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Cavapoos are known for their adorable teddy bear-like appearance, intelligence, and temperament.
There are several generations of Cavapoos, F1, F1B, F1BB, F2, F2B, etc. This makes it confusing to know which one is right for you and what each means. So what’s an F1 Cavapoo? How does it compare to other Cavapoo generations?
In this blog post, we will cover the F1 Cavapoo generation in detail and compare it to some of the other generations. We will also discuss the F1 Cavapoo’s physical appearance, size, colors, temperament, and answer other frequently asked questions.
Let’s dive in.
Table of Contents
The Cavapoo Generations
The Cavapoo is a cross between the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and the Poodle. Cavapoos can be bred in several different ways, which is how you get different generations.
There can be a lot of confusion surrounding the different generations of Cavapoos. So to better understand the generations let’s break it down.
The first step is understanding what an F-generation even is.
What Is An “F” Generations Cavapoo?
You’ve probably seen a few of the generation names, such as F1 Cavapoo or F1b Cavapo, but what does the “F” mean?
The ‘F’ in the Cavapoo generations stands for a filial hybrid. The word Filial means “generation after the parental generation.” So an F generation Cavapoo is just a generation of offspring from the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a Poodle.
The F can also be interpreted as the “foundation” generation. That’s because all other generations of Cavapoos are based on this original cross. Any number following the F, such as 1 or 2, refers to the generation number. So F1 would mean generation one and F2 generation two.
In addition, there is also the letter ‘B’ that shows up in generation names. The ‘B’ refers to a backcross. So, for example, an F1B Cavapoo is the first-generation backcross. In addition, an F1BB would be considered a first-generation backcross of backcross.
So now that you have a better understanding let’s break down how the generations affect the Cavapoo’s genetics and how each generation is different from the next.
Genetics Of Cavapoo Generations
F1 Cavapoo: 50% Poodle & 50% Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
F1B Cavapoo: 75% Poodle & 25% Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
F1BB Cavapoo: 87.5% Poodle & 12.5% Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
F2 Cavapoo: 50% Poodle & 50% Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
F2B Cavapoo: 62.5% Poodle & 37.5% Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
F2BB Cavapoo: 81.25% Poodle & 18.75% Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
What is An F1 Cavapoo?
An f1 generation Cavapoo also referred to as the first cross-generation, is a cross between a purebred Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a purebred Poodle.
This means they inherit 50% Poodle genes and 50% Cavalier genes.
However, when genes are split 50/50, they can express various traits from either parent. It’s the same reason siblings can look so different even though they have the same mom and dad.
This is why the appearance of an F1 Cavapoos is impossible to predict. They could express more genes from the Poodle or the Cavalier.
However, an F1 Cavapoo is generally going to be somewhere in the middle of its parent breeds regarding size, coat type, and temperament.
More detail on this is below.
What Is An F1B Cavapoo?
An F1B Cavapoo is the first-generation backcross.
In other words, it is bred from an F1-generation Cavapoo and a purebred Poodle or Cavalier. Since a Poodle is usually the chosen breeding partner, most F1B Cavapoos are 75% Poodle and 25% Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.
However, if a Cavalier is chosen, then the F1B would be 75% Cavalier and 25% Poodle.
The reason breeders usually opt for the Poodle is that the added 25% poodle genes help to reduce some negative traits of the f1 generation, which commonly stems from the Cavalier parent.
Backcross generations are bred to reduce negative traits that may be present in the F1 Cavapoo. That’s also why most people favor F1B generations.
F1B generations are also much easier to predict when it comes to their physical appearance and temperament.
F1BB Cavapoos
The F1BB Cavapoos are a double backcross. In other words, an f1B Cavapoo is bred with a Poodle or Cavalier.
This leaves the breed with 87.5% Poodle genes and 12.5% Cavalier genes or the other way around (though Poodles are almost always used).
And just like the purpose of the F1B generation, the F1BB-Cavapoos also exist to further reduce the “negative traits” of F1b-generation Cavapoos.
However, most of the time, F1BB generations look identical to a Poodle. This can take away from the Cavapoo’s unique appearance.
What Is An F2 Cavapoo?
An F2 generation Cavapoo is also referred to as the second generation cross. It’s a cross between two F1-generation Cavapoos.
This means an F2 Cavapoo is bred with two Cavapoos that are both 50% purebred Cavalier and 50% purebred Poodle.
This results in a Cavapoo with the same genetic makeup as an F1-Cavapoo.
However, the F2-Cavapoos are even more unpredictable than the F1 Cavapoos. You are basically rolling the dice when getting an F2-Cavapoo.
What Is An F2B Cavapoo?
An F2B Cavapoo is a second-generation backcross. However, this is where things change a bit. It’s not as simple as just backcrossing an F2 Cavapoo.
With an F2B Cavapoo, it’s bred from an F1 Cavapoo with an F1B Cavapoo. Creating a second-generation backcross.
In other words, an F2B Cavapoo is 37.5% Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and 62.5% Poodle. This breed will keep many of the Poodle genes, but the puppies will have more Cavapoo traits.
F2BB Cavapoos
The F2BB Cavapoos are another backcross made with a backcross. Meaning they are bred from an F2B Cavapoo and a purebred Poodle.
The F2BB generation Cavapoo is very similar to the F1BB generation but with slightly less Poodle. Unfortunately, these generations are hard to come by as most breeders stop at F1B.
This is also technically a fourth-generation Cavapoo which takes a lot of time and effort to reach.
What is An F3 Cavapoo?
The last Cavapoo generation I will mention is the F3.
An F3-generation Cavapoo is the first of many multi-generation Cavapoos. Multi-gene Cavapoo can be called F4 Cavapoos, F2bb Cavapoos, and many others.
The F3 Cavapoo is 50% Poodle and 50% Cavapoo. At this generation level, the appearance of the offspring should be easier to predict.
F1 Cavapoo Dog Appearance & Build
Since the F1 Cavapoo is 50% Poodle and 50% Cavalier, its appearance will be unpredictable. An F1 Cavapoo could look more like the Poodle or Cavalier. It’s very random what you might get.
An F1-generation Cavapoo can have a curly coat like the Poodle, wavy like the Cavalier, or anywhere in between. They have a 50-50 chance to take after one over the other. However, they could also be a perfect mix of the two.
The coat of an F1-generation Cavapoo is usually medium to long and can be hypoallergenic or non-hypoallergenic.
The most desirable Cavapoo will have a round face with floppy ears and a non-shedding coat. Its muzzle should be slightly longer than the skull and taper to a point.
F1 Cavapoo Size (Weight & Height)
The F1 Cavapoo can come in different sizes depending on the Poodle used for breeding.
Poodles can be standard, miniature, toy, and teacup sizes. So this can play a role in the size of the F1 Cavapoo. For example, suppose a tiny teacup poodle breeds with a Cavalier. In that case, the offspring is likely to be much smaller than if a standard poodle was used.
Even so, when it comes to predicting an F1 Cavapoos size, it’s practically impossible. It’s not until reaching the backcross generations (like the f1B) that size can be more accurately predicted.
Here are some of the common sizes for f1 Cavapoos:
Standard F1 Cavapoo
The standard F1 Cavapoo comes from breeding a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel with a Standard Poodle.
A standard F1 Cavapoo can range from 15+ inches (45.7cm) and can weigh 25 to 40 pounds (11.3-18.2kg).
Miniature F1 Cavapoo
The miniature F1 Cavapoo comes from breeding a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel with a Miniature Poodle.
A miniature F1 Cavapoo can range from 12 to 15 inches (30-38cm) and can weigh 20 to 30 pounds (9.1-13.6kg).
Toy F1 Cavapoo
The toy F1 Cavapoo comes from breeding a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel with Toy Poodles.
A toy F1 Cavapoo can range from 10 to 12 inches (25.4-30.5cm) and can weigh 13 to 25 pounds (5.8-11.3kg).
Teacup F1 Cavapoo
The teacup F1 Cavapoo comes from breeding a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel with teacup Poodles.
A teacup F1 Cavapoo can range from 8 to 10 inches(20.3-25.4cm) and can weigh 18 to 15 pounds (3.6-6.8kg).
F1 Cavapoo Coat Colors & Texture
The F1-generation Cavapoo can have a wide variety of coat colors and textures.
The most common types are wavy, straight, or curly. And the most common textures are wool, fleece, and hair-like. Their coats are the generally medium or short length and soft to the touch.
Here are some of the most popular F1-generation Cavapoo coat colors:
- Black
- White
- Tan
- Ruby
- Apricot,
- Blue
- Brown
- Grey
- Silver
There are also a few other shades not mentioned. So the coat colors Cavapoo pups can have is practically endless.
F1 Cavapoo Shedding & Grooming
When it comes to shedding, the f1 Cavapoo can go either way. It really depends on which parent they take after more, the Poodle or the Cavalier.
Poodles are known for being non-shedding, while Cavalier King Charles Spaniel are heavy shedders. So an F1-generation Cavapoo could be anywhere in between.
When it comes to grooming, some f1-generation Cavapoo may need more maintenance than others. Poodles need to be professionally groomed every few months. On the flip side, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels need daily brushing.
So depending on which coat is inherited by the F1 Cavapoo, the amount of brushing, hair cuts, and baths will differ.
As for teeth cleaning, ear cleaning, and nail trimming, all f1 Cavapoos will have similar needs. Cleaning and trimming should be done when needed, which for most Cavapoos will be every few weeks.
Do F1 Cavapoos Shed?
There is no such thing as a non-shedding dog. Even hypoallergenic dogs shed to some extent.
Now, how much an F1 Cavapoo sheds depends on the coat they inherit.
If the F1-generation Cavapoo has a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel coat, then they will be moderate to heavy shedders.
However, if the F1 Cavapoo has a Poodle coat, then they will shed very little. Most people would consider them non-shedding dogs. In addition, they could also fall in the middle between these two coat types and shed a moderate amount.
Are F1 Cavapoos Hypoallergenic?
For an F1 Cavapoo to be hypoallergenic, it must take more after the Poodle parent.
Most people think it’s hair that causes allergies, but it’s really the dander and saliva that a dog produces that can cause allergies. So, if an F1-generation Cavapoo has a Poodle coat, then they will have less dander and produce lower levels of allergens.
In contrast, if an F1 more after the Cavalier, they will cause allergic reactions since they are not hypoallergenic like the Poodle.
F1 Cavapoo Lifespan
The f1 Cavapoos lifespan is typically around 9 – 14 years.
This is the average lifespan for most dog breeds, and it doesn’t really matter what generation of Cavapoo they are or which parent they take after more.
However, if they are made with miniature or toy Poodles, these dogs will often live slightly longer.
F1 Cavapoo Common Health Issues
F1 Cavapoo is bred with two rather healthy purebred dogs. However, F1-generation Cavapoos are still susceptible to some health problems.
Here is a list of the F1 Cavapoos’ most common health concerns:
- Luxating patellas
- Hip dysplasia
- Mitral valve disease
- Epilepsy
- Progressive retinal atrophy,
- Entropion
- Cataracts
- Glaucoma
F1 Cavapoo Trainability & Intelligence
The F1 Cavapoos are very intelligent. They are quick to learn, and they enjoy pleasing their owners. As a result, they make excellent family pets since they get along with kids and other animals.
They are also a great choice for first-time dog owners.
If they have more poodle parents in them, F1-generation Cavapoos will be easier to train as poodles are one of the most intelligent dog breeds.
However, the Cavalier parent can make them a little more stubborn and difficult to train.
But, with patience and consistency, most f1 Cavapoos will be able to learn most things you want to teach them.
F1 Cavapoo Activity Level & Exercise Needs
The F1-generation Cavapoo can be a moderate to the high-energy dog breed that loves to play and run around. If they take more after the Poodle parent, they will be more active than if they take after the Cavalier.
A daily walk may not be enough for this breed if they contain more Poodle. They will need some type of activity or exercise to burn off all their energy.
As a good rule of thumb with F1 Cavapoos, they need at least one hour of exercise every day. This can be in the form of a run, hike, or playtime at the dog park.
Make sure to offer them plenty of interesting toys and puzzles to keep their minds occupied.
F1 Cavapoo Temperament & Behavior
Thes F1 Cavapoo is a hyper-intelligent and affectionate dog that enjoys following commands and completing tasks for their owners.
F1 Cavapoos are smart, kind, and friendly with people, making them suitable for everyone, from first-time dog owners to those with a home full of kids. They are easy-going and pretty low-maintenance dogs aside from their coat.
They are prone to separation anxiety if left alone for lengthy periods of time.
This might show up in a variety of ways, including barking, howling, pacing, urinating in the home, and destroying furniture.
Do F1 Cavapoos Bark A Lot?
The F1 Cavapoo is considered a moderate barker, but they tend to bark for a purpose, not just because they feel like it.
They may bark to get something they want, such as to go outside, to play, or to get a toy. They may also bark to warn you of something, such as an intruder or another animal.
However, they are hyper-intelligent, so they can be trained to stop barking if you dislike it.
Do F1 Cavapoos Like To Cuddle?
The F1-generation Cavapoo is a loving and affectionate dog that loves to cuddle with their humans. If you are looking for a dog that will be your best friend and provide you with endless amounts of love, the F1-generation Cavapoo is a great choice.
Are F1 Cavapoos Good With Kids?
F1-generation Cavapoos are great with kids! They are gentle, loving, and patient, making them the perfect playmate for your children. They will require proper socialization and training, but Cavapoos learn quickly how to interact appropriately with kids of all ages.
Are F1 Cavapoos Good With Other Dogs?
F1-generation Cavapoos are generally friendly and social with other dogs. As with all dogs, they will still socialize to learn the proper ways to play and interact with others. In addition, they do love attention, so they may try to monopolize you if you have other dogs around.
Are F1 Cavapoos Good With Strangers?
F1-generation Cavapoos are friendly with everyone, even strangers. They will greet guests with a wagging tail and excitement. Cavapoos are social, friendly dog that thrives on companionship.
Are F1 Cavapoos Good Apartment Dogs?
The F1-generation Cavapoo can do well living in an apartment. Both the Poodle and Cavalier parent breeds do well in apartments.
Just make sure to meet their exercise and stimulation needs so you can burn off their energy and eliminate the development of destructive habits.
F1 Cavapoo Food & Diet
The F1 Cavapoo is a high-energy dog that needs a diet to match.
The food requirements of an F1 Cavapoo will vary depending on their age, size, level of activity, and health. However, a dog needs 10-18% of their dog food should be protein, and 5.5-8% should be fat. Then roughly 50% from carbs, including 2.5-4.5% fiber. Each food brand you purchase will have specific feeding recommendations based on your dog’s age and size that you may follow.
The diet of a dog should be based on high-quality dry food. You may add wet or raw food or prepare your own meals, but this is the expensive route. High-quality dry food is all a dog needs to live a happy and healthy life.
Here are some of the best food brands recommended by our veterinary consultant, Dr. Littlejohn:
Commercial Dry & Wet Food
Raw Food
Further Reading: 7 Simple Steps To Feeding Your Puppy (#4 Is Crucial)
What Is The Price Of An F1 Cavapoo?
The Average F1 Cavapoo price is roughly $1,500 to $4,000. Prices vary depending on the breeder, coat type, generation, size, color, and eye color.
For example, if you want an F1 miniature or toy Cavapoo, the cost for one is more like $2000 to $5000.
Where Can You Buy A F1 Cavapoo?
If you are looking to buy an F1 Cavapoo puppy, we recommend only buying from a reputable breeder.
Remember, not all breeders are created equal– do your research to ensure you’re getting a healthy puppy from a reputable source.
Since every location is a little different, here are some places you can start looking are:
- https://puppyfinder.com/
- https://puppies.com/
- https://marketplace.akc.org/puppies
F1 Vs. F2 Cavapoo Which Is Better?
When comparing the F1 and F2 Cavapoos, it is important to consider what you want in your dog.
Mostly, it comes down to what you prefer and which dog is more fitting for your lifestyle. In general, the F2 Cavapoos have less predictability to their litter than the F1.
So, generally speaking, it’s better to pick the F1 Cavapoo over the F2 if you want to have a better idea of what size, coat type, and personality your dog will have.
However, as a full disclosure, with the F1 and F2 generations, there is a randomness to both litters. The F1 just has the advanatage.
In fact, most breeders are aware of the inherent randomness in F2 generation Cavapoos and don’t even bother breeding them.
F1 Vs. F1B Cavapoo Which Is Better?
When comparing the F1 and F1b generation Cavapoos, most consider the F1b generation to be better. This is because the F1B generation is a cross between the F1 Cavapoo and a purebred Poodle.
Therefore, the F1B Cavapoo has a higher percentage of Poodle in them, around 75% Poodle and 25% Cavalier.
Because of this, they’re more predictable in terms of their physical appearance and disposition. It also implies you’ve got a low-shedding, hypoallergenic dog on your hands. The biggest disadvantage to the F1 Cavapoo pup is that it comes with a lot of variation and unpredictability.
The F1 and F1b generations are both going to produce fantastic dogs, but if you are someone who suffers from allergies, the F1b Cavapoo is going to be best.
If you don’t have allergies, don’t mind shedding, or the extra long hair a Cavalier brings to the table, then the F1 Cavapoo will be the better choice for you.
Final Thoughts
All in all, the F1 Cavapoo is an amazing dog that is perfect for families or individuals who are looking for a loving, smart, easy-to-train dog.
Though the F1 generation might be unpredictable, they make up for it in personality and adorableness.
The F1 Cavapoo is going to be a great family companion that will make you laugh often and provide loads of love. If you are looking for a hypoallergenic dog, the F1 might not be the best choice as they can inherit more of the Cavalier’s genetics than the poodles.
Opt for the F1B Cavapoo if you are looking for a guaranteed hypoallergenic dog.
Thanks for reading, and we hope this helped answer some questions you might have had about the first generation Cavapoo!
Other posts you might find interesting:
F1 Labradoodle: Full Generation Guide + F2 & F1B Comparisons