What Problems Do Cavoodles Have?

Cavoodle health would be on the top of anyone’s minds. Our pets become a part of us and the last thing we want to face is cavoodle health issues financially or emotionally.

Before I get started with cavoodle health information please let me add a disclaimer. I am not a vet, I cannot determine the health of your animal or predict its future. So please read this as a clue, not a solution, and always seek medical assistance.

What is the average lifespan of a Cavoodle?

The average life expectancy of a healthy Cavoodle is 11 to 16 years.

Should I get a DAN test before I get a Cavoodle puppy?

A DNA test is used to screen dogs for identity, parentage, pedigree, coat color, hair, bobtails, and most importantly disease.

Your DNA test results will give you one of three possible outcomes. Everything will be clear and normal meaning the disease-causing gene is not present and cannot be passed on. It could be a carrier which means it may not exhibit disease symptoms or have medical problems, but it has a 50% chance of passing it on. Lately, it could be affected. This means both of the genes carry the disease and the dog will be medically affected as well as passing it on to offspring.

DNA testing is generally carried out by breeders or veterinarians. A breeder will usually offer this because they care about the welfare of the breed. If your breeder doesn’t offer this they may be more in it for the money.

What are some common Cavoodle health problems ?

The Cavoodle or Cavapoo is predisposed to some of the conditions that the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Poodle also face. Most Cavoodles are healthy, but some of the more common Cavoodle health issues include:

Congenital – Heart attacks

Progressive retinal atrophy – Deterioration of the retina. Most dogs adapt to being blind.

Slipping kneecaps – Kneecap shifts out of place as the leg bends or straightens.

Dermatitis –  Skin allergies

Syringomyelia – When the cavoodles skull cavity is too small for the brain. It’s unable to be diagnosed until after 6 months, so unfortunately you won’t be able to tell with a cavoodle puppy.

Degenerative Mitral Valve Disease – Heart valves are too short allowing blood to leak into the atrium. Ask your breeder if your cavoodle puppy’s parents have this.

Hip dysplasia – Decreased activity starts when the ball and socket joint of the hip has not been properly formed, resulting in a loose connection.

Epilepsy – Unknown seizures. Treatment is available.

Do Cavoodles have breathing problems?

Dog breeds with flat faces known as brachycephalic breeds, like the Pug and Pekinese, are highly likely to suffer from breathing issues and damage to their eyeballs. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniels with their short muzzles are considered by many to be a brachycephalic breed but the Poodle parent of Cavoodles contributes to a longer muzzle. This means you’re Cavoole should be protected from developing the issues associated with having a flat face.

If you are wondering Can Cavoodles be left alone during the day? Or Are Cavoodles barkers? Check out our other articles.