The True Cost of Owning a Cavoodle
Cavoodles have officially earned their place as one of Australia’s most loved family dogs and if you own one you will understand why. I fell in love with Cavoodles many years ago and my girls Bambi & Daisy fill my heart with so much joy. But let’s me honest, owning a Cavoodle can be costly and it is a very real financial commitment that many new owners underestimate.
If you’re thinking about adding a Cavoodle to your family in 2026 (or you already have one and are wondering where your money is going), this article breaks down the true cost of owning a Cavoodle (without sugar-coating it)
Loving a Cavoodle is priceless but caring for one definitely isn’t free.
The Purchase Price: Your First Big Investment
In Australia, a well-bred Cavoodle puppy from a reputable breeder typically costs between $4,000 and $7,500. This price reflects:
• Ethical breeding practices
• Health testing of parent dogs
• Proper socialisation
• Vet checks, vaccinations, and microchipping
• Early training foundations
Cheaper puppies often come with hidden risks: poor breeding, lack of health screening, and future vet bills that can far outweigh any upfront savings.
Vet Care: The Non-Negotiables
Routine veterinary care is one of your biggest ongoing costs. Your annual basics will look like this:
• Vaccinations: $120–$200
• Heartworm prevention: $100–$150 per year
• Flea and tick control: $150–$300 per year
• Annual health check: $80–$150
Desexing (once-off) will be $350–$700 depending on gender and clinic
Unexpected vet visits can easily run into the thousands, especially for dental issues, allergies, or digestive sensitivities which all common in oodle breeds. This is why pet insurance is less of a “nice to have” and more of a sanity-saving essential.
Pet Insurance: Your Financial Safety Net
In 2026, quality pet insurance for a Cavoodle typically starts at $50–$120 per month ($600–$1,400 per year) and increases with age so as they get older you will need to factor in higher costs. Pet insurance usually covers:
• Emergency surgery
• Illness and injury
• Specialist care
• Some specialist or behavioural treatment
Given how curious, energetic, and accident-prone Cavoodles can be, insurance often pays for itself the first time you actually need it. And be mindful that you can’t get insurance after a about 7 years old so start early and avoid any pre-existing issues that can come with getting insurance.If interested in insurance we use and recommend Knose. Use this link and the code MYCAV2M to get 2 months free
Grooming: The Fluffy Reality
Cavoodles are low-shedding, not low-maintenance. Professional grooming every 6–8 weeks is essential to prevent matting, skin infections, and discomfort. Typical costs:
• Full groom: $80–$160 (that equals $650–$1,200 per year) per dog
Add to that home maintenance grooming:
• Brushes and combs: $60–$150
• Detangling sprays and shampoos: $50–$200 per year
• Clippers (if you DIY between visits): $150–$300
That gorgeous coat comes with a real budget line.
Food: Fuel for a Healthy Cavoodle
Quality nutrition matters, especially for sensitive tummies and skin which cavoodles are known for. Monthly food costs:
• Premium dry food: $80–$150
• Fresh or raw feeding: $120–$250
So depending on feeding style and brand you’re looking at $1,000–$3,000 a year. That’s without extras like training treats, dental chews or supplements (joint, gut, skin). Your Cavoodle’s food bill can quietly rival your own.
Training and Behaviour Support
Cavoodles are smart but training isn’t optional if you want a calm, confident adult dog. Puppy trainiing will give them a good foundation and should be done early when they can absorb and learn quicker. Typical costs:
• Puppy school: $150–$300
• Private training sessions: $120–$180 per session
• Online courses and programs: $100–$400
Many owners also invest in separation anxiety support, enrichment toys, and confidence-building programs which might be costly at the start but will save your sanity and your dogs happiness as they navigate through their life.
Toys, Beds, Collars and Everyday Gear
The “small things” add up quickly:
• Beds and crates: $150–$400
• Harnesses, leads, ID tags: $80–$200
• Toys and enrichment: $200–$500 per year
• Bowls, travel gear, car restraints: $100–$300
Cavoodles are not minimalists. They like comfort, variety, and things that squeak. And all these things will need replacing over their lifetime. And if you are like me, then you can’t resist buying them cute and unique accessories.
Dog Sitting, Daycare and Holidays
If you work, travel, or want the occasional break, care costs become part of life. Costs can vary greatly depending on location, type of service and time of year but here are some guides:
• Doggy daycare: $50–$90 per day
• Home boarding: $60–$120 per night
• Pet sitting in your home: $80–$150 per night
Even a few trips a year can mean $1,000–$3,000 annually in care costs
For many Cavoodle owners, this is one of the most underestimated expenses.
The Real Annual Cost of Owning a Cavoodle in Australia
When you add it all up, a realistic yearly budget looks like this:
Low range: $3,500–$5,000
Mid range: $5,000–$7,500
Premium care lifestyle: $7,500–$12,000+
And that’s after the initial puppy purchase. Costs can add up and it’s important to have a realistic budget and expectation BEFORE you purchase a cavoodle puppy.
The Emotional Cost (and Why It’s Worth It)
Beyond the dollars, Cavoodles need time, routine, emotional presence, training and social connection: They are people-focused dogs and thrive in a family. Despite the high costs, there are plenty of rewards. Unconditional love, laughter, endless cuddles, a shadow that follows you room to room and a heart that thinks you are their whole world. And honestly, that part is priceless.
Owning a Cavoodle in Australia in 2026 is a premium pet experience. It’s not cheap. It’s not low-maintenance. And it’s definitely not something to go into blind.
But for the right person or family, the return on investment is extraordinary. I can’t imagine life without my girls Bambi & Daisy. They are definitely an integral part of my world.
