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Eng-A-Poo

The Eng-A-Poo, a delightful crossbreed of the English Toy Poodle and the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, is gaining popularity for its affectionate nature and manageable size. This hybrid inherits intelligence and a low-shedding coat from the Poodle side, combined with the gentle, friendly disposition of the Cavalier. Ideal for families and individuals alike, Eng-A-Poos offer companionship and adaptability, fitting well into various lifestyles and living environments. They are perfect for those looking for a smaller companion dog, embodying both charm and trainability.

Miscellaneous
Breed group
12 - 15 years
Lifespan
Height: 23–38 - 23–38 cm
Size
Black, White, Apricot, Gray, Brown
Color
Curly
Coat type
United States
Origin
Appearance Overview
Eng-A-Poos are small, sturdy dogs with a soft, often curly or wavy coat that can vary in color.
Size
Small, typically ranging from 10 to 15 inches in height.
Weight
Generally between 10 and 20 pounds, depending on the size of the parent breeds.
Coat
Varies, but often curly or wavy, and considered low-shedding.
Colors
Common colors include white, cream, apricot, red, black, and sometimes combinations or patterns.
Head
Well-proportioned with expressive, dark eyes and floppy ears.
Tail
Can be naturally short or docked, depending on the Cavalier parentage, often carried with a slight curl.
Temperament Overview
Eng-A-Poos are known for their affectionate, friendly, and intelligent personalities, making them excellent companions.
Affectionate
They form strong bonds with their families and love to cuddle.
Friendly
Generally good with children, strangers, and other animals, especially when socialized early.
Intelligent
Inheriting the Poodle's smarts, they are quick learners.
Playful
They enjoy interactive playtime and games.
Gentle
Their Cavalier heritage contributes to a calm and gentle demeanor.
Adaptable
They can thrive in various living situations, from apartments to houses with yards.
Eng-A-Poo suitability overview
Eng-A-Poos are best suited for individuals or families who can provide them with love, attention, and consistent training.
Pros
Affectionate and loving companions.
Relatively low-shedding, suitable for some allergy sufferers.
Intelligent and trainable.
Adaptable to various living situations.
Good with children and other pets when properly socialized.
Cons
Can be prone to certain genetic health issues.
Requires regular grooming.
May develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods.
Needs consistent training and socialization.
Their small size makes them vulnerable to injury from rough play.
Suitability conclusion
The Eng-A-Poo is an ideal companion for those seeking a small, affectionate, and intelligent dog that thrives on human interaction and fits well into a variety of lifestyles, provided they receive consistent care and attention.
Eng-A-Poo care requirements
Eng-A-Poos require regular grooming due to their coat, a balanced diet, and a comfortable living environment.
Grooming
Brush their coat several times a week to prevent matting and tangles. Professional grooming may be needed every few months.
Bathing
Bathe only when necessary, using a dog-specific shampoo.
Diet
Feed a high-quality dog food formulated for small breeds. Monitor their weight and adjust portions as needed.
Dental Care
Brush their teeth regularly to prevent dental disease.
Ear Cleaning
Check and clean their ears weekly to prevent infections, especially since floppy ears can trap moisture.
Nail Trimming
Trim nails regularly, usually every few weeks, to prevent overgrowth and discomfort.
Living Environment
They adapt well to both apartment living and homes with yards, provided they get enough exercise.
Eng-A-Poo training and exercise
Eng-A-Poos are generally easy to train due to their intelligence, and they require moderate exercise to stay happy and healthy.
Trainability
Eng-A-Poos respond well to positive reinforcement methods, such as treats and praise. Their intelligence makes them quick learners, but consistency is key. Early socialization and puppy training classes are highly recommended to ensure a well-behaved adult dog. Short, engaging training sessions are most effective.
Exercise needs
While they are not high-energy dogs, Eng-A-Poos still need daily exercise to prevent boredom and weight gain. A combination of walks, playtime in a yard or park, and interactive games like fetch or puzzle toys is ideal. Aim for at least 30-60 minutes of activity per day, which can be broken up into shorter sessions.
Notes and tips
Positive Reinforcement
Use treats, praise, and toys to motivate and reward good behavior.
Consistency
Establish clear rules and boundaries from the start.
Early Socialization
Expose your Eng-A-Poo to various people, animals, and environments early in life.
Mental Stimulation
Provide puzzle toys and interactive games to keep their minds engaged.
Short Sessions
Keep training sessions short and fun to maintain their interest.
Avoid Harsh Methods
Harsh training methods can damage their trust and are not effective.
Eng-A-Poo health
Eng-A-Poos are generally healthy, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain genetic health issues.
Patellar Luxation
A condition where the kneecap dislocates or moves out of its normal location.
Hip Dysplasia
A malformation of the hip joint that can lead to arthritis and pain.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
A degenerative eye disorder that can lead to blindness.
Mitral Valve Disease (MVD)
A heart condition common in Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, where the mitral valve degenerates.
Ear Infections
Prone to ear infections because of the floppy ears
Eng-A-Poo history
The Eng-A-Poo is a relatively new designer breed, with its origins rooted in the intentional crossing of English Toy Poodles and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. The goal was to create a companion dog that combined the Poodle's hypoallergenic qualities with the Cavalier's gentle and affectionate nature. While the exact timeframe of their origin is unclear, they likely emerged within the last few decades as designer dogs became more popular. The Eng-A-Poo is not recognized by major kennel clubs like the AKC, as it is a hybrid breed. However, it is recognized by some designer dog registries.
Faqs about Eng-A-Poo
Are Eng-A-Poos hypoallergenic?
While no dog is truly 100% hypoallergenic, Eng-A-Poos are considered low-shedding and may be a better choice for people with mild allergies, thanks to their Poodle heritage. However, individual reactions can vary.
How much exercise do Eng-A-Poos need?
Eng-A-Poos need moderate exercise, typically around 30-60 minutes per day, which can include walks, playtime, and interactive games.
Are Eng-A-Poos good with children?
Yes, Eng-A-Poos are generally good with children, especially when socialized early. Their gentle and playful nature makes them suitable family pets.
Do Eng-A-Poos bark a lot?
Eng-A-Poos are not typically excessive barkers, but they may bark to alert their owners to something unusual or if they are bored or lonely.
How often should I groom my Eng-A-Poo?
You should brush your Eng-A-Poo several times a week to prevent matting. Professional grooming may be needed every few months.
What is the lifespan of an Eng-A-Poo?
The average lifespan of an Eng-A-Poo is typically 12-15 years, although this can vary depending on genetics and overall care.
Are Eng-A-Poos easy to train?
Yes, Eng-A-Poos are generally easy to train due to their intelligence and eagerness to please. Positive reinforcement methods work best.
Do Eng-A-Poos get along with other pets?
Yes, with proper socialization, Eng-A-Poos typically get along well with other dogs and cats.
Is Eng-A-Poo a healthy breed?
Eng-A-Poos are generally healthy, but they can inherit certain health problems from their parents.
Where to find an Eng-A-Poo puppy?
It is important to do a research to find a reputable breeder. Ask questions about the puppy's parents.