Shih Poo vs Cavapoo: 5 Key Differences

You may be wondering what the differences are between a Shih Poo vs Cavapoo, whether you plan on adopting one or not. Both of these dogs are relatively easy to care for as well as friendly, but what features do they share and what differences separate them from one another?

In this article, we will answer everything you need to know about the Cavapoo and the Shih Poo so that you can have a full understanding of both breeds. We will discuss their physical and behavioral differences at length, as well as their ancestral differences. Let’s get started and learn all about these distinct cross breeds of dog now!

Comparing Shih Poo vs Cavapoo

Key Differences Between Shih Poo vs Cavapoo

There are many key differences between Shih Poos and Cavapoos. The average Cavapoo is larger than the average Shih Poo, in both height and weight. Shih Poos are found in fewer colors compared to the Cavapoo, though they both have uniquely textured coats. Finally, the Cavapoo is a more friendly and flexible dog compared to the high strung Shih Poo.

Let’s discuss all of these things in more detail now, along with a few other key facts!

Shih Poo vs Cavapoo: Size

While both of these dogs are on the toy or small side, there are some size differences between the average Shih Poo and the average Cavapoo. For example, Cavapoos are larger in both height and weight than the average Shih Poo, though it all depends on the individual dog. Let’s take a closer look at these figures now.

Shih Poos reach anywhere from 8-13 inches tall, while Cavapoos average 9-16 inches in height. Additionally, Cavapoos weigh 10-25 pounds on average, while Shih Poos weigh 5-25 pounds. However, most Shih Poos rarely weigh more than 20 pounds, making Cavapoos larger overall!

Shih Poo vs Cavapoo: Appearance

It can be difficult to tell a Cavapoo apart from a Shih Poo, given that they both have very distinct textures of fur. For example, the coat of the Cavapoo comes in more colors than the average Shih Poo coat, as most Shih Poos are white or brown. Additionally, the fur of the Cavapoo is often curly, while the Shih Poo coat is often wavy. However, it depends on how much poodle DNA is present in both of these dog breeds!

Given the large and impressive ears found on the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, the ears of the Cavapoo are longer than the ears of the average Shih Poo. Additionally, the face and eyes of the Cavapoo are rounder in appearance than the face of the Shih Poo.

Shih Poo vs Cavapoo: Ancestry and Breeding

The primary difference between the Shih Poo and the Cavapoo is their ancestry. While both of these dogs are fairly modern cross breeds, the Shih Poo is a cross between poodles and Shih Tzus while the Cavapoo is a cross between poodles and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. They were both bred for the same thing however: to be a small and hypoallergenic dog breed for families with allergies.

Shih Poo vs Cavapoo: Behavior

The behaviors of the Shih Poo and the Cavapoo differ slightly, though both will behave differently depending on the individual dog and the training that it receives. However, the average Cavapoo is much friendlier and welcoming than the average Shih Poo. Both breeds suffer heavily from separation anxiety when left alone, so you should keep this in mind if you are interested in adopting either breed.

Additionally, the Cavapoo tends to be more stubborn in its training compared to the average intelligent Shih Poo. Both dogs are very smart given their poodle DNA, and this can lead to some training difficulties. However, with time and patience, both of these breeds make fantastic companions for a variety of homes and families!

Shih Poo vs Cavapoo: Lifespan

A final difference between Shih Poos and Cavapoos lies in their lifespans. The Shih Poo lives longer on average than the Cavapoo, though it all depends on the health and care of the individual dog. However, given the fact that the Shih Tzu is one of the longest living dog breeds ever, it makes sense that Shih Poos live longer than Cavapoos.

Looking closely at their lifespans, Cavapoos live an average of 10-14 years, while Shih Poos live an average of 12-16 years total. Both of these breeds suffer from anxiety and stress, so keeping them calm and happy is key to a long and healthy life!

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Lim Tiaw Leong/Shutterstock.com