Bringing a new pet home is exciting — but it also comes with plenty of questions. To help make the journey easier, we asked one of our trusted Cavoodle Breeder Partners to talk through the most important things every first-time pet owner wants to know (and should be asking).
From understanding what to expect in those first few weeks to grooming best practices, our Breeder Partner shares insights to set you and your Cavoodle up for success.
Introducing the Breeder: Cavoodled By Enza
Enza is a dedicated, family-run breeder based in Melbourne, specializing in first-generation Cavoodles (F1). She draws on a lifetime of experience with dogs—both large and small—to cultivate companionship, loyalty, and love in each Cavoodle she raises.
Enza’s mission is simple: she strives to gift families a “once‑in‑a‑lifetime” puppy; and she’s passionate about raising puppies where they are loved, socialised, nurtured and introduced to the world in positive ways.
- Ranked #1 Cavoodle Breeder in Australia by The Dogs Journal (2022–2025).
- Featured among the Best Cavoodle Breeders in Victoria by Dog Breeds Expert, and recognized by We Love Doodles as a Top 5 Breeder in Melbourne
Cavoodle Breed FAQs
How long do Cavoodles live and what are the biggest health risks for the breed cross?
“Cavoodles can live on average between 12 to 15 years. Environmental factors and lifestyle can of course play into this. The biggest health risks (since they inherit risks from either parent) are heart, eyes, joint and bones, dental, neurological, obesity and ear infections.”
Which health screenings are important for Cavoodles?
“Like any breed, it is very important to health screen Cavoodles (Cavalier King Charles x Poodle) since they inherit risks from both parent breeds. Ethical breeders will do testing on the parent dogs before breeding such as Genetic or DNA testing, Cardiac Health, Orthopaedic Health and Eye Health.”
How often should I bring my Cavoodle for a vet check-up?
“For a Cavoodle or any breed, regular checkups are one of the best ways to keep them healthy and catch issues early.
For a puppy up to 12 months of age, every 3-4 weeks until 16 weeks of age for vaccinations, parasite prevention and growth checks. For an adult (1-7years) at least once a year for full health exam, weight check, dental check, heart and lungs, eyes, skin and vaccination updates.
You may even consider annual bloodwork. For seniors (7+years) every 6 months for annual blood and urine tests, heart check and dental.”
Pet care FAQs for Cavoodles
How do you match puppy temperament to a buyer’s lifestyle?
“After an in-depth application process and a world class curriculum (Empowered Breeder Program) here at Cavoodled By Enza, I closely work and observe my puppies from a very early age.
I can easily look at the temperaments of each puppy and guide my families to the puppy most suited to them. I conduct temperament testing on my puppies before they go to their new families. This helps ensure the puppy is happy, well-adjusted and doesn’t end up being rehomed due to a mismatch.”
How much time alone can a Cavoodle have without stress?
“Cavoodles are companion dogs at heart. Both Cavalier King Charles and the poodle are very people-oriented breeds. If not gradually trained for independence, they will not cope very well.
Gradual independence early training is highly recommended so that the risks of things such as separation anxiety, stress behaviours and boredom do not become an issue.”
Are Cavoodles friendly with kids, cats, and other dogs?
“Yes! Cavoodles are generally known for being very social, gentle and affectionate, which makes them one of the most popular family dogs. But like any breed, their behaviour will depend on genetics, socialisation and training.”
Do Cavoodles bark a lot even at home?
“Generally Cavoodles are not excessive barkers compared to some small breeds; however, they can develop barking habits if not managed.
Common triggers include separation anxiety, territorial alert barking, attention seeking and being under stimulated. With training, socialisation and enough mental and physical exercise most Cavoodles are calm, quiet companions.”
Are Cavoodles good apartment dogs? What’s an ideal home for Cavoodles?
“Cavoodles are actually one of the most adaptable companion dogs, which is why they’ve become so popular in both city and suburban apartments as well as suburban family homes.”
Is crate training recommended for Cavoodles?
“Yes, absolutely! Crate training is highly recommended for Cavoodles and most breeds when done positively. It helps with house training, gives them a safe space to retreat to, and prevents destructive behaviour.”
Are Cavoodles good at any sport or activity?
“Cavoodles may be small but thanks to their Poodle intelligence and Cavalier eagerness to please, they absolutely are good at sports and activities.
Activities such as obedience and trick training, agility, rally obedience, therapy and assistance work, fetch, nose work, puzzle games and everyday activities. Bear in mind however that they are not endurance dogs, so moderation is key so as not to cause any joint issues.”
Grooming FAQs for Cavoodles
Are Cavoodles truly “hypoallergenic,” and what does that realistically mean for allergy sufferers?
“There’s a lot of marketing around “hypoallergenic” dogs and is often misunderstood. Cavoodles are a cross between Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Poodle. Poodles are low shedding, which is why they are considered more allergy friendly.
Cavaliers shed more and produce dander, which is what typically triggers allergic reactions. So, Cavoodles can be lower shedding than pure Cavaliers, but they are not completely “hypoallergenic”. For allergy sufferers I would suggest interacting with the breed first.
Allergy sufferers find Cavoodles more tolerable than other breeds, but success will depend on the individual dog and the person’s level of sensitivity.”
Can you give some grooming tips for Cavoodles? What should I look out for?
“Cavoodle coats require regular care to stay healthy, tangle free and comfortable. Regular brushing, trimming or grooming, ear/eye care are highly recommended. Look out for matting, ear infections, dry or itchy skin and tear stains.”
Are tear stains common in Cavoodles and how are they managed?
“Tear stains are very common in Cavoodles. It is mostly a cosmetic issue but can sometimes indicate underlying health concerns, so it is important to manage them properly. Managing tear stains can be achieved by daily cleaning, keeping hair trimmed around the eyes, checking tear ducts, diet and water.”
About Knose Partner Breeders
In Australia, dog breeding is closely regulated to protect animal welfare and ensure that every puppy is raised in a safe, healthy environment.
At Knose, we partner only with breeders who meet Australia’s standards. Through ongoing education, resources, seminars, and partnerships, they continue to enrich their breeding practices and place animal wellbeing at the heart of everything they do.
We believe transparency is essential. New pet parents should feel fully informed—from understanding hereditary or breed-related health considerations to knowing what kind of care and training a specific breed may need.
The shared goal of our partner breeders is simple: to give every puppy the best possible start in life and every new owner the confidence that their newest family member has been raised with care, integrity, and love.
Terms, conditions, limits and exclusions apply. See the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) and Target Market Determination (TMD) at knose.com.au for full details. Knose Pet Insurance is issued by Pacific International Insurance Pty Ltd (ABN 83 169 311 193, AFSL 523921). Breeders may receive a referral fee if you purchase or transfer a policy.
