Are Cavapoos and Cavachons Good with Kids, Cats, and Other Pets?

Learn how Cavapoos and Cavachons interact with kids, cats, and other pets. Top breeder Terry Cross shares insights on introducing your puppy to the family with confidence.

Intro:

Adding a new puppy to the family is a big decision—especially when you already have other pets or small children at home. Naturally, you want a dog who will fit in, not cause chaos.

So, are Cavapoos and Cavachons good with kids and other animals?

As someone who’s raised both breeds for decades and placed puppies in hundreds of homes, I can wholeheartedly say: Yes—they're some of the best family dogs you’ll find.

But like all good relationships, successful introductions take time, guidance, and a little know-how. Here’s what to expect—and how to help your new puppy become a loving member of your multi-species household.

👶 Kids + Cavapoos & Cavachons = A Beautiful Bond

Both breeds have the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel at their core—a breed famous for its affectionate, people-oriented nature. That gentleness carries through, making Cavapoos and Cavachons naturally drawn to children.

They’re:

• Patient and soft-mouthed, less likely to nip when overstimulated

• Small, but sturdy, ideal for snuggles without being too fragile

• Eager to please, which makes them highly trainable—even by older kids

That said, I always remind parents that puppies and kids need supervision. Puppies don’t understand boundaries yet, and small children sometimes treat them more like plush toys than tiny, sentient creatures.

Teach children:

• How to pet gently (avoiding ears, tail, and face at first)

• Not to wake a sleeping puppy or pick them up unsupervised

• How to use commands like “sit” and offer treats with an open palm

Give them jobs they can feel proud of—feeding, brushing, helping with training. This creates a partnership, not just a novelty.

💬 “I love seeing the sparkle in a child’s eyes when their puppy chooses to curl up beside them. That kind of bond, formed with kindness and routine, often lasts a lifetime.” – Terry

🐱 Living with Cats: Can Cavapoos or Cavachons Be Cat-Friendly?

Yes—and more often than not, they absolutely can!

Cavapoos and Cavachons tend to have lower prey drives than many other small breeds. This means they're less likely to chase or harass cats out of instinct. Of course, that doesn’t mean it’s love at first sight.

Tips for smooth introductions:

• Give your cat vertical space (cat trees, perches) to escape or observe from a safe place

• Use baby gates or exercise pens to let your puppy observe from a distance at first

• Keep your puppy leashed indoors for the first few encounters

• Let the cat approach at their own pace—never force it

Cats are often curious but cautious. Puppies are enthusiastic but clueless. With gentle supervision, they typically work it out beautifully.

🐕 Introducing Another Dog to Your Puppy

Whether it’s a senior dog or another playful pup, the same golden rules apply: neutral ground, slow intros, and lots of praise.

What makes Cavapoos and Cavachons shine here is their:

• Friendly, social temperament

• Non-dominant personality

• Desire to be part of a pack

Tips:

• Let them meet outside first, on leashes, for a walk side by side

• Avoid toys or food during initial intros to prevent resource guarding

• Watch body language—wagging tails and soft eyes = yes. Stiff posture or growling = slow down.

I’ve had clients introduce my puppies to everything from Great Danes to Chihuahuas—and it’s the temperament match and thoughtful intro that makes all the difference.

🐾 What About Rabbits, Guinea Pigs, or Chickens?

This one’s more nuanced.

Small pets that move quickly (and smell delicious to a dog’s nose) can be seen as prey if not introduced carefully. But I’ve had many puppy families successfully raise Cavapoos and Cavachons in homes with:

• Rabbits

• Ferrets

• Goats

• Free-range chickens!

The key is:

• Supervision (especially during the first few months)

• Barriers when you’re not present

• Consistent “leave it” training starting early

• Teaching the puppy calm behavior around small animals

These breeds are incredibly trainable and, when raised alongside other animals, often form sweet, unlikely friendships.

Final Thoughts from Terry

At the heart of every good introduction is patience and leadership. Your puppy is watching you to see what’s normal and safe—and when you set the tone early, they learn to navigate their new family with confidence.

Whether you’re a household full of kids, a cat lover, or a multi-pet menagerie, Cavapoos and Cavachons are the kind of dogs who don’t just fit in—they thrive.

Have questions about introducing your new puppy to your crew? I’m always happy to help.

Warmest wags,
Terry