads to positive outcomes
• Practice the “trade-up” game, offering high-value treats in exchange for toys
• Consult a professional trainer if the Cavapoo behavior problems are severe or worsening

Excessive Chewing

Cavapoos, especially puppies, may develop destructive chewing if not properly directed.

Tips for managing chewing:

• Provide appropriate chew toys and rotate them regularly to maintain interest.
• Puppy-proof your home to remove tempting items.
• Use deterrent sprays on furniture or other off-limits items.
• Redirect chewing to appropriate toys and praise good choices
• We recommend the CBD bones, message us for a coupon. 

Preventing Cavapoo Behavior Problems 

As a breeder, prevention is key to raising a well-behaved Cavapoo. Here are some general tips to prevent Cavapoo behavior problems:

1. Early socialization: Expose your Cavapoo puppy positively to various people, animals, and environments during their critical socialization period (3-16 weeks).
2. Consistent training: Start training early and use positive reinforcement methods. Cavapoos are intelligent and eager to please, making them responsive to training.
3. Mental stimulation: Provide puzzle toys, training sessions, and interactive play to engage your Cavapoo’s mind.
4. Regular exercise: Ensure your Cavapoo gets adequate daily exercise to prevent boredom and excess energy buildup.
5. Proper nutrition: Feed a balanced, high-quality diet appropriate for your Cavapoo’s age and activity level. We recommend an all natural, holistic, organic food, we would be happy to send you a coupon, message us.
6. Regular veterinary care: Keep up with check-ups and vaccinations to ensure your Cavapoo stays healthy, as health issues can sometimes manifest as Cavapoo behavior problems.

When to Seek Professional Help For Cavapoo Behavior Problems

While many Cavapoo behavior problems can be addressed at home, some situations may require professional assistance. Consider consulting a certified dog trainer or behaviorist if:

• The behavior is severe or worsening despite your efforts
• You’re concerned about aggression or fear-based behaviors
• The problem is significantly impacting your or your dog’s quality of life
• You’re unsure how to address a specific behavior safely and effectively

Remember, every Cavapoo is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Patience, consistency, and a loving approach are key to helping your Cavapoo overcome behavior challenges.

Conclusion: Cavapoo Behavior Problems

Cavapoos are wonderful companions with their loving nature and playful spirit. While they may face some behavior challenges, most issues can be effectively managed with proper training, socialization, and care. As a breeder, I’m committed to producing well-adjusted Cavapoo puppies and supporting their families throughout their lives. If you’re considering adding a Cavapoo to your family or have questions about your Cavapoo behavior problems, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Jones Farm Puppies.

FAQ

Are Cavapoos prone to aggression?
Cavapoos are generally not an aggressive breed. However, like any dog, they may display aggression if fearful, in pain, or improperly socialized. Early socialization and positive training are vital to preventing aggressive behaviors.

How much exercise does a Cavapoo need to prevent behavior problems?
Cavapoos typically need about 30-60 minutes of exercise daily, depending on their age and energy level. This can include walks, playtime, and training sessions.

Can Cavapoos be left alone during the day?
While Cavapoos can be trained to handle some alone time, they thrive on human companionship and may develop separation anxiety regularly if left alone for long periods. It’s best if someone can be home most of the day or if you can arrange for a dog walker or pet sitter 

Are Cavapoos difficult to potty train?
Cavapoos can sometimes take longer to potty train than other breeds. Consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement are key to successful potty training.

How can I stop my Cavapoo from excessive barking?
Identify the cause of the barking (e.g., boredom, attention-seeking, alerting) and address it accordingly. Consistent training, providing mental stimulation, and rewarding quiet behavior can help reduce excessive barking.

At what age do Cavapoos typically calm down?
Cavapoos often start to calm down around 1-2 years of age, but individual dogs may vary. Proper training and meeting their exercise needs can help manage their energy levels at any age.

Can behavior problems in Cavapoos be genetic?
While some tendencies can have a genetic component, most behavior problems in Cavapoos are more influenced by environment, training, and socialization. As an ethical breeder, we carefully select our breeding dogs for good temperaments to minimize the risk of genetic behavior issues.

How do I know if my Cavapoo’s behavior problem requires professional help?
If a behavior is severe, worsening, or impacting your daily life despite your best efforts to address it, it may be time to consult a professional dog trainer or behaviorist. Always seek professional help for any aggressive behaviors.