Cockapoo vs Cavapoo — Complete Breed Comparison Guide
- 17 hours ago
- 2 min read

Cockapoo vs Cavapoo Quick Comparison
Size
Cockapoo — Small to medium range
Cavapoo — Typically smaller
Energy Level
Cockapoo — High
Cavapoo — Moderate
Temperament
Cockapoo — Playful, outgoing
Cavapoo — Gentle, affectionate
Grooming Needs
Both — Moderate to high
Apartment Suitability
Cockapoo — Often suitable
Cavapoo — Very suitable
Training Ease
Both — Highly trainable
Size and Physical Appearance
Cockapoo Size
Cockapoos vary depending on parent lineage, but generally:
25–38 cm height
5–11 kg weight
Their appearance ranges widely, with coat textures from wavy to curly.
Cavapoo Size
Cavapoos are usually more consistent:
23–35 cm height
4–9 kg weight
They often display softer facial features and a more compact build.
Choosing Based on Size
Those seeking predictability and smaller stature may prefer Cavapoos, while owners comfortable with size variability may enjoy Cockapoos.

Temperament and Personality Differences
Temperament is often the biggest deciding factor.
Cockapoo Personality Traits
Energetic
Playful
Socially curious
Thrives on stimulation
Cockapoos often require engagement and interactive play.
Cavapoo Personality Traits
Affectionate
Emotionally intuitive
Calm and gentle
Companion-oriented
Cavapoos frequently prioritise bonding over play intensity.
Interaction Style
Cockapoos often initiate activity. Cavapoos often seek closeness.
Exercise Requirements
Cockapoo Exercise Needs
Cockapoos benefit from:
Daily walks
Play sessions
Mental enrichment
Without activity, they may develop boredom behaviours.
Cavapoo Exercise Needs
Cavapoos still require daily movement but generally:
Lower intensity
Shorter sessions
This makes them appealing for less active owners.

Grooming and Coat Care
Both mixes inherit coat maintenance needs.
Typical requirements include:
Brushing several times weekly
Regular trimming
Professional grooming
Cockapoo Grooming Variation
Coat texture unpredictability may increase maintenance variability.
Cavapoo Grooming
Often slightly softer and more consistent coat types.
Family Compatibility
Both breeds integrate well into households.
Cockapoos with Families
Great for active children
Playful engagement
Interactive personalities
Cavapoos with Families
Gentle companions
Suitable for quieter homes
Excellent emotional bonds
Living Environment Suitability
Apartment Living
Both can adapt with exercise, though:
Cavapoos excel in smaller homes
Cockapoos may require more stimulation
Larger Homes
Cockapoos particularly benefit from space for play.
Trainability and Intelligence
Both inherit strong cognitive ability from Poodle ancestry.
Training characteristics include:
Quick learning
Responsiveness to positive reinforcement
Social motivation
Cockapoos may display higher curiosity-driven engagement. Cavapoos may display higher handler attachment.

Emotional Compatibility
This is often overlooked but important.
Cockapoos provide:
Entertainment
Playfulness
Activity companionship
Cavapoos provide:
Emotional closeness
Calm presence
Comfort-driven companionship
Tips for Choosing Between Them
🐾 Assess your energy level
🏡 Consider home size
👨👩👧 Evaluate family dynamic
🧼 Prepare for grooming commitment
❤️ Reflect on companionship expectations
These factors outweigh minor appearance differences.
Final Thoughts
Both Cockapoos and Cavapoos offer intelligence, affection, and companionship. The right choice depends on lifestyle alignment rather than breed superiority.
Choose a Cockapoo if you want energetic interaction and playful engagement. Choose a Cavapoo if you prefer gentle closeness and calmer companionship.
Careful consideration ensures long-term happiness for both owner and dog.
