Picture this…
You’re packing your suitcase, excited for a much-needed break.
But over your shoulder?
A pair of dark brown searching eyes are watching your every move.
Your Cavapoo knows.
You do know that?
And they’re not taking it well.
That look, the “please don’t leave me” stare — it hits you right in the heart.
And if you’ve been there (or dread being there), you’re not alone.
As summer travel ramps up, this is one of the most common and heartbreaking problems Cavapoo owners face.
Today, we’re tackling it head-on.
From care options to emotional prep, I’ll show you how to leave your Cavapoo without leaving behind a bundle of anxiety (for either of you).
Lets dive in..
Why Your Cavapoo Feels Like the World is Ending
Cavapoos form deep, loyal bonds.
It’s one of the reasons we love them so much.
It’s called loyalty and it works both ways.
It makes leaving them really hard — on them and for us.
A changes in routine, a strange places, new people — it’s not just confusing.
It’s terrifying.
But here’s the good news:
With the right setup and a little prep, you can help your Cavapoo feel safe while you’re away enjoying your holiday (vacations).
Here’s the options and advice…
Care Options That Actually Work (From Best to Still Working Well)
✅ Option 1: Family or Friends at Your Home
The gold standard. Familiar smells, routines, and zero disruption.
If you’re lucky enough to have this, treasure it because having someone who your dog knows will ease the anxiety for both of you.
✅ Option 2: Professional House Sitters
Services like TrustedHousesitters or PetStay connect you with dog-loving sitters who stay at your home.
Often retired couples or professionals who love dogs and treat yours like royalty. You can also google for dog sitters in your area but make sure you do your research and check out reviews first.
✅ Option 3: Calm, Family-Run Boarding
Avoid noisy kennels. Instead, look for:
Small, low-volume boarding homes
Flexible feeding & exercise routines
Tours available before booking
Staff trained in anxiety and gentle handling and of course do your own due diligence and research.
✅ Option 4: Local Dog Sitters
Platforms like Borrow my Doggy, Pawshake, Rover or Animal Aunts help you find local carers for at-home or in-their-home stays.
Often more personalised and less stressful than big facilities. But again, I sound like a Parrot, it’s vital to d research and due-diligence!
✅ Option 5: Family or Friends at Their Home
Probably the second best to option 1. Again, count yourself lucky if you have this option and provide them with everything you need. Write a list, and instructions on feeding times, how much food, walking and what your dog likes. For example, the belly rubs!
What Actually Helps Before You Leave
No matter which care option you pick, these tips help ease the emotional storm:
Stay Calm Yourself: Dogs mirror your energy. Rushed packing and stress = jittery dog. Take your time and try to remain calm around your dog.
Practice Mini Separations: Leave them with their sitter for short visits before your trip. Let them build trust without the panic. If you have a family member watching them in their home, see if they will let you drop them off a few times in the build-up to your time away. Leave them for a few hours. Let your dog get a few treats from them and start to enjoy being around them.
Comfort Items Work: An unwashed jumper. A favourite toy. Familiar smells = safety. This is especially important if your dog is away from home.
Tell the Carer Everything: I’ve touched on this above, but it important. Tell them your dog’s quirks, fears, routines, favourite game. Overshare, write list, leave phone numbers, It helps.
Don’t Skip Exercise
A well-exercised and fed dog = a more happy and relaxed dog while you’re away. You set the standard.
It’s not easy leaving your dog, but with preparation and a few dummy-runs, there’s no reason why you both can’t enjoy your break.
However, be prepared for a bundle of enjoyment and excitement on your return — it’s a priceless memory that stay with you for ever.
And remember..
You’re allowed to feel guilty.
Going away doesn’t make you a bad owner. It makes you human.
Remember, before you go:
- Prepare early
- Choose peace-of-mind over cheapest option
- Set communication boundaries so you’re not refreshing your phone every hour
While away:
- Trust your plan
- Your dog is likely doing better than you think
- Enjoy your break — they’ll sense your calm when you return
Want Even More Help With Cavapoo Worries (Like Puppy Biting, Insurance, Separation Anxiety & More)?
If you found today’s issue helpful, you’ll love the Cavapoo Compendium. It’s a no-fluff, 63-rule guide packed with real-life lessons, gentle training tips, and emotional support for Cavapoo owners.
Mostly written from my experience raising Arlo (and learning the hard way!
👉 Click here to peek inside the Cavapoo Compendium
You might be surprised how many struggles it solves and the price is rising soon.
Thanks for reading,
Colin & Arlo 🐾
