If you’ve been searching for a Cavoodle puppy, you’ve probably noticed that prices can vary significantly. Some breeders sell Cavoodles for $1000-$2000, while others charge $5000 or more. So, why is there such a huge difference?
The truth is, not all Cavoodles are bred the same way, and not all breeders hold the same standards. The cost of breeding, when done right, is expensive. If a Cavoodle is being sold at an unusually low price, you should ask yourself: what corners were cut?
Let’s break down the real cost of ethical breeding and why a high-quality Cavoodle is worth the investment.
The Cost of Ethical Breeding
A reputable breeder invests heavily in their breeding dogs, their puppies, and their breeding program. Here are some of the key factors that influence the price of a well-bred Cavoodle:
Health Testing & DNA Screening
A responsible breeder will DNA test their parent dogs to screen for hereditary diseases such as:
Episodic Falling Syndrome – An issue in Cavaliers.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) – An eye condition leading to blindness in Poodles.
These tests ensure only the healthiest dogs are bred, reducing the risk of costly vet bills and heartbreak later.
Veterinary Care & Pregnancy Costs
Good breeders invest in their mums and puppies before, during, and after birth:
Progesterone testing – To determine the best time for mating.
Ultrasounds & X-rays – To confirm pregnancy and puppy count.
Calcium supplements & high-quality nutrition – To support the mother.
Vet checks & vaccinations – To ensure every mum and puppy is healthy.
A breeder who cuts costs by skipping vet visits or health screenings can sell puppies cheaply, but at what cost?
Living Conditions & Socialization
Where are the puppies raised? Ethical breeders raise their puppies in a loving home, not in outdoor cages or on concrete floors. They ensure:
Clean, hygienic environments (bedding changed daily).
Early Neurological Stimulation (ENS) – To develop confident, resilient puppies.
Toilet training & desensitization – Helping puppies adjust before they go home.
Play areas & enrichment toys – To stimulate learning and development.
Puppies from backyard breeders or puppy farms often lack proper socialization, making them fearful or anxious in new environments.
The Quality of the Parents
The quality of the parent dogs determines the quality of the puppies.
Reputable cavoodle breeders invest in top-quality breeding dogs who:
Follow breed standards.
Health test their breeding stock.
Take pride in their lineage (often showing their dogs in competitions).
A high-quality pedigree Cavalier or Toy Poodle can cost $4000+, whereas a backyard breeder may buy a cheap Cavalier or Toy Poodle on Gumtree for $1000 – with no health history or breed standard assurance.
The Difference Between F1, F1b, and F2 Cavoodles
The generation of a Cavoodle also plays a role in its coat, temperament, and price.
| Generation | Parentage | Coat Type | Temperament | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| F1 Cavoodle | Cavalier x Poodle | Soft fleece, wavy | Best temperament, balanced mix | Higher |
| F1b Cavoodle | F1 Cavoodle x Poodle | Curly, high-maintenance | More Poodle-like, can be anxious | Lower |
| F2 Cavoodle | Cavoodle x Cavoodle | Mixed results (coarse or straight) | Can lack consistency | Lower |
If you want a true “Teddy Bear” Cavoodle with a fleece coat, stick to an F1 Cavoodle for the best coat quality, temperament, and health.
Red Flags: Cheap Puppies & Scams
Be wary of Cavoodles being sold for cheap on places like Gumtree. These can often be:
Puppy farm dogs – Raised in horrible conditions with little care.
Unethical backyard breeders – Who don’t do health testing and place any 2 dogs together for mating.
Scams – Fake listings that steal deposits and disappear.
Questions to Ask Before Buying:
Does the breeder DNA test their breeding dogs?
Do they show the living conditions of their dogs on social media or via video/facetime?
Do they provide a health certificate from a vet?
Do they provide a puppy pack with a blanket with litter scent & heartbeat toy?
Do they have an ABN, pay tax, and registered with a reputable organisation?
Do they offer ongoing support after you bring your puppy home?
If the answer is no to any of these, you may be looking at a red flag breeder.
Is a Cheap Cavoodle Worth the Risk?
A cheap Cavoodle may seem like a bargain, but you could end up spending thousands in vet bills if the puppy comes from a breeder who:
Skipped health testing.
Didn’t vaccinate or worm properly.
Kept the puppies in unsanitary conditions.
Didn’t socialize the puppies, leading to behavioral issues.
Remember: You’re not just buying a puppy for a few months – you’re investing in a companion for the next 10-15 years.
Why Ethical Breeding Matters
At Dreamy Cavoodles, we take immense pride in raising healthy, happy, and well-socialized Cavoodles.
DNA testing & health checks on all parent dogs.
Top-quality, pedigree Cavalier mums.
ENS, toilet training, and socialization from birth.
Hygienic, home-raised puppies, regularly wormed and kept clean.
Comprehensive Puppy Pack (with scent blanket & heartbeat toy).
Lifetime support for new owners.
We believe in breeding for quality, not just profit. Unlike some breeders who breed any dog they have, we retire any female who does not meet our standards.
We don’t cut corners, and that is reflected in the health, temperament, and beauty of our Cavoodles.
Final Thoughts: You Get What You Pay For
While it may be tempting to buy a cheap Cavoodle, the risks far outweigh the savings. A well-bred, ethically raised Cavoodle is worth every cent for their health, temperament, and quality of life.
When choosing a breeder, do your research, ask the right questions, and invest in a puppy that will bring you joy for years to come.
Thinking of bringing a Cavoodle into your home? At Dreamy Cavoodles, we raise our puppies with love and care to ensure they become adorable and well-balanced family pets. Visit dreamycavoodles.com.au to learn more!