Our three Cavoodle hair types
Cavoodles are a unique breed, and because they're a cross between a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a Poodle, they can inherit traits from either parent. This means their coat type is never guaranteed, just like how humans can pass on characteristics to their own offspring.
Wool
Cavoodles with wool coats have tightly curled fur that resembles lamb's wool and require the most maintenance and grooming. This type of coat is often referred to as a Poodle coat due to its similar appearance. These Cavoodles have thin legs, curled fur, and a longer snout, with shorter ears similar to those of a Poodle. They are generally smaller in size with a lighter weight due to their compact frame, and are typically the result of breeding a Cavoodle with a Poodle, resulting in an F1b Cavoodle.
Fleece
The fleece coat, also known as wavy coats, is the most common coat type in Cavoodle and Poodle mixed breeds. This coat type features soft and silky wavy curls that may become curlier with age. Fleece coats shed very little, making them a good option for people with allergies. They require less maintenance than wool coats but more effort than hair coats. First-generation Cavoodles often have fleece coats, which are characterized by long, wavy locks or loose curls. This coat type requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling, and regular clipping to maintain its health and appearance.
Straight
Straight haired Cavoodle coat type, which is the least common of three. It has a wiry texture inherited from the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel parent. Their hair coats shed more than other types and may not be suitable for those with allergies. However, they are low maintenance as they are less prone to matting and tangling. They can resemble the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel parent with droopy ears, and have a short, wavy fur similar to a long-haired Terrier. This type of Cavoodle can be found in both first and second generation breeding lines.
Grooming Maintenance
Cavoodles are adorable and playful dogs that require regular grooming to keep their coat healthy and shiny. Daily brushing at home, regular haircuts, and coat clipping are all recommended to keep your Cavoodle coat in ideal shape.
Wool
To keep your Cavoodle's wool coat healthy, it's crucial to brush it daily to prevent matting and tangling. Use a curved slicker or pin brush, and consider using a detangling spray beforehand. Brush from the base of the coat to prevent tangles near the skin. Regular brushing will prevent large mats from forming, which may require extensive brushing or shaving. Additionally, wool coats grow constantly, so regular professional grooming every 6-8 weeks is recommended. To maintain your Cavoodle's coat, combine daily brushing at home with regular haircuts and coat clipping.
Fleece
To maintain a healthy and comfortable Cavoodle fleece coat, regular grooming is necessary. Brush your Cavoodle at least once a week, ideally every 2-3 days, to prevent tangling and matting. Use a slicker brush and focus on areas prone to matting such as the armpits, neck, chest, and ears. If serious matting occurs, use your hands and a comb to gently work out the mats, avoiding pulling on the hair. If this doesn't work, take your Cavapoo to a groomer. Additionally, consider shaving the coat twice a year, with one shave during warmer months, and trimming every 6-8 weeks if not shaved.
Straight
Cavoodle's with straight hair coats, also require regular brushing to prevent a lot of shedding. Brushing every few weeks is recommended, but once a week is ideal. Use a slicker brush or steel comb to keep the coat healthy. For optimal grooming, visit a groomer every few months for a haircut, bath, and brushing, and brush weekly at home.
