When Do Cavapoos Calm Down?

The rough timeline

Every dog is different, but the general pattern looks like this:

• Puppy (to ~6 months): bursts of mad energy and zoomies between long naps.
• Adolescence (~6–18 months): the peak of the wild phase — testing boundaries, selective hearing, lots of energy.
• 1–2 years: most Cavapoos noticeably settle as they reach maturity.
• 2–3 years: calmer, steadier, but still playful — Cavapoos rarely lose their fun side entirely.

Why adolescence is the hard bit

The 6–18 month stretch catches owners out because the cute, biddable puppy seems to "forget" everything and turn boisterous. This is normal adolescence — a mix of hormones, boundary-testing and a still-developing brain. It is temporary. The worst thing you can do is give up on training now; the best thing is to stay calm, consistent and keep reinforcing the good habits. It really does pass.

What actually helps them settle

Age is only part of it — how you meet their needs matters more. The levers that genuinely calm a Cavapoo:

• Enough exercise — but not endless; see our exercise guide.
• Mental stimulation — a tired brain settles; puzzle feeders and training games work wonders.
• Routine — predictable days lower arousal.
• Enough sleep — this is the big one owners miss. Puppies and young dogs need 16–18+ hours; an over-tired Cavapoo gets more hyper, not less. Protect nap time.
• Calm reinforcement — reward settled behaviour rather than only engaging when they're bouncing.

When it isn't just age

If your Cavapoo is relentlessly hyper well beyond adolescence, it's usually a sign of an unmet need rather than personality: too little mental stimulation, too little sleep, or underlying anxiety. Chasing the energy with ever more exercise can backfire by building a fitter, more wired dog. Address the root — enrichment, rest and calm — and if you're stuck, a force-free trainer can help you read what your dog is actually asking for.