Choosing the perfect dog for your family can be a challenge, especially with so many adorable breeds out there. As an experienced dog parent and passionate dog lover working at PawsAndTheCityNYC, a dog grooming business, I understand how crucial it is to find a furry friend that fits your lifestyle. In this article, we’ll compare two popular hybrid breeds: the Havapoo and the Cavapoo.

Both are delightful and affectionate, but each has unique traits that might make one more suitable for you than the other. Whether you’re drawn to their friendly personalities, manageable size, or hypoallergenic coats, we’ll help you make an informed decision on which breed is right for you.

Havapoo vs Cavapoo: Which Is Right For You?

The main difference between a Havapoo and a Cavapoo lies in their parent breeds and resulting characteristics. A Havapoo, a mix of Havanese and Poodle, typically has a more playful and energetic demeanor. At the same time, a Cavapoo, a cross between a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a Poodle, is known for its gentle and affectionate nature. Both breeds are small, hypoallergenic, and intelligent, but Havapoos often display a higher energy level and need more playtime, making them ideal for active families. In contrast, Cavapoos are better suited for those seeking a calm, cuddly companion that gets along well with children and other pets.

About Havapoos

A Havapoo, also known as a Havadoodle or Poovanese, is a delightful hybrid breed resulting from the cross between a Havanese and a Poodle, typically a Miniature or Toy Poodle. This breed combines the best traits of both parent breeds, creating a charming, intelligent, and affectionate companion.

Overview of the Havapoo Breed (Havanese and Poodle Mix)

The Havapoo is a designer dog breed that has gained popularity due to its friendly nature, manageable size, and hypoallergenic coat. Both the Havanese and the Poodle are known for their intelligence and sociability, making the Havapoo an excellent choice for families, singles, and seniors alike.

Common Physical Traits and Characteristics

• Size: Havapoos are small dogs, typically weighing between 8-15 pounds and standing 9-12 inches tall at the shoulder.
• Coat Type: They have a wavy or curly coat that is hypoallergenic, making them a good choice for allergy sufferers. Their coat can vary from soft and silky to more curly, depending on the Poodle parent.
• Coat Colors: Havapoos come in a variety of colors, including black, white, brown, cream, apricot, and mixed colors. Their coat colors can change as they mature.
• Appearance: They usually have a compact and sturdy build with a cute, expressive face, often featuring the almond-shaped eyes of the Havanese and the curly or wavy coat of the Poodle.

General Temperament and Behavior

• Friendly and Affectionate: Havapoos are known for their friendly and affectionate nature. They enjoy being around people and are great with children and other pets.
• Playful: These dogs are playful and energetic, making them great companions for playtime and outdoor activities.
• Intelligent and Eager to Please: Havapoos are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train. They respond well to positive reinforcement and enjoy learning new tricks and commands.
• Sociable: They are sociable dogs that thrive on human interaction and can suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for long periods.
• Adaptable: Havapoos are adaptable to various living situations, whether in apartments or houses with yards, as long as they get enough exercise and mental stimulation.

About Cavapoos

A Cavapoo, also known as a Cavoodle or Cavadoodle, is a popular hybrid breed that results from crossing a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel with a Poodle, typically a Miniature or Toy Poodle. This breed is cherished for its friendly demeanor, intelligence, and hypoallergenic coat, making it a favored choice for families and individuals alike.

Overview of the Cavapoo Breed (Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Poodle Mix)

The Cavapoo combines the best traits of its parent breeds, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and the Poodle, resulting in a dog that is not only adorable but also versatile and well-suited for various living environments. This breed is known for its affectionate nature and adaptability, making it a great companion for people of all ages.

Common Physical Traits and Characteristics

• Size: Cavapoos are small to medium-sized dogs, typically weighing between 9-25 pounds and standing 9-14 inches tall at the shoulder.
• Coat Type: They have a wavy or curly coat that is hypoallergenic, making them suitable for people with allergies. The coat texture can vary from soft and silky to more curly, reflecting the Poodle influence.
• Coat Colors: Cavapoos come in a range of colors, including black, white, brown, apricot, and mixed colors. Their coat colors can also change as they age.
• Appearance: Cavapoos usually have a sturdy yet compact build with a sweet, expressive face. They often inherit the large, round eyes of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and the curly or wavy coat of the Poodle.

General Temperament and Behavior

• Friendly and Gentle: Cavapoos are known for their friendly and gentle nature. They form strong bonds with their families and are excellent with children and other pets.
• Affectionate: These dogs are highly affectionate and love to be around their human companions. They thrive on attention and enjoy cuddling.
• Intelligent and Trainable: Cavapoos are intelligent and eager to please, which makes them relatively easy to train. They respond well to positive reinforcement and enjoy learning new commands and tricks.
• Playful: They are playful and energetic, enjoying activities such as fetch, walks, and playtime with their owners.
• Sociable: Cavapoos are friendly dogs that get along well with other animals and people. They are generally good-natured and enjoy socializing.
• Adaptable: They adapt well to various living conditions, whether in an apartment or a house with a yard. As long as they receive adequate exercise and mental stimulation, they can thrive in different environments.

Choosing Between Havapoo and Caavapoo

Choosing between a Havapoo and a Cavapoo depends on your lifestyle, preferences, and specific needs. Both breeds offer unique qualities that make them suitable for different types of pet owners. Here’s a detailed guide to help you decide which breed might be the right fit for you:

Who Should Choose a Havapoo?

• Active Families: Havapoos are energetic and playful, making them a great choice for families with children who can match their enthusiasm. Their lively nature ensures they will keep up with active households.
• Allergy Sufferers: With their hypoallergenic coats, Havapoos are an excellent option for people with allergies. Regular grooming helps maintain their coat and minimize shedding.
• First-Time Dog Owners: Havapoos are intelligent and eager to please, which makes them relatively easy to train. Their friendly disposition and adaptability make them suitable for novice dog owners.
• Apartment Dwellers: Despite their energy, Havapoos adapt well to apartment living as long as they receive sufficient exercise and mental stimulation. Regular walks and playtime are essential.
• Individuals Seeking a Lively Companion: If you’re looking for a dog that will engage in play and provide constant companionship, a Havapoo might be the right choice. They thrive on interaction and enjoy being part of family activities.

Who Should Go for a Cavapoo?

• Families with Young Children: Cavapoos are gentle and affectionate, making them an ideal choice for families with young children. Their calm demeanor and loving nature ensure they bond well with kids.
• Seniors or Singles: Cavapoos’ friendly and adaptable nature makes them perfect for seniors or single individuals seeking a loyal companion. They enjoy cuddling and are content with moderate exercise.
• People with Allergies: Like Havapoos, Cavapoos have hypoallergenic coats that are suitable for allergy sufferers. Regular grooming is necessary to keep their coats in good condition.
• Pet Owners Looking for a Gentle Dog: If you prefer a dog with a calm and gentle disposition, the Cavapoo is a great choice. They are known for their friendly and sociable nature, making them easy to integrate into various living situations.
• Homebodies: Cavapoos are content with a balanced mix of playtime and relaxation. If you spend a lot of time at home and want a dog that enjoys both activity and downtime, a Cavapoo would fit well into your lifestyle.

General Considerations

Choose a Havapoo if you want a lively, playful dog that thrives on interaction and can keep up with an active lifestyle. Opt for a Cavapoo if you seek a gentle, affectionate companion that gets along well with children and adapts easily to different living conditions. Both breeds are intelligent, hypoallergenic, and make wonderful pets, so consider your specific needs and preferences to make the best choice for your family.