How to train a Cavapoo Puppy
Cavapoos are adored for their loving personality and intelligence, but like all puppies, they need thoughtful guidance as they grow. A cross between a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a Poodle, Cavapoo puppies are smart, sociable, and full of energy. With gentle, consistent training, your Cavapoo can grow into a happy, obedient companion.
Begin with early socialisation
Although Cavapoos are naturally affectionate, early socialisation is crucial for their development. Introduce your puppy to various experiences, from meeting new people and dogs to hearing different sounds and exploring diverse environments. Puppy training classes can be especially helpful, allowing your Cavapoo to build confidence and learn to stay calm in unfamiliar situations.
Core cues to focus on
Teaching your Cavapoo the basics such as “sit,” “stay,” and “come”—lays the groundwork for long-term good behaviour. These dogs respond best to positive reinforcement: use treats, verbal praise, or gentle petting when they follow your cues. Keep sessions short and fun, and always be patient—Cavapoos want to please you, but their playful energy can lead to distractions.
Lead training for happy walks
Cavapoo puppies are curious explorers, which can make lead training a challenge if not addressed early. Start indoors or in a quiet outdoor area, rewarding them for walking nicely next to you. If your puppy begins to pull, stop walking and wait until they return to your side. Then reward them when they're walking nicely again! Over time, they’ll learn that staying close to you earns them treats and praise.
Crate training for routine and calm
Crate training your Cavapoo can create a safe, relaxing space for them and help with toilet training. Introduce the crate gradually. Leave the door open and encourage your puppy to explore it. Use soft bedding, safe toys, and feed meals inside the crate to build a positive association. Never use the crate for punishment; it should always be a secure, cosy retreat.
Stay Consistent and Gentle
While Cavapoos are quick learners, they’re also sensitive to tone and energy. Consistency and kindness go a long way. Avoid shouting, corrections, or punishments. Instead, calmly redirect unwanted behaviour and celebrate the small wins with enthusiasm. Progress may be slow sometimes, but steady training will help your puppy thrive.
Tools That Help
Before you start training, make sure you have the right tools for success:
- A comfy collar or harness
- A 2-metre training lead
- A supply of bite-sized treats
- A crate with soft bedding
- Durable chew toys
- Grooming brushes (especially important for Cavapoo coats)
These tools can make a big difference in keeping your sessions effective and enjoyable for your puppy.
At Pets4Homes, we understand that every breed has its own unique training challenges and strengths. That’s why we recommend using the free Zigzag puppy training app. With Zigzag, you’ll receive daily, breed-specific training advice created by professional dog trainers, perfect for new Cavapoo owners. Whether you're teaching basic commands, tackling toilet training, or guiding your pup through socialisation, Zigzag makes it easy to raise a well-behaved, joyful dog.
Start training your Cavapoo for free today with Zigzag and enjoy every step of the journey together.
This article was created in collaboration with Zigzag, the #1 app for puppy training.
