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Health Assurance
DNA Tested:
Every Cavoodle puppy is genetically screened via parentage to help prevent hereditary conditions. Learn more
3 Year Health Guarantee:
Each Cavoodle puppy is sold with a 3 Year Genetic Health Guarantee
Fully Vaccinated & Microchipped
Each Cavoodle puppy comes vet-checked, vaccinated and microchipped, and ready to join your family. Learn more
Backed by experience, compassion, and regulatory transparency, our Cavoodle puppies aren’t just adorable — they’re bred well, and built for a lifetime of love.
About OUr Cavoodles
What generation Cavoodles do you breed?
Bredwell Puppies breed First Generation (F1) Toy and Miniature Cavoodles. Find out why here
Are Cavoodles good family dogs?
Yes. Cavoodles have proven to be one of the most popular family dogs in Australia. Learn more
Are you a Licensed or Registered Breeder of Cavoodles?
Yes. We hold Domestic Animal Business license 2025-001 and operate under full compliance with Victorian State Government regulations as a Victorian Minister Approved breeder. Our breeding program is routinely audited by the Chief Veterinary Officer of Victoria, ensuring best-practice standards in animal welfare, health protocols, and ethical care. We are listed on the Victorian Government website as an Approved Breeder.
What is the difference between Toy and Mini Cavoodles?
Toy Cavoodles are a cross between a Toy Poodle and a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel while a Mini Cavoodle is a cross between a Miniature Poodle and a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. Miniature Cavoodles are slightly larger than Toy Cavoodles, usually about 5cm to 10cm taller. Learn more
Cavoodle Notification List
Join our Cavoodle Notification List for alerts on available litters.
Cavoodle Vaccinations
At Bredwell Puppies, all our Cavoodle puppies receive a C5 vaccination as part of their early veterinary care. The C5 vaccine protects against serious canine diseases: canine parvovirus, distemper, hepatitis and bordetella bronchiseptica (a common cause of kennel cough). We choose the C5 because it provides the most comprehensive protection for young puppies, particularly as they begin socialising, travelling, or transitioning into their new homes. Ensuring your Cavoodle has this early coverage helps safeguard their health during the critical early months of life.
Parvo Virus
Canine parvovirus is a highly contagious and potentially fatal viral disease that attacks a dog’s gastrointestinal tract, causing severe vomiting, diarrhoea, and dehydration. Learn more
Kennel Cough (Bordetella Bronchiseptica)
Kennel cough is a contagious respiratory infection in dogs, causing a persistent, dry cough and is commonly spread in places where dogs gather, like kennels or parks. Learn more
Distemper
Canine distemper is a serious and often fatal viral disease that affects a dog’s respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems, leading to symptoms like fever, coughing, vomiting, and seizures. Learn more
Canine Hepatitis
Canine hepatitis is a contagious viral infection caused by canine adenovirus type 1 (CAV-1), affecting the liver, kidneys, and eyes, and can lead to symptoms such as fever, abdominal pain, and jaundice. Learn more
Microchips
At Bredwell Puppies, every Cavoodle puppy is professionally microchipped before going to their new home. Microchipping is a vital part of responsible pet ownership and provides a permanent form of identification that links your puppy to you for life. It ensures that if your Cavoodle is ever lost or separated from you, they can be quickly and safely returned using the national pet registry. We register each microchip with up-to-date breeder and puppy details, giving our families peace of mind and added security.
A microchip is a tiny computer chip about the size of a grain of rice, which has an identification number programmed into it.
The microchip:
- is inert
- has no battery
- uses no energy
- lasts for the life of an animal.
The microchip is injected under the animal’s skin between the shoulder blades. It is a simple procedure when performed by qualified implanters.
To identify the animal, a scanner that reads microchip numbers is passed over the animal’s skin. The scanned number can then be checked against a register, which has details of the animal’s ownership.
Click here for more information about permanent identification technology.
Benefits of microchipping
A microchip provides a permanent form of identification which can quickly reunite owners with lost or injured pets.
This could literally save your pet’s life — sadly, many pets that end up in pounds and shelters are not identified and have to be euthanased because their owners cannot be located.
Microchips cannot be removed or fall off like a traditional collar and tag.
Cavoodle DNA Health Testing
We’ve been breeding dogs for a long time – 30 years in fact. We’ve learnt a lot during that time and have continually adjusted and improved our Cavoodle breeding program. With detailed records and new technology like DNA testing we are able to reduce the risk of health issues in our Cavoodle puppies.
We test for over 30 different genetic diseases.
Diseases we test for include:
Arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC)
Arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC) is a familial cardiac disease characterized by ventricular arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death. It is most frequently inherited as an autosomal dominant trait with incomplete and age-related penetrance and variable clinical expression.
Autosomal Hereditary Recessive Nephropathy
Autosomal Hereditary Recessive Nephropathy (Familial Nephropathy) is an inherited disorder of the kidneys. Symptoms of chronic kidney disease usually start showing between 6 months and 2 years of age. These include excessive thirst and urination, weight loss, fatigue, vomiting, and loss of appetite. Protein is generally not present in urine, however in there is a defect in affected dogs that filters protein from the blood to the kidneys and subsequently lost in the urine. Abnormal amounts of protein can be detected in the urine as early as five months of age. Affected dogs eventually die of chronic kidney failure within a year.
Canine Hyperuricosuria
Dogs with variations in both copies of the SLC2A9 gene(variant) are predisposed to have elevated levels of uric acid in the urine, hence the name hyperuricosuria. Uric acid can form crystals and/or stones (uroliths) in the urinary tract. Dogs with hyperuricosuria most commonly present with symptoms of recurrent urinary tract inflammation, which include frequent urination, blood in the urine, and straining to urinate. They may also have loss of appetite, lethargy, weakness, vomiting and pain. Urinary stones in the bladder can cause urinary tract infections or more seriously, blockage of the Urethra. Both male and female dogs can be affected, but obstruction of urine flow is more common in males due to differences in anatomy.
Canine leucocyte adhesion deficiency (CLAD)
Canine leucocyte adhesion deficiency (CLAD) is an autosomal recessive disorder that has been documented in Irish setters and a few Irish setter crosses. It is a rare disease that is similar to LAD in humans, and is caused by a defect of the white blood cells (or leucocytes) of the immune system. The white blood cells lack a certain surface protein or receptor called CD18, which means that when there is an infection in the body somewhere these white blood cells cannot respond properly. They are unable to interact in a cell-to-cell or cell-to-matrix manner, so cannot migrate from the blood vessels to the site of infection, or fight infection at the site. This condition is caused by a mutation in the ITGB2 gene, which encodes the integrin beta 2 subunit (CD18). Carriers who have one copy of the mutation show no clinical signs, while dogs with two copies of the mutation (affected) develop clinical disease and generally die by the age of six months. A genetic test is available to screen breeding animals for this devastating disease. Clinical signs are seen in young puppies, often at less than 12 weeks of age. The average age of presentation to a veterinarian is 13.5 weeks. Signs include recurrent infections, including umbilical infections, fever, inappetance, poor growth, impaired wound healing and enlarged lymph nodes. Superficial infection of the gums with salivation is common, and as the disease progresses the jaw bone can become thickened. Lameness and swelling of the distal limb bones can also be seen. A characteristic sign is skin infections without purulent exudates. Infections initially respond to antibiotics, but recur once medication finishes. Antibiotics become less effective as time goes on. Puppies generally succumb by the age of six months. Pathology testing will show that the white cell count is high, because the bone marrow is still producing white blood cells but because they cannot move into tissue to fight infections there are higher than normal numbers in the blood, and a neutrophilia with left shift is common. Treatment with gene therapy (i.e. stem cell therapy to introduce stem cells infused with normal CD18-producing capability) has shown success, with clinical signs resolving in treated puppies. Limited availability and high cost of such treatment means it is rarely used at the present time, but shows great promise for the future.
Cerebellar Ataxia
This is a neurologic condition, and has been reported in a number of breeds. It is an inherited disease and in many affected breeds signs appear in young puppies, however in a few breeds signs do not appear until they are several months old, or even when they are several years old. Abiotrophy literally means loss of vital nutritional substances, which are needed by the cell. A certain type of cell called the Purkinje cell in the cerebellum is affected by this disease, and the progressive loss of these cells means the cerebellum can no longer do its job properly. The cerebellum is responsible for coordinating balance and movement, and the first signs are usually loss of balance, trouble cornering and falling over when shaking the head. Often affected animals will have a tremor that disappears when they are resting – this is often most noticeable in the head. The disease is slowly progressive, and eventually dogs cannot walk without falling repeatedly, or cannot rise to their feet. Some mildly affected animals may progress slowly and be able to be managed as house pets, however most dogs require euthanasia at some stage due to a deterioration of their condition to the point where their quality of life is unreasonably poor. While the signs of cerebellar abiotrophy are similar in all breeds, the age of onset of signs and the rate at which the disease progresses do differ quite a lot from breed to breed.
Congenital hypothyroidism
Congenital hypothyroidism with goiter (CHG) is an inherited disease affecting dogs. Affected dogs lack an Enzyme that is important in the production of thyroid hormone which is necessary for the normal development and metabolism of dogs. At 3-8 weeks of age, dogs with CHG are generally noted to have reduced movement and to be small when compared to their littermates. Enlarged thyroid glands (goiter) are often noticeable as a swelling on the neck. Affected puppies exhibit dwarfism with short legs, large heads, and fluffy hair coats absent of guard hairs. In addition, affected dogs develop a wide variety of neurological and neuromuscular deficits. The condition progresses to failure to thrive and death. Most symptoms can be prevented or will regress if the condition is diagnosed early and affected dogs are treated with thyroid hormone medication. However, the thyroid glands may continue to enlarge over time despite treatment and can eventually obstruct the dog’s airway.
Cystinuria
Cystinuria is an inherited disorder affecting the kidney tubules. The defect is inherited in an autosomal recessive manner, so two copies of the abnormal gene must be present (one from each parent) for disease to occur. When this happens the kidneys are unable to properly resorb the amino acid cysteine from the fluid that will become urine as they usually would (along with several other amino acids). Cysteine therefore accumulates in the urine, and in acidic urine it can form crystals, which can then clump together and eventually form solid stones (called calculi, or uroliths). Stones in the bladder irritate the mucosal lining, and cause inflammation, bleeding and pain. This may lead to blood in the urine, pain urinating (causing small frequent attempts to urinate) or sometimes no clinical signs at all that an owner would notice. It is more commonly seen in males than females, except in the Newfoundland, where both sexes are affected equally. The Newfoundland suffers from a more severe form of the disease than other breeds, and stones may form by the time the dog is 5-6 months old. (In most predisposed breeds signs are seen around 4-5 years of age on average.) The Newfoundland also does not respond to treatment as well as most other breeds, and stones tend to recur fairly quickly. Stones in the bladder can make dogs prone to urinary tract infections. In males stones can lodge in the urethra, causing a blockage to urine flow. This is because males have a longer and narrower urethra than females. When no urine can be passed at all this is a medical emergency – kidney failure and coma follow, and then death is the ultimate result. Cystinuria is diagnosed via specialised tests on the urine, such as the nitroprusside spot test. This may be done when signs of lower urinary tract infection and/or irritation are recurring. Cystine stones are not easy to see on x-rays, as there is not much mineral in them. Commonly an ultrasound of the bladder or a contrast study of the bladder is required to detect cystine stones. There are drugs that can be used to try to dissolve cystine stones, but they are associated with a number of side effects. Surgical removal may be required in a number of cases. Recurrence will occur unless management is undertaken to try to prevent cysteine accumulating in the urine. This includes feeding a low protein diet, using drugs to help manage cysteine levels in the urine, and increasing fluid intake to help induce a flushing action of the bladder.
Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome
A congenital condition in the CKCS that affects the skin, eyes and nails is the syndrome known as congenital keratoconjunctivitis sicca and ichthyosiform dermatosis (CKCSID), or more commonly referred to as “dry eye curly coat syndrome”. Reduced production of aqueous tears and tear film qualitative abnormalities result in a tacky mucoid or mucopurulent ocular discharge and ulceration of the cornea in severe cases. Persistent scale along the dorsal spine and flanks with a harsh, frizzy and alopecic coat is evident in the first few months of life, often causing the dog to scratch. Ventral abdominal skin becomes hyperpigmented and hyperkeratinised in adulthood.
Episodic falling syndrome (EFS)
Episodic falling syndrome (EFS) is an inherited condition affecting dogs. Episodes usually begin between 14 weeks and 4 years of age and are often associated with exercise, excitement or frustration. However, these episodes can occur at any time or under any circumstance. EFS is a disorder of the muscles that causes increased muscle tone and muscle spasticity (especially those of the limbs) resulting in limbs that appear “locked” in an extended position. This muscle spasticity results in a characteristic “praying” position and/or collapse. Episodes are usually a few seconds to several minutes in length and resolve on their own. Affected dogs appear neurologically normal between episodes. The severity and number of episodes vary over the course of the dog’s life and do not follow a specific progression pattern.
Exercise Induced Collapse
This is an autosomal recessive condition that affects Labradors, as well as several other related breeds. The condition is also seen in mixed breeds, mainly Labrador crosses. The condition is not common, although it is estimated up to 35% of the Labrador population (in the USA) may be carriers of the gene mutation that causes the disease (ie mutation of the dynamin-1 gene). Signs are usually first seen in young adults, between 6 months and 3 years of age. With vigorous exercise lasting 5-20 minutes, a loss of control becomes apparent in the hind limbs. Starting as a wobbly gait, the loss of control progresses to collapse, and sometimes dogs may seem confused. Occasional deaths have been reported, so it is important that exercise is stopped as soon as signs first appear. Excitement and high temperatures and/or humidity may exacerbate signs. There are sporadic reports of various supplements having some positive effect in a small number of dogs, as well as one report of sub-anticonvulsant doses of phenobarbitone being useful in some severely affected dogs; however there is currently no proven reliable cure or treatment for this disease. All affected animals should be withdrawn from work and should avoid situations involving excitement and/or stress.
Fucosidosis
Fucosidosis is a metabolic disorder resulting from an inherited lack of the enzyme alpha-L-fucosidase, and is inherited as an autosomal recessive trait. This disease affects English springer spaniels, and is more common in the UK and Australia, although it is still seen in North America and Europe as well. Lack of this enzyme means that complex sugars and glycoproteins that have a terminal fucose sugar cannot be broken down, and these substances accumulate inside cells. This accumulation is most important in the cells of the brain and in nerve cells, as it interferes with their normal function, and is what causes the clinical signs seen with this disease. Clinical signs are normal seen in young adults, from 1 – 4 years of age. The most commonly seen signs include incoordination, loss of balance, ataxia (wobbly gait), a loss of learned behaviour and a change in temperament, depression, and visual and/or hearing loss. There may also be a difficulty in swallowing food, or regurgitation due to oesophageal dysfunction. The condition is progressive over a number of months, and is eventually fatal. The disease can be diagnosed by measuring alpha-L-fucosidase levels in the blood, however there is a DNA test available which allows for rapid diagnosis as well as screening of breeding animals to prevent affected animals being produced. There is no cure for fucosidosis, and it cannot be treated successfully.
Factor VII deficiency
Factor VII deficiency is a blood clotting disorder that causes excessive or prolonged bleeding after an injury or surgery. With factor VII deficiency, your body either doesn’t produce enough factor VII, or something is interfering with your factor VII, often another medical condition. Factor VII is a protein produced in the liver that plays an important role in helping your blood to clot. It’s one of about 20 clotting factors involved in the complex process of blood clotting. To understand factor VII deficiency, it helps to understand the role factor VII plays in normal blood clotting.
Globoid cell leukodystrophy
Globoid cell leukodystrophy, or Krabbe disease, is a severe, autosomal recessive disorder resulting from a deficiency of galactocerebrosidase (GALC) activity. This is a type of storage disease seen in the West Highland white terrier and is inherited as an autosomal recessive disease. It is seen in young animals, who lack a critical enzyme in brain cells, resulting in accumulation of an abnormal substance within certain cells in the brain. Affected animals are born normal, but changes are normally seen by 11 – 30 weeks of age. The white matter of the cerebrum and cerebellum is affected, and on brain scans appears much reduced in size. This results in muscle weakness and ataxia (incoordination in the gait) which starts in the hind limbs and later moves to the front legs. Muscle tremors are seen, pups have trouble standing or walking, and behavioural changes can also occur. This disease is rapidly progressive, and will be fatal in the breed within a few months. There is no cure, but a DNA test is available to enable screening of animals prior to breeding. This should allow for prevention of the condition by not breeding two carriers together
Hereditary Cataract
Most cases of cataract in dogs are of an inherited form. This disease causes cloudiness in the lens of the eye. This cloudiness may be located in the centre of the lens, or towards the front or the back of the lens. Inherited cataract is almost always bilateral (that is, in both eyes). The disease can become apparent over a wide range of ages, ranging from when the puppy first opens its eyes to around 6-8 years of age. Cataracts that develop at or around birth are termed congenital cataract. Those that develop in dogs under 2 years of age are called juvenile cataract, while those developing in dogs between 2-6 years are termed adult onset cataract. Those that develop in dogs older than 8 years are generally not of an inherited nature, and may sometimes be due to other disease (e.g. diabetes mellitus). Cataract may also progress (get worse) at varying rates, resulting in initial blurred vision which may often progress to complete blindness. Some cataracts may progress very rapidly. It also may not progress much at all, and this is termed static cataract. Congenital cataracts may be static in nature or they may progress. They may be inherited, or may be secondary to other inherited defects (e.g. persistent pupillary membrane or persistent hyaloid artery) or secondary to in utero infections, toxicities or other foetal trauma. Cataract is diagnosed by eye exam once it is present in the lens, and by ruling out other causes. There are DNA tests available for the inherited form of cataract in some breeds. Most cataracts can be treated surgically, and the earlier this is performed the better the prognosis is, and the less chance there is for complications. An intraocular replacement lens is often placed, which helps improve post-surgical vision. Breeding programs in breeds where cataract is a major concern should involve ensuring parents are clear by screening. Most areas will have a recognised registration program for inherited eye diseases, which is strongly recommended for breeders to participate in. In Australia, the Australian Veterinary Association runs the Australian Canine Eye Scheme (ACES), while breeders in the USA can certify their dogs via the Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF). Cataract can also be associated with other diseases, such as diabetes mellitus, and hypocalcaemia, and also due to some toxins, including internally produced toxins (e.g. those produced due to retinal degeneration) as well as external toxins. Cataract associated with diabetes mellitus often progresses very rapidly. Cataract should not be confused with the normal aging change of the lens of the eye called sclerosis – this is often visible as a white cloudiness in older dogs’ eyes. Often this can be confused with cataract by dog owners, but sclerosis of the lens does NOT cause loss of vision.
Ivermectin Sensitivity MDR1 (Multi Drug Resistance)
In certain breeds a mutation on the MDR1 gene (which stands for Multi Drug Resistance 1) makes affected animals sensitive to certain drugs. The first drug that this defect was found to be present for was Ivermectin, used to treat mange and prevent heartworm. Affected dogs suffer seizures when given this drug. It has since been found that the mutation on the MDR1 gene means that the brain is not able to efficiently pump some drugs out of its protected environment the way normal brain vessels do – hence these drugs can enter and build up in the brain tissue, and cause toxic effects such as seizures. A range of drugs are usually pumped out of the brain by the protein pump that the MDR1 gene is responsible for, and so dogs carrying the defective (“mutant”) gene are sensitive to a whole range of drugs. Dogs carrying two copies of the mutant gene are more sensitive to these drugs than those with one copy of the gene. For more details on the drugs involved in this disease, information can be found at http://vcpl.vetmed.wsu.edu/problem-drugs Your vet should be aware if your dog is carrying an affected MDR1 gene, or 2 copies of the gene, as the amount of these drugs given needs to be reduced to avoid toxic effects, or alternative drugs used if available. This genetic defect is known to occur quite commonly in a number of breeds, especially Collies, and a DNA test is available to determine if your dog is carrying abnormal MDR1 gene/s or not.
L-2 Hydroxyglutaric Aciduria
L-2 Hydroxyglutaric Aciduria is an inherited neurometabolic disorder. Affected dogs have increased levels of L-2-hydroxyglutaric acid in urine, blood and cerebrospinal fluid and progressive damage to the brain. L-2-HGA is an autosomal recessive metabolic disease that causes an increase in levels of the substance L-2-hydroxyglutaric acid in the blood, urine and CSF (the fluid around the brain and spinal cord). This substance is toxic to cells of the central nervous system, and causes muscle stiffness, tremors and seizures, a wobbly gait and altered behaviour. Signs usually appear at around 6 – 12 months of age, although it can occur later. A DNA test is available for Staffordshire Bull Terriers, but in other breeds diagnosis is through blood or urine tests to show elevated levels of L-2-HGA. There is no treatment available for this disease.
Myotonia Congenita
This is an uncommon condition that causes gait abnormalities (e.g. bunny hopping) in puppies. Muscles become enlarged (hypertrophied), and this is especially noticeable in the shoulder and thigh areas. The tongue is enlarged and may protrude from the mouth. There may be a stiff gait, especially in the hindlimbs, and affected animals may have difficulty getting to their feet and balancing. Signs are usually evident at a young age. This condition occurs in several breeds, most commonly in the chow chow and miniature Schnauzer. In the miniature Schnauzer the condition is autosomal recessive and the mutation has been characterised, with a DNA test available. In people recessive and dominant forms are seen. The condition occurs due to a mutation in a gene that controls the muscle membrane ion channels (i.e. the gates that control flow of sodium and chloride across the muscle cell wall). This abnormality delays the relaxation of the muscle fibre so that in effect the muscles are overly tensed, leading to the increase in their size and decreased muscle control that is seen. Diagnosis is made by electromyography (studies of the passage of electrical impulses through the muscle tissue) and muscle biopsy. The condition can be treated (not always successfully) with membrane stabilising drugs (that act to block the sodium or chloride channels) but cannot be cured.
Narcolepsy
Dogs with the inherited form of narcolepsy typically present between one to six months of age with an inability to stay awake for extended periods of time and episodes of collapse and sleep following positive stimulation such as play or food. Affected dogs fall asleep faster than normal dogs and appear sleepy more frequently. During episodes of collapse dogs have a sudden loss of muscle tone and appear uncontrollably sleepy but may or may not completely fall asleep. Symptoms do not progress after one year of age and affected dogs do not have other associated health problems.
Neonatal Encephalopathyis
Neonatal Encephalopathyis an inherited neurologic disease. Affected puppies are smaller than littermates at birth, have difficulty nursing after a few days of life, and often die by 1 week of age. By 3 weeks of age, surviving puppies present with neurologic symptoms including muscle weakness, tremors, inability to walk, wide-based stance and frequent falling. The disease quickly progresses to severe seizures that become non-responsive to treatment. Affected dogs typically die or are euthanized by 7 weeks of age.
Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis
Nervous system / Neurologic – Associated with the brain, spinal cord and nerves
Moderate. This disease can cause significant signs of discomfort and/or dysfunction in affected animals. It may involve relatively high treatment/management costs, and can sometimes reduce life expectancy.
Phosphofructokinase (PFK)
Phosphofructokinase (PFK) is an important enzyme that is found in cells of the body and is involved in the use and regulation of glucose as an energy source. A deficiency of the PFK enzyme in cells interferes with the metabolism of glucose, and the main signs seen in affected dogs relates to the muscles and the blood cells. PFK deficiency is an autosomal recessively inherited defect, and is often present by 2 – 3 months of age. However diagnosis is often delayed, as owners may not notice the more subtle changes, and sometimes affected dogs may go for several years before being diagnosed. PFK deficiency leads to muscles that fatigue very easily, because they cannot use energy very efficiently. This manifests as muscle weakness, an inability to exercise properly, or muscle cramping. Also the muscle breakdown product myoglobin can be excreted in the urine, causing a brown discolouration of the urine. This myoglobin can also cause kidney damage or acute renal failure in large amounts. PFK activity in red blood cells is also reduced, leading to an abnormally short lifespan of these cells. This causes a (usually mild) haemolytic anaemia, and often a reticulocytosis can be detected on routine blood screening. Occasionally dogs may present with an acute severe haemolytic crisis, where a large number of red blood cells have been broken down at the same time, causing severe anaemia with shortness of breath, lethargy, weakness, fever and pale gums. Sometimes jaundice may be seen as well (yellowing of the sclera of the eyes and gums). There is no cure for PFK deficiency, and treatment is supportive only. Affected animals should avoid exercising, which can lead to muscle damage and pain, and the kidneys should be protected from muscle breakdown products (with iv fluids) to protect them from damage if necessary (e.g. after an episode of running/exercise). Occasionally blood transfusions may be required for severe anaemia. General therapy with L-carnitine, riboflavin and coenzyme Q10 has been reported to have some beneficial effects. Dogs may have a relatively normal lifespan if they avoid situations of stress and/or exercise. After 3 months of age the activity of PFK can be tested in the red blood cells, and there is also a DNA test available for several breeds (the English springer spaniel, the American and English cocker spaniel, the Wachtelhund and the whippet), which allows for accurate screening of breeding stock. This disease has also been reported in mixed breed dogs.
Primary lens luxation (PLL)
Primary lens luxation (PLL) is thought to be heritable in most breeds in which it is seen, although clinical signs are generally not seen until the dog is an adult. Secondary lens luxation is not heritable, and occurs secondary to another disease process within the eye. In the terrier breeds (such as the Jack Russell terrier) PLL is associated with an inherited degeneration of the zonules, or the thin ligaments that suspend the lens in place behind the iris (the coloured part of the eye) and in front of the vitreous (a clear, gel-like substance). The genetic mutation has been characterised in a number of breeds, and a genetic test is available. Lens luxation refers to the lens being in an abnormal position inside the eye. Clinical signs in the fox terrier are usually not seen until the dog is in middle age, and include a sudden onset of pain (squinting, tearing etc), redness, and cloudiness of the cornea. The lens may partially or fully luxate into the front chamber of the eye, causing acute glaucoma (increased pressure within the eye). Sometimes the lens may fall backwards into the posterior (back) chamber of the eye, which may displace the vitreous forwards. This may then also lead to a blockage of drainage of fluid from the eye and a secondary glaucoma. Glaucoma (increased fluid pressure within the eye) is a common consequence of lens luxation, and can rapidly lead to blindness. Lens luxation is a veterinary emergency, and if you notice the signs of PLL in your dog’s eye you should see your vet immediately. Diagnosis is by examination of the inside of the eye by a veterinarian, and possibly an ultrasound of the eye. Treatment of PLL is aimed at reducing the fluid pressure within the eye and preserving vision in acute cases, then removing the lens surgically. Blind eyes may be removed to treat pain. Genetic testing is available for the screening of breeding animals, so that two carriers (or any affected animals) are not bred. Although the disease is treated as a recessive one, carrier animals will also occasionally develop lens luxation.
PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Associated with the eyes and associated structures
Low-Moderate. This disease can cause some discomfort and/or dysfunction in the affected animal. It does not generally affect life expectancy.
Pyruvate Dehydrogenase Phosphatase Deficiency
Pyruvate Dehydrogenase Phosphatase Deficiency is an inherited metabolic disorder. Affected dogs may present as early as 15 weeks of age with an inability to play as long as littermates. Pyruvate is an important metabolic component needed for energy production in muscle. By 1 year of age, affected dogs have clinical signs of exercise intolerance including unwillingness or inability to exercise or play for more than five minutes. Affected dogs may walk slowly, sit to rest often or collapse during exercise or play. After a few minutes of rest dogs may be able to walk and play again but will tire quickly if they continue the activity. Without dietary supplementation affected dogs will die within a few years of age. High numbers of neonatal deaths have been reported in littermates of affected dogs suggesting that many affected dogs die shortly after birth.
Pyruvate kinase (PK)
Pyruvate kinase (PK) is an enzyme critical to the anaerobic glycolytic pathway of energy production in the erythrocyte. If red blood cells are deficient in PK they are unable to sustain normal cell metabolism and hence are destroyed prematurely. This deficiency manifests as an hemolytic anemia of variable severity with a strong regenerative response. Also associated with the disease in dogs but not cats is a progressive myelofibrosis and osteosclerosis of unknown etiology and this feature, along with liver failure, is the major cause of death in affected dogs.
Von Willebrand’s disease Type 1
Von Willebrand’s disease is the most common inherited bleeding disorder in dogs and occurs when there is a lack of functional von Willebrand factor. Von Willebrand factor is needed for the normal adhesion of platelets, and therefore clotting of blood. There are 3 types of von Willebrand’s disease, and type 1 von Willebrand’s disease is the most common. This type is where there is an overall lack of structurally normal von Willebrand factor. It has been reported in over 60 breeds, as well as mixed breed dogs. Not all pups are affected equally when they have von Willebrand’s disease, as the decrease in amount of von Willebrand factor can vary quite a lot. The genetic abnormality has also been described as autosomal dominant with incomplete penetrance, which leads to the high variability in expression. Different mutations have been reported. Some breeds are affected from birth, while others may not be affected until adulthood, or even middle age. DNA tests are available for some breeds, but some dogs that test “positive” may have severe disease, while others may never develop any bleeding tendency. Other dogs are diagnosed by a von Willebrand factor assay, which expresses the level of von Willebrand factor as a percentage. Levels of von Willebrand factor are less than 50% in affected animals, but animals have an increased risk of haemorrhage (i.e. abnormal bleeding tendency) when levels are less than 25-35%. Severe bleeding tendencies are usually associated with levels less than 10-20% (depending on breed). Von Willebrand factor assays are quite variable within an individual, and can be affected by a number of factors, hence repeat testing can be necessary. Signs of von Willebrand’s disease are generally those of abnormal bleeding or prolonged periods of bleeding. If undiagnosed, affected dogs can suffer life-threatening haemorrhage at times of routine surgery or after a traumatic event. Treatment can often be required with blood or plasma transfusions. It is generally recommended to test for this disease (or at least test bleeding times) prior to routine surgery in breeds with a high incidence of the disease (e.g. the Dobermann) and have appropriate transfusion products available in case of a bleeding episode.
Von Willebrand’s disease Type II
Von Willebrand’s disease is the most common inherited bleeding disorder in dogs and occurs when there is a lack of functional von Willebrand factor. Von Willebrand factor is needed for the normal adhesion of platelets and for normal blood clotting to occur. There are 3 types of von Willebrand’s disease, and type II disease occurs when there is structurally abnormal von Willebrand factor in the blood of affected animals. This is a recessive disorder and is a fairly rare and severe form of von Willebrand’s disease. Because the von Willebrand factor is structurally abnormal, it will not function as it is supposed to in the process of blood clotting. This type of von Willebrand’s disease leads to severe bleeding disorders and episodes of bleeding. Diagnosis may be suspected in a dog that has a bleeding problem but a normal PT and APTT, and can be confirmed by DNA testing for the mutation that causes the disease. Treatment may involve supportive care as an inpatient in hospital, as well as blood and/or plasma transfusions to provide functioning clotting factors. Care must be taken that affected dogs do not play roughly, suffer trauma from falls or jumping from heights, and that veterinarians are always aware of their condition. However severe episodes of bleeding that can be life-threatening may occur regardless.
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Is a Cavoodle Right for Your Family?
For any Australian family seeking a healthy, well-bred family dog to provide joy and fun to their household, it is always a wise idea to determine which breed will be most suitable for them beforehand. If you are one of these families searching for a new, furry addition to your home, chances are you have heard about Cavoodles.
In this post, we will provide you with everything you’ll need to know regarding the Cavoodle breed, so you can best determine if these furry friends are right for you and your family.
Cavoodles have long been one of the (if not the most) popular dog breed in Australia. This is no accident. Most people hear about this family breed from other Cavoodle owners that are very happy with their Cavoodle.
Do Cavoodles Shed?
You have likely heard the horror stories about dogs who can’t seem to stop shedding. If you’ve owned dogs in the past, you might have suffered anything from clothing covered with loose fur to carpets riddled with dog hair. No matter how much you love your dog, such an environment can cause headaches when it comes to actually cleaning these dog-fur blizzards.
Luckily, this is something you won’t experience with Cavoodles. This dog breed tends to be incredibly low on the shedding spectrum, which makes them an excellent choice for anyone who can’t stand the sight of dog hair on their new pair of jeans. Minimal shedding also means less money spent on grooming tools and services, as well as overall peace of mind!
ABOUT CAVOODLES
The Cavoodle is a cross between a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a Poodle (toy or miniature). They are a very popular breed of dog, beloved for their small size, big eyes and joyful nature. Cavoodles are one of the most popular breeds in Australia.
Height: 25 – 38 cm
Weight: 5 – 14 kg (Adult)
Temperament: Playful, Affectionate, Friendly, Sociable, Good-natured, Loyal
They are Healthy
The health of our pets tends to be just as important as the health of our fellow humans. When it comes to helping our dogs lead a healthy, happy life, we often worry about what’s going on inside. Health issues can lead to stress for owners, as well as skyrocketing bills for treatment.
When it comes to Cavapoo, this dog breed tends to stay on the healthier side of the species. These adorable pups are widely regarded as some of the healthiest dogs in the world, which makes them a prime candidate for any family seeking a new pup from breeders.
They are Very Friendly
There is no question about it: we love how friendly dogs can be. It is usually the reason you opt for a puppy instead of a cat. Cavadoodles are no exception to this rule, as this cheerful dog breed is incredibly friendly to nearly everyone they come across. Whether you take your pup to the park or the beach, they are bound to make a few friends along the way.
They are Amazing with Kids and Other Pets
If you are part of a family searching for a new dog, one of the most important questions you will be asking dog breeders regards how well the dog you are interested in interacts with kids. We all know that children can be playful at times, especially with a pet, and it is wise to make sure you find a breed that can handle this kind of attention.
Luckily, Cavoodles are excellent at interacting with kids – their friendliness truly knows no bounds. Additionally, these cute puppies play incredibly well with other animals, so if you have any other pets at home, you have nothing to fear.
They are Low Maintenance
We all love how energetic dogs can be, especially when it comes to outdoor adventures. However, there are times when owners need a break, whether it is for enjoying quiet family time to the kids focusing on homework; a high maintenance dog can throw a wrench in this environment.
Cavoodle owners have nothing to fear. These dogs are low maintenance, which makes them great for owners who appreciate saving their time and energy for other matters. Of course, they will still be ready to play once you have free time. Until then, you can relax without worry.
Cavoodle FAQ
- How big do Cavoodles get? Cavoodles can vary in size, depending on whether they are bred from a toy or miniature Poodle and the size of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel parent. In general, Cavoodles can range in size from small to medium, with a weight of around 5-14kg.
- How much exercise do Cavoodles need? Cavoodles are energetic and playful, and they need daily exercise to stay happy and healthy. A daily walk and some playtime should be sufficient to meet their exercise needs.
- Are Cavoodles good with children? Cavoodles are generally good with children and are known for their friendly and affectionate nature. They can make great family pets as long as they are socialized and trained properly.
- Do Cavoodles shed? Poodles are considered hypoallergenic, and Cavoodles that are bred from Poodles may shed less than other breeds. However, Cavoodles can still shed some hair, and it is important to groom them regularly to keep their coat healthy and clean.
- How long do Cavoodles live? Cavoodles can live for around 10-15 years, depending on their health and lifestyle. It is important to provide your Cavoodle with proper care, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and regular visits to the veterinarian.
- Are Cavoodles easy to train? Cavoodles are generally intelligent and eager to please, which makes them relatively easy to train. However, like all dogs, they will require patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement to learn new commands and behaviors.
- Do Cavoodles require a lot of grooming? Cavoodles have a soft, curly coat that requires regular grooming to keep it healthy and looking its best. This may include regular brushing, bathing, and trimming, as well as regular ear and dental care.
- Are Cavoodles prone to any health issues? Cavoodles, like all breeds, can be prone to certain health issues. These may include heart problems and eye issues. It is important to choose a reputable breeder and to have your Cavoodle checked by a veterinarian regularly to help ensure their health.
- Can Cavoodles be left alone for long periods of time? Cavoodles are social animals and do best when they have the company of their human family. Of course, most people need to go to work most days and Cavoodles will adapt to the usual routine of the home.
- Do Cavoodles get along with other pets? Cavoodles can get along well with other pets, especially if they are socialized and trained properly. However, as with any new pet introduction, it is important to monitor their interactions and provide adequate supervision to ensure their safety.