Last Updated on October 9, 2026
Getting your dog from a reputable breeder is the first step towards enjoying the best things about Cavoodles for many years to come.
Breeders who take their lines seriously produce healthy litters and breed out genetic problems over time. If you are adopting rather than buying, that part is out of your hands, but the general advice for keeping a Cavoodle healthy still applies and gives your dog the best shot at a long life.
Feed your Cavoodle good food
Whether you go with kibble or fresh food is up to you. What matters is that your dog gets the right nutrients each day, with a good balance of protein, carbohydrates and fat.
Steer clear of cheap food loaded with fillers. It works out dearer in the long run, since you end up feeding larger portions to keep your dog at a healthy weight, and even then they may miss out on the nutrients they need.
Keep an eye on their weight
A healthy weight for a Cavoodle depends on whether they come from a Toy or a Miniature Poodle line. Toy Cavoodles generally sit around 4 to 7kg, while Mini Cavoodles are more like 7 to 12kg. Ask your vet about the right range for your dog, and do not panic if they sit a little outside it, since most weight issues come down to simple feeding adjustments.
Stay on top of their hygiene
Good hygiene is about more than a clean, well groomed coat. Pay attention to their teeth and ears too. Brush your Cavoodle's teeth regularly, since small dogs are prone to dental problems, and dry their ears carefully after every bath, because those floppy ears trap moisture and can lead to infections.
Give them plenty of exercise
Cavoodles can be energetic, but it does not take much to meet their needs. A short daily walk is enough to build muscle, support good heart health and keep their energy on an even keel.
Book regular vet check-ups
However well you look after your pup, regular vet visits still matter. A vet can give your dog a thorough once-over and knows the early signs to watch for, so you can catch problems before they get serious. From around nine or ten years of age, Cavoodles are considered senior and benefit from a check-up twice a year.
So how long do Cavoodles live?
On average, Cavoodles live around 12 to 15 years, and some reach 16 or beyond with good care. That is a long run for a dog, helped along by their small size and the hybrid vigour of being a crossbreed. The Poodle side can live up to around 18 years, while the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel side generally lives 12 to 15.
Vet bills tend to grow as a dog gets older, so pet insurance is worth thinking about early. Our Cavoodle cost calculator shows how insurance changes the yearly cost of owning one.
