Cavapoos are often called “Teddy Bear Dogs” for a reason: their fluffy coats, round faces, and affectionate personalities make them irresistible. However, like all breeds, Cavapoos have their own unique set of grooming and health needs. Their coats require regular maintenance, and their eyes, ears, and teeth deserve special attention to keep them sparkling, clean, and healthy.

The good news? Taking care of your Cavapoo doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. With the proper checklist and a little consistency, you can turn grooming and health routines into bonding moments you’ll both enjoy. Here’s your ultimate Cavapoo care guide, complete with tips, checklists, and fun facts that make looking after your pup a whole lot easier.

Why Cavapoo Grooming and Health Matter

Cavapoos are a cross between the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and the Poodle, both breeds with distinct grooming needs. Cavaliers are known for their silky coats and floppy ears, while Poodles bring hypoallergenic, curly hair into the mix. Combine the two, and you get a Cavapoo coat that can range from wavy to curly, always soft, and always in need of attention.

Beyond their looks, maintaining a Cavapoo’s coat, eyes, ears, and teeth isn’t just about beauty; it’s about health. Mats in their fur can trap moisture and bacteria, leading to skin infections. Tear stains and buildup around the eyes can irritate. Ear infections are common in floppy-eared breeds, and poor dental care can shorten a dog’s lifespan.

When you see regular grooming as part of your Cavapoo’s overall healthcare, it feels less like a chore and more like an act of love.

Coat Care: Fluff Maintenance 101

Cavapoo coats are one of their most iconic features, but also one of the trickiest to manage. Depending on genetics, your pup may have a looser wave, a tighter curl, or something in between. Regardless of type, every Cavapoo requires regular grooming and upkeep.

Why coat care matters:

• Prevents painful mats and tangles
• Reduces skin irritation and infections
• Keeps your Cavapoo comfortable in all seasons
• Helps distribute natural oils for a shiny, healthy look

Coat checklist:

• Brush 3–4 times a week with a slicker brush or metal comb
• Check armpits, behind the ears, and around the tail for hidden tangles.
• Schedule professional grooming every 6–8 weeks for trims.
• Bathe once every 4–6 weeks with a gentle, dog-friendly shampoo.
• Always dry thoroughly, especially in colder months, to prevent dampness under the coat.

Fun tip: Make brushing time positive by pairing it with treats or cuddle sessions. Your Cavapoo will start to view grooming as a special bonding time, rather than something to avoid.

Eye Care: Keeping the Sparkle

Those big, round Cavapoo eyes are impossible to resist. But like many small breeds, they’re prone to tear stains, mild infections, and irritation if not properly cared for.

Why eye care matters:

• Prevents staining of the fur around the eyes.
• Reduces the risk of eye infections.
• Keeps your Cavapoo comfortable and irritation-free.

Eye checklist:

• Wipe gently under the eyes daily with a damp cloth or vet-approved wipes.
• Keep the fur around the eyes trimmed to prevent poking and irritation.
• Watch for signs of redness, swelling, or excessive discharge; these may indicate an infection.
• Ask your vet about safe tear stain removers if staining persists.

Pro tip: Use a soft cotton pad instead of tissues to avoid scratching delicate skin. A quick daily eye wipe can prevent problems before they start.

Ear Care: Avoiding the Dreaded Flop Funk

Cavapoos inherit their adorable floppy ears from the Cavalier side. While those ears make them extra cute, they also reduce airflow, creating the perfect environment for yeast and bacteria. This makes ear care one of the most essential parts of your Cavapoo’s health routine.

Why ear care matters:

• Prevents painful infections.
• Reduces odors.
• Keeps your Cavapoo comfortable and itch-free.

Ear checklist:

• Clean ears weekly with a vet-approved ear cleaner.
• Dry ears thoroughly after baths and swims—moisture is the #1 cause of infections.
• Check inside the ears for redness, swelling, or unusual discharge.
• Watch for excessive head shaking, scratching, or tilting, which are typical signs of infection.

Fun tip: Make ear cleaning part of a treat routine. One hand cleans, the other hands out a favorite snack. Cavapoos are smart; they’ll quickly associate ear care with something positive.

Dental Care: Say Cheese

Dental health often gets overlooked, but it’s vital for Cavapoos. Small to medium dogs are especially prone to tartar buildup and gum disease, which can affect not only their mouths but also their heart and kidneys. A healthy smile means a healthier pup overall.

Why dental care matters:

• Prevents gum disease and bad breath.
• Reduces risk of tooth loss.
• Protects long-term heart and organ health.

Dental checklist:

• Brush teeth several times a week using a dog-friendly toothbrush and toothpaste (never use human toothpaste).
• Provide dental chews or toys that help reduce plaque.
• Schedule annual dental exams with your vet, including professional cleanings when needed.
• Watch for red gums, bad breath, or reluctance to chew, as these may indicate a dental problem.

Fun fact: Cavapoos often love flavored toothpaste made for dogs, like poultry or peanut butter. Brushing sessions can quickly become one of their favorite “snack times.”

Bonus Health Tips for a Happy Cavapoo

While coat, eye, ear, and dental care are big priorities, overall wellness ties everything together.

• Regular vet visits: Annual checkups catch issues early. For puppies and seniors, more frequent visits may be needed.
• Balanced diet: Quality nutrition supports coat health, strong teeth, and immune function. Look for foods rich in omega-3s for their benefits to the skin and coat.
• Exercise: Regular daily play and walks help keep your Cavapoo fit, preventing obesity-related health issues.
• Enrichment: Mental stimulation is just as important as physical. Puzzle toys, training games, and interactive play keep their brains sharp.

Building Your Routine

The key to keeping your Cavapoo healthy is consistency. Try building a schedule that fits naturally into your lifestyle:

• Daily: Eye wipes, quick coat check, teeth brushing (or at least a dental chew).
• Weekly: Ear cleaning, thorough brushing, enrichment games.
• Monthly: Bath, nail trim, more in-depth grooming.
• Every 6–12 months: Professional grooming, vet exam, dental cleaning as needed.

When you break it down this way, it feels less overwhelming and more like a series of loving habits.

Final Thoughts

Looking after a Cavapoo’s coat, eyes, ears, and teeth doesn’t have to feel like a chore. Once you find a rhythm, it becomes part of the joy of sharing life with such a loving little companion. Grooming days turn into cuddle sessions, ear checks become treat parties, and even tooth brushing can spark a few tail wags.

Here at Jones Farm Puppies, we know that raising a Cavapoo is as much about care as it is about companionship. A little consistency goes a long way in keeping your pup healthy, comfortable, and ready for all the adventures you’ll share.

If you’re curious about other aspects of Cavapoo care, don’t stop here; head over to our FAQ page for even more tips and answers to common questions from fellow Cavapoo families.

FAQ

How often should I brush my Cavapoo?
Three to four times a week, with professional grooming every 6 to 8 weeks.

Do Cavapoos often experience ear infections?
They can if their ears aren’t cleaned regularly. Weekly cleanings and drying after baths help prevent issues.

How do I prevent tear stains on my Cavapoo?
Daily wiping and keeping the fur around the eyes trimmed can help reduce stains.

What’s the most crucial part of Cavapoo health care?
Consistency. Regular coat, eye, ear, and dental care all contribute to a long, healthy, and happy life.