A cross between a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a Poodle, the Cavapoo, also known as a Cavoodle, is a loveable dog breed. It makes a wonderful companion for any household.
If you own one of these amazing dogs you will want to give them the best in life, and this includes picking the right food. Cavoodles are known to be picky eaters with sensitive stomachs, so you have to be very savvy to make the right choice.
So what is the best dog food for the Cavapoo? The answer to this question may not be as easy as you may imagine, and that is why I am here to help you!
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Contents
Top Picks Cavapoo’s Dog Foods: Comparison Chart
I understand that you want the best for your pooch, and that is why I have taken the time to analyze a sample of dog food which I believe with my nutrition and veterinary background are the best around.
Here they are!
| Best Vet Recommended: | Hill’s Science Diet Adult Small Paws |  |
| Best For Skin and Coat | Blue Buffalo Basics Skin & Stomach Care Salmon & Potato Recipe Adult |  |
| Best For Sensitive Stomachs | Hill’s Science Diet Adult, Small Bites, Perfect Digestion Chicken |  |
| Most Affordable | Nutro Natural Choice Small Breed Adult |  |
| Best For Fussy Cavapoo’s | Royal Canin Small Breed Adult |  |
| Best Fresh Food | ||
| Best For Cavapoo Puppies | Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Small Paws |  |
| Best Diet for Senior Cavapoos | Purina Pro Plan Adult 7+ Bright Mind Small Breed |  |
What Are The Best Dog Food For Cavapoo – Reviews
1. Best Vet Recommended: Hill’s Science Diet Adult Small & Toy Breed Dry Dog Food
Science diet Adult Small and Toy breed is the highest rated veterinary recommended small breed diet I can find. With a rating of 4.8/5 there are very few negative reviews out there! This nourishing recipe supports bone health, muscle strength as well as skin and coat health with added omega-3 fatty acids! Science dog food has been manufactured in America since 1965 which means it meets strict requirements of purity to exceed industry standards.
Best for Cavapoo’s that have no health issues under 22 pounds
Pros
- No artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives added
- Easy to digest with highly digestible protein sources
- Reviewers report excellent palatability for fussy eaters
- Added Vitamin E and Omega-6 fatty acids to improve skin and coat
- AACO statement: Formulated to meet Adult life stage: better than all life stages diets (see below under assessing a dog food)
- Veterinary recommended
Cons
- Freshness reduces towards the bottom of the bag so make sure you only purchase a bag size that will last 4-6 weeks and no longer
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2. Runner up- Purina Pro Plan High Protein Small Breed Dry Dog Food Shredded Blend
Runner up best for the Cavapoo is Purina Pro Plan’s high protein diet for small breeds.
To begin with the features, we must praise its high protein formulation with a crude protein of 33% protein with lamb as the first ingredient. It’s made of kibble and crunchy shredded lamb pieces which dogs report to love the taste of.
Moreover, it’s carefully prepared with the help of animal nutritionists and veterinarians to have the exact taste and texture suitable for small breeds of dogs.
Apart from Cavapoo’s, it is suitable for all small breed dogs with the complete essential formula. But it might cause digestive issues for dogs with sensitive stomachs. Beware of that!
Best for Healthy Adult Cavapoo’s under 22 pounds
Pros
- High protein 33% to help support lean muscle for active little dogs
- Promotes healthy and shiny skin and coat with added Vitamin E
- 100% natural nutrition with no added flavors or preservatives
- Manufactured at Purina owned Facilities in the USA
- Veterinarians and nutritionists on staff
Cons
- Contains poultry-byproduct meal and beef tallow which are cheaper ingredients
- Some dogs pick out the small “shredded” bits and leave the kibble!
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3. Best For Skin and Coat: Blue Buffalo Basics Skin & Stomach Care Salmon & Potato Recipe Adult
As the name informs, Blue Buffalo Basics Skin & Stomach Care Salmon & Potato Recipe Adult has no artificial preservatives or colors and is high-quality limited ingredient dog food! Resultantly, Blue Buffalo Basics Formula is one of the most dependable Cavapoo Dog foods for skin and coat issues.
The diet is formulated to meet the needs of adult dogs. Featuring salmon as the only meat/fish-based protein ingredient. Salmon is a great source of Omega-3 fatty acids to help fight inflammation associated with skin disease and help reduce itchiness.
The diet is not grain-free as it contains oatmeal and brown rice. However, allergies to grains are very rare and are more commonly associated with wheat, corn, and soy – not rice or oats.
The protein content is fairly low at 22%. Likely as Salmon is used as the protein source which is an expensive ingredient. So if your dog is very high energy this would not be the ideal diet and is best suited to those of moderate to low energy levels
Best For Cavoodles with skin problems who want to try a limited ingredient diet that is not prescription.
Pros
- Natural dog food with no artificial by-products, colors, or additives
- High levels of antioxidants for immune system health
- Real salmon is the only meat/fish protein source
- Excellent customer ratings
Cons
- Low protein at 22% dry matter so not for highly active dogs.
- On the more expensive side but quality food is worth it
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4. Best For Cavapoo’s With Sensitive stomachs-Hill’s Science Diet Adult, Small Bites, Dog Dry Food Perfect Digestion Chicken
Cavoodles are known to have sensitive stomachs as well as skin problems and this diet is perfect for them!
Perhaps, the most attractive feature of this quality diet is the highly digestible protein sources of chicken and chicken meal. It also contains flaxseed, beet pulp and pecan shells which are great prebiotic fibers for digestive health. Veterinarians highly recommend this diet to achieve the elusive “perfect poop”
It is manufactured in the USA by a US company. There are high levels of Vitamin E and Omega-6 fatty acids to support the Cavoodle’s skin and coat.
This food is reported to be super tasty, Which will help those fussier eaters empty the bowl.
Best For Cavapoo’s with sensitive stomachs or who want to improve stool consistency
Pros
- No artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives added
- Easy to digest with highly digestible protein sources
- Reviewers report excellent palatability for fussy eaters
- Added prebiotic “Active Biome” fibers from several sources to improve the microbiome and gut health
- Added Vitamin E and Omega-6 fatty acids to improve skin and coat
- The bold claim of “perfect poop in 7 days”
- AACO statement: Formulated to meet Adult life stage: better than an all life stages diet
- Small kibble size
Cons
- Not suitable for puppies
- Freshness reduces towards the bottom of the bag so make sure you only purchase a bag size that will last 4-6 weeks and no longer
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5. Most Affordable- NUTRO NATURAL CHOICE Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food, Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe
Not everyone can afford some of the diet on this list. At an affordable price point at under $3 per pound, you might wonder about the quality. The ingredient list is quite impressive containing the typical nutritious ingredients of chicken, chicken meal and whole grains. It is slightly lower in protein than others at 26% and there are no veterinarians on staff.
Best For: A quality diet at a more affordable price point
Pros
- Ingredient list is good with real chicken as the first ingredient
- Made with non-GMO ingredients
- Affordable
- Great for picky eaters
Cons
- Lower in protein and higher in carbs than some of the other recommendations.
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6. Best For Fussy Cavoodle’s- Royal Canin Small Breed Adult
Royal Canin Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food is designed to meet the specific nutritional needs of small dog breeds. These breeds require more calories per pound of body weight than large dogs, and the food contains L-carnitine to help metabolize fat and maintain a healthy weight if your dog is prone to weight gain. The food is also enriched with the omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA from fish oil to support healthy skin and a beautiful, shiny coat. Plus, it is highly palatable to ensure that even the pickiest eaters are satisfied. You can mix this food with your dog’s favorite wet food if they like to mix it up. The small kibble is quite a unique star shape with a savory aroma. Reviewers noted that even their fussiest dogs loved this food and rated it 4.8/5 stars across various review sites.
Best For: Fussy Cavapoo’s that turn their noses up at other dry diets
Pros
- Most dogs love its delicious taste
- Scientifically formulated with a unique kibble shape
- Adapted energy for dogs prone to weight gain with added L-carnitine to help burn fat and fuel muscle
Cons
- Lower in protein at 27% dry matter basis
- Corn is the first ingredient and chicken-byproduct meal is the second. While both of these ingredients do provide valuable nutrients there is no mention of chicken meal or chicken in the ingredient deck.
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7. Best Fresh Food: PetPlate Tail Waggin’ Turkey
It can be tough to find great fresh recipes for your furry friend, but here is just the thing! This high-protein turkey recipe is made with lean turkey protein and fresh veggies. It’s perfect if you’re looking to feed homemade dog food without the cooking. This diet contains no unhealthy chemicals whatsoever; all ingredients are 100% human-grade ingredients (no cheap stuff here!). Kettle-cooked at USDA certified kitchens following safety standards identical to ones used when cooking food consumed by humans themselves.
Best For: Those that want to give their Cavapoo a homemade diet but don’t have the time to make one
Pros
- Ingredient list is excellent
- Made with non-GMO ingredients
- Great for picky fussy eaters
- Subscription service which means you don’t have to worry about running out of food
- High protein and high moisture
Cons
- Expensive
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8. Highest Protein Dry: Rawrev Natural Grain-Free Small Breed Dry Dog Food by Wellness Core
If you are looking for a high protein diet then this is one for you. Meat proteins are the first three ingredients in RawRev. This diet is all-natural without any fillers or artificial preservatives and none of the ingredients are GMO.
Another notable feature of this food is that it is grain-free making it perfect for dogs with stomach sensitivities to grains. That said, the jury is still out on whether grain-free foods are all they claim to be, and allergies to grains are far less common than allergies to meat proteins.
With prebiotics and probiotics added for a healthy digestive system. With high levels of omega-3 fatty acids from Salmon Oil and flaxseed for healthy skin and an attractive shiny coat.
Pros
- Grain-free
- Liked by picky eaters
- High protein content
Cons
- Arrives crumbled in the bag
- Is manufactured in a facility that processes grains so if your dog has been diagnosed with a wheat or soy allergy you may want to avoid this food.
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9. Best Puppy Food for Cavapoo Puppies: Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Small Paws Chicken Meal, Barley & Brown Rice Dry Dog Food
Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Small & Toy Breed Dry Dog Food provides your pup with the perfect balance of nutrients for a healthy lifestyle. It is one of the best puppy foods with excellent reviews and ratings across multiple sites. Made with nutritious ingredients like savory chicken meal and barley, this formula is designed to meet the needs of both your pet and their growing little bodies! Manufactured in America and recommended by veterinarians is a big plus in my books.
Best For: Cavapoo Puppy
Pros
- Made in the USA
- AAFCO statement for growth, gestation and lactation – not all life stages
- Highly digestible natural ingredients
- Antioxidants and vitamin E and C blend work together to help boost immunity
- Low stool volume = less poop to pick up!
- No artificial colors or flavors
Cons
- Packaging keeps changing
- 27% protein so on the moderate side
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10. Best Diet for Senior Cavapoos: Purina Pro Plan Adult 7+ Bright Mind Small Breed Chicken & Rice Formula
Senior dogs have different nutritional needs to adults and Cavapoos are no exception. Senior pets are slowing down and have a reduced ability to digest protein. Purina Pro Plan Adult 7+ Bright Mind Small Breed Chicken & Rice Formula is the perfect diet to keep their minds sharp and joints healthy.
PROS:
- Made in the USA
- Brain boosting nutrients containing fish oil, antioxidants, and arginine for mental alertness
- Supplemented with chelated minerals for better nutrient absorption
- No artificial additives or colors
- Joint support with Glucosamine and EPA, an omega-3 fatty acid
- Higher levels of digetible protein at 33% dry matter to help maintain muscle mass as they age
CONS:
- While most dogs report to love it. There are a few that need it to be top-dressed with canned food to improve palatability
How to Choose Good Quality Cavapoo Food
When it comes to choosing the best food for your Cavoodle, there are a few things you need to take into consideration. The first is their age, as puppies have different nutritional needs than adult dogs. You’ll also want to think about their activity level, as more active dogs will need more calories.
If your dog has any allergies or sensitivities, you’ll need to find a food that doesn’t contain any of the ingredients they’re allergic to. And finally, you’ll want to consider your budget and how much you’re willing to spend on dog food each month.
AAFCO: Complete and Balanced
Look for dog foods approved by the American Association of Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). It’s normally mentioned on pet food labels just after the ingredient deck. If the label doesn’t say “complete and balanced,” then it doesn’t meet AAFCO standards for a balanced diet you can feed long term.
Lifestage
I am a strong proponent of choosing a diet for the appropriate life stage. There are so many diets on the market that state “all life stages” on the AAFCO statement. It is a lot cheaper to formulate a diet that covers “all life stages” rather than one for growth or adults.
Diets with an “all life stage” statement are designed for the most demanding life stage which is growth and reproduction. Diets for growth are high in calories and are generally not appropriate for adults and senior dogs who will likely gain weight on these formulations.
For a Puppy up until 10 months of age if a small breed (or 12 months if a medium breed) make sure that they are on a specific puppy formulation. And the AAFCO statement states it is for growth. Adult dog food is often lacking high enough minerals and energy for puppies and can lead to growth and health problems.
The Ingredients
All the ingredients making up the food should be listed by water weight with the heaviest first. Ensure that real meat, such as chicken, beef, or pork, is the main ingredient since they are a source of biologically appropriate high-quality proteins. Proteins get broken down to amino acids in the small intestine and are important for energy, muscle development, hormone and blood production plus many more
Additionally, look out for fresh fruits and vegetables as they are reliable sources of antioxidants that boost overall immunity. They need to be higher up the ingredient deck. If they are lower down they are an afterthought and there for marketing purposes only as they will have minimal to no benefit.
Just like humans, dogs need vitamins and minerals. Ensure the food you buy has all the essential minerals for complete nutrition. Some of the vitamins and minerals your dog needs include vitamin A, vitamin B12, calcium, and more. Vitamin E is often added for skin and coat health which is important for Cavapoo’s and other Doodles.
Prebiotic fibers are a great addition as well. They are nondigestible fibre such as psyllium, cellulose, and beet pulp that feed the good gut bacteria and help improve the microbiome and firm the stools
Essential fatty acids are a nutrient to look for in the ingredient list. Look out for fish oils which are high in Omega-3 fatty acids and can help fight inflammation and improve the skin. Omega-6 fatty acids from vegetable oils can also help improve the skin and coat.
Natural Composition
The food should be 100% natural without any artificial preservatives and colors. These additives can cause an adverse food reaction such as diarrhea.
Kibble size and size appropriate Diet
Cavoodles are small to medium-breed dogs depending on the size of the poodle parent. If they are under 22 pounds they are considered small dogs and you should select a small breed appropriate diet.
Small breeds and large breeds have specific nutritional requirements unique to their size. Small breed dogs tend to have higher energy requirements and smaller mouths so need slightly higher energy, small kibbled diet.
by-products
By-products are the leftovers after the meat for human consumption has been removed. This could include chicken intestines, bones, fat, and feet. There is an argument that animal by-product meals provide valuable nutrition. Personally, this isn’t something I would consume, or want to feed to my dog.
Digestibility
Whichever food you give to your pet should be highly digestible for maximum absorption of nutrients and be easier on the stomach. A highly digestible food also means less poop to pick up and firmer stools!
Vet and Experts’ Recommendations
Does the pet food company conduct research and employ vets on staff? Making pet food is a lucrative business and many companies do no research to see if their pet food actually performs as they say it will.
What about Allergies to the Food?
True food allergies and allergic reactions are very uncommon. While skin allergies are common, they are more typically associated with environmental allergies and flea allergies.
If you suspect your Cavapoo is allergic to something in their diet talk to your veterinarian as they may need to go on a diet trial.
However, food intolerances and sensitivities are more common and usually manifest in diarrhea, soft stool, or increased frequency of stools. Try a diet formulated for sensitive stomachs if you think this may be a problem in your Cavapoo.
Frequently Asked Questions
Check out the following queries and their responses and see if you can gain any meaningful information from the brief Q&A session generated.
Q: Why should I rely on food delivery companies as a source of food for my dog?
A: I could think of several reasons why you ought to try this service. First, the meals are fresh and made from high-quality ingredients. Many pets love the taste of freshly made food and with these services, you don’t need to cook for your pooch!
Q: Wet or dry food, which one is best for my Cavapoo?
A: Most pet owners prefer dry food due to the convenience it offers such as ease of storage, transportation, and serving. However, take your time to read the label and understand the pet food company that makes it. The great thing about quality dry food is the variety of offerings and it tends to be lower in cost per day. Wet food is more expensive but can be higher in protein and more palatable – especially for fussy eaters.
Benefits of Wet Food:
Increased water intake
Some pets may struggle to get enough hydration day-to-day, which is particularly important in summer or in pets that are prone to urinary tract infections (a common problem in small female dogs). Wet food has increased moisture content so it’s a great way to add additional hydration to your pet’s daily intake.
Great palatability
Since wet food has a stronger smell compared to dry food, the enhanced aroma makes wet food more palatable for fussy eaters. Plus, since it’s easy to chew and has an enticing meaty aroma, wet food can also be a great choice to encourage feeding for puppies, seniors and pets recovering from illness.
Vet tip: If you have to give your dog medication in the form of tablets, it’s easier to hide medication in wet food.
Variety
Wet food helps provide variety in flavor, texture, and aroma, which can make mealtime more enjoyable and exciting. Plus, there are lots of flavors and textures available to suit your dog’s unique tastes!
Dog food can be classified into dry and wet food. Each one has its advantages and disadvantages. The vast majority of pet parents go for dry food for its ease of storage and convenience. It’s generally easy on the pocket but contains low levels of fluid and protein. On the other hand, wet dog foods are pretty expensive but contain higher amounts of proteins and fluids. That said, you should consult with your vet before deciding what food is best for your Cavapoo.
Benefits of Dry Food
More economical
Dry food contains approximately 4 x more calories per pound than wet food. This makes it more economical on a cost-per-day basis for your Cavapoo.
Flexible feeding
For dogs who like to eat on their own schedule, dry food is very convenient because you can leave it in their bowl all day for them to nibble on whenever they feel like it. In comparison, wet food must be removed within 60 minutes of it being set out.
Can improve oral health
Some (not all!) diets are designed with a dental benefits. This can help reduce plaque and tartar buildup.
Convenient and easy
Kibble wins for convenience. Scoop up the right amount for your dog, pour it into the dish, and done.
Q: What ingredients should I avoid for my Cavapoo’s food?
A: There are some ingredients that are likely to cause digestive issues in your pet. They include BHA and BHT(carcinogenic properties), dairy products, raw eggs, cooked bones, and many others.
BHA and BHT
It’s not uncommon for dog foods to contain artificial preservatives. Butylated Hydroxyanisole (BHA) and Butylated Hydroxytoluene (BHT) are listed on the label of some processed dog foods. They are synthetic antioxidants used to extend the shelf life of dog food.
The International Agency for Research on Cancer classifies these additives as potential carcinogens. Exposure to these chemicals has been shown to cause kidney, thyroid, and liver problems in rats. As a pet parent, avoid these preservatives and choose dog foods that use nitrogen flushing or rosemary extract to increase the shelf life.
Dairy products
Dogs are lactose intolerant and have a hard time digesting dairy products. If they consume dairy products, they’ll have bloating and diarrhea. Be careful with ice cream and cheese because they can cause inflammation of the pancreas as they are very high in fat.
Raw eggs
Some eggs come with the risk of bacteria known as Salmonella that can make your dog sick. Cooking the egg properly eliminates the bacteria and can be a great protein source for your Cavapoo.
Cooked bones
Cooked bones are unsafe for dogs to eat. When you cook a bone, it becomes brittle and dry. When a dog chews a cooked bone, it can crack and splinter, causing painful cuts to his mouth and gums. The sharp edges can also get stuck in the intestines.
Other foods you shouldn’t give your pooch include nuts, unripe tomatoes, raisins, grapes citrus fruits, avocados, garlic, caffeine, and chocolate.
How often should I feed My Cavapoo?
You should feed a Cavapoo 2 times a day from 3 months of age. Feed them according to the feeding guide of the diet you choose. Make sure they are on a puppy-specific diet until they are 10-12 months.
After 7 years, they are considered seniors and should be on a senior diet.
What do you feed a fussy Cavapoo?
I would highly recommend the diet above for fussy eaters. A reputable high-quality brand should have a 100% money-back guarantee. Sometimes top dressing the dry food with wet can really help improve acceptance as well. Just make sure you take this into their calorie allowance for the day or you may end up with a pudgy pooch.
Another alternative is a freshly prepared meal like Pet Plate. Dogs love these fresh diets.
Can I feed a Homemade Diet to my Cavapoo?
You certainly can. Just keep in mind that making a quality, complete and balanced home-prepared meal is costly and takes time. I would highly recommend you check out Balance It for vet designed recipes and supplements
What Human Food Can Cavapoo’s Eat?
As a general rule, any lean meats and carbs such as pasta and rice are fine. Cooked root vegetables such as pumpkin and sweet potato. Some fruits are OK such as strawberries, melons, and apples (without the seeds). Avoid fatty, salty foods.
What are some of the common health problems that you are likely to find in Cavapoos?
While the appeal of the Doodle breeds is hybrid vigor – if they are bred from a parent with a heritable disease they are at risk of developing it too. Cavapoos are at risk of:
- Environmental allergies
- Food sensitivities
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
- Addison’s Disease
- Diabetes
- Cushing’s Disease
- Heart Disease
- Epilepsy
- Hip Dysplasia
Can I Feed my Cavapoo a Poodle Specific Diet?
There are some diets on the market that are specially formulated for poodles such as Royal Canin Poodle. They take into consideration some of the diseases they are prone to and add certain beneficial nutrients. There is no harm in feeding these diets to your Cavapoo if you see an improvement/benefit.
Can I feed my Cavapoo a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Specific Diet?
There are some Diets on the market that are specially formulated for Cavalier King Charles Spaniels such as Royal Canin Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. They take into consideration some of the diseases they are prone to and add certain beneficial nutrients. There is no harm in feeding these diets to your Cavapoo if you see an improvement/benefit.
Our Top Pick
My overall best choice for Cavapoo’s is the Science Diet Adult Small and Toy breed. Not only is it grain-free and with high protein content but it is also liked by picky eaters, a category in which the Cavapoo falls.
Dr. Elly has always loved animals, and she knew from a young age that she wanted to be a veterinarian. After studying hard in veterinary school, she practiced in several different countries before moving to North Carolina with her husband and young family. She currently works part time as a veterinarian while caring for her 4 busy children and writing this blog. Dr. Elly genuinely cares about the welfare of her patients. She currently has three dogs, two cats, 5 chickens and 2 rabbits (yes a bit of a zoo!)
