Guides · Health
Common Cavapoo Health Problems to Know
Crossbreeds aren't automatically healthier — a Cavapoo can inherit issues from both parent breeds. Knowing what they are helps you choose a puppy wisely and spot problems early.
The "crossbreeds are healthier" myth
You'll often hear that mixing two breeds cancels out health problems. It's only half true. Crossing can reduce the risk of some conditions caused by a narrow gene pool, but a Cavapoo can still inherit conditions common to either parent breed. That's precisely why buying from a breeder who health-tests both parents matters so much — it's not a guarantee, but it stacks the odds heavily in your favour.
Conditions from the Cavalier side
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are predisposed to a couple of serious conditions that can pass down:
- Mitral valve disease (MVD): a common heart condition in Cavaliers. Responsible breeders heart-test their dogs, which is why you should ask for cardiac clearances.
- Syringomyelia (SM): a neurological condition related to skull shape. It's why reputable Cavalier and Cavapoo breeders screen for it.
Organisations like The Kennel Club publish the relevant screening schemes — a good breeder will happily talk you through their results.
Conditions from the Poodle side
From the Poodle line, watch for:
- Patellar luxation: slipping kneecaps, common in small dogs — often manageable but sometimes needing surgery.
- Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) and other eye conditions: there's a DNA test for PRA, so ask if the parents were screened.
- Hip dysplasia: less common in small dogs but worth knowing about; hip scoring exists for it.
Everyday niggles: ears, eyes and teeth
Beyond the inherited conditions, Cavapoos are prone to a few routine issues. Their floppy, hairy ears trap moisture and can get infections (check weekly). They're prone to tear staining and can inherit eye sensitivities. And like all small breeds, dental disease is extremely common — small mouths mean crowded teeth, so regular tooth-brushing and dental checks genuinely matter. Our grooming guide covers the ear and eye routine.
How to reduce the risks
You can't remove every risk, but you can stack the deck:
- Buy from a health-testing breeder — see both parents, ask for heart, eye, knee and relevant DNA results.
- Keep your dog lean — excess weight worsens joint and heart problems. See our feeding guide.
- Stay on top of preventive care — vaccinations, parasite control, dental care and annual vet checks.
- Consider lifetime insurance early — the cost guide explains why.
And as they age, a little extra vigilance goes a long way — our senior care guide covers what to watch for.