Whether you call them Cavapoos, Cavadoodles, or Cavoodles, it’s no secret these adorable dogs are one of the most playful, energetic, and sociable breeds there are.
Cuddling with your Cavapoo, especially after a long, tiring day, can be just what the doctor ordered!
But maybe a strange face or noise has you wondering whether your Cavapoo likes to cuddle as much as you do…
So, do Cavapoos like to cuddle? Cavapoos will usually tolerate cuddling and, in many cases, enjoy it a lot! Cuddling is a way for your dog to show affection towards you, it releases the “love hormone” of oxytocin, and it also keeps them warm on chilly days.
Of course, there are exceptions to this. Like any other breed, a Cavapoo that hasn’t been properly socialized as a puppy might not like the idea of cuddling too much. At the end of the day, each dog also has its own personality and some just aren’t big snugglers.
Let’s dive deeper into a few of the reasons your Cavapoo may love cuddling up with you…
Reason 1: Oxytocin
There is actually a chemical reason your Cavapoo may like to cuddle! When dogs and humans interact in a positive way, like cuddling, a hormone called Oxytocin is released in both of them. Sometimes called the love hormone, it triggers happy and comfortable feelings for both you and your pup.
Reason 2: Affection
While most of our dogs’ social behaviors don’t really apply to us (their way of greeting being a prime example), cuddling is a way of showing affection that we share. Both dogs and humans with deep bonds will usually like to cuddle together. Your Cavapoo enjoys cuddling in part just to show how much they love you!
Like many other animals, dogs tend to cuddle or pile on each other for warmth. This dates back to their roots when they had to group up to avoid the cold. You might’ve seen newborn puppies still showing this behavior, but adult dogs do it as well! If it ever gets cold where you live, you’ve probably noticed your Cavapoo getting more cuddly in chilly weather.
Why Do Some Cavapoos Like to Cuddle More Than Others?
Some dogs like cuddling and some dogs like it less or not at all. Genetics is a pretty important factor in this. Naturally independent dogs will be less affectionate overall and will be less willing to cuddle. Other dogs, especially smaller Cavapoos, are much more likely to love to cuddle and hop on your lap.
Of course, if your dog doesn’t like to cuddle, that might just mean they like to show their love in a different way. Many dogs prefer to follow their owner wherever they go, bring them their favorite toys, or just stare lovingly into their eyes.
How to Tell If Your Cavapoo Enjoys Cuddling
Photo courtesy of @jasmine_and_brandi on Instagram.
Since humans and dogs don’t communicate the same way, it’s hard to tell with certainty whether your dog likes to cuddle. Some obvious signs of a happy dog are rolling over, nuzzling or softly ‘headbutting’ you, and wagging their tail. Some dogs aren’t as communicative though, so you still may be asking yourself “do Cavapoos like to cuddle?”.
Many dogs aren’t big fans of cuddling or being held. While we naturally view hugs as signs of love and affection, dogs might see them as aggressive, since you’re stopping them from moving. This means cuddling and hugs can cause anxiety for some dogs, and though Cavapoos are mostly accepting, this can include them as well.
If your Cavapoo is avoiding eye contact, has their tail low, and is frequently licking their lips or yawning during a hug or while cuddling, they may be just tolerating the affection and not actually enjoying it.
Dogs are not stuffed animals, though the toy-sized Cavapoo may look like one. Respecting their preferences is important for both you and them to have the best time together.
If there are children in your household, teaching them the limits when it comes to interacting with dogs is even more important. Not all dogs are used to giant, rough hugs from kids.
How to Train Your Cavapoo to Cuddle
If your Cavapoo doesn’t love to cuddle with you right now, there are ways to slowly ease them into it and even help them start to enjoy a good snuggle.
Having said that, however, some dogs might be too energetic for it and start becoming cuddlers as they grow older and slow down. Even if you didn’t or couldn’t train them as a puppy there are still some things you can do to help them enjoying cuddling.
‘Scheduling’ a cuddle session right after a long walk or a trip to the park then is a great idea. A tired dog is a happy dog, and also a dog more likely to want to lay down and cuddle with you! Another great way to tire out your dog is by mentally challenging them! The Brain Training for Dogs program has some fantastic and fun “brain games” that help increase your dog’s mental stimulation.
Another good way to begin training is to start on cold days, when they benefit from the warmth of cuddling.
So, how do you train Cavapoos to enjoy cuddling?
Reward them whenever they lay next to you or on top of you. This can be with a bunch of pets and scratches, or with their favorite treat.
Gently pet your dog, while hand-feeding them their dog food instead of having them eat from the bowl. This is a great first step for getting a more reluctant dog to associate being touched with good feelings.
When your Cavapoo is calm, try placing them on your lap every once in a while, to get them used to it slowly.
Praising, petting, and other simple signs of affection also help. Your dog may learn to enjoy cuddling just by bonding with you more!
In short, you want to try to create a positive association with cuddling in your dog’s mind. This is done by giving affection and rewarding them when they respond well. Don’t expect a very aloof dog to become a cuddler overnight, however.
Training a dog, even a Cavapoo, to enjoy snuggling is a gradual process, but as long as you’re patient, they can learn to like cuddling as much as you do!
