Cockapoo is a hybrid dog that is developed by crossing a purebred Poodle with a purebred Cocker Spaniel. Other names for Cockapoo are Cockapoodle, Spoodle, Cockerpoo, and Cock-a-poo. Cockapoos are intelligent, easy to train, and make great family pets.
This post explains the breed characteristics, vital stats, history, size, temperament, and general health and care of a Cockapoo.
Let’s get started!
Cockapoo Breed Characteristics
We have listed below some characteristics of Cockapoo. This is meant to be a general guideline for Cockapoo Dogs.
Adaptability
Cockapoo is an adaptable designer breed.
- The Cockapoos can live a good life in apartments as long as they get the regular exercise they need.
- This happy-go-lucky charmer is well suited for novice owners.
- Cockapoos are sensitive dogs and can’t handle harsh treatment.
- These dogs have a fairly good tolerance for hot and cold atmospheres.
Friendliness
Cockapoos are known to be cheerful and form solid bonds with their human companions.
- With inherited naturally happy disposition, Cockapoos are usually friendly, confident, and loving dogs.
- They are gentle and friendly with children.
- Cockapoos inherit dog-friendly traits from both parents and love being around other dogs.
- They are stranger-friendly dogs and fall in love with every stranger they meet.
Health and Grooming
Cockapoos are not very healthy dogs and are moderately easy to groom.
- The grooming requirements vary depending on their coat. They are moderately easy to groom.
- Cockapoos do not shed a lot and are mostly considered hypoallergenic.
- They have a very low drooling tendency. If you dislike slobber spots on your clothes, Cockapoos are a good choice.
- Cockapoos are prone to many genetic health conditions.
Trainability
Cockapoos are intelligent and are easy to train dogs.
- Cockapoos are easy to train with positive reinforcement. They are quick to pick up the commands and lessons.
- Combining two smart dog breeds, Cockapoos are remarkably intelligent.
- Cockapoos have a moderate prey drive and generally won’t chase passing animals.
- Cockapoos puppies can sometimes bite or nip at people or other things.
- They don’t bark often and have a low tendency to bark frequently.
Physical Needs
Cockapoo Dogs are playful and have moderate energy levels.
- Cockapoos are highly playful dogs. You can encourage their playful nature through activities like fetch, agility, and flyball.
- Cockapoos have a moderate energy level but need a certain level of daily activity.
Vital Stats About Cockapoo
Let’s take a look at some vital stats of Cockapoos:
| Stats | Description |
| Dog Breed Group | Mixed breed dogs |
| Purpose | Companionship |
| Temperament/ personality | Sweet, Intelligent, Friendly |
| Average Height | From under 10 to over 15 in. tall at the shoulder |
| Weight Range | From under 6 to over 19 lbs. |
| Energy level | Moderate |
| Ancestry | Cocker Spaniel, Poodle |
| Overall grooming needs | Moderate to high |
| Life Span | 12 to 15 years |
History of Cockapoo
The Cockapoo is a relatively old hybrid breed and was first developed in the United States in the 1960s. This crossbreed became more well known and has gained huge popularity over the last decades.
The Cockapoo Club of America was founded in 1999 by Mary D. Foley. Later on, in 2004, the American Cockapoo Club was founded. The North American Cockapoo Registry, formed in 1999, provides certification for Cockapoos who are the results of 1st through 6th-generation breedings.
Temperament and Personality of Cockapoo
Cockapoos are hybrid dogs with a sweet and friendly temperament. They inherit the affectionate, loyal, and friendly nature of both parent breeds. Cockapoos dogs are lively and full of energy.
A typical Cockapoo is intelligent, easy to please and make striking family pets. These companion dogs have a fun-loving nature. These little clowns have an outgoing nature and thrive on their owners’ attention.
Cockapoos are kid-friendly dogs and are ideal for families with young children. Cockapoos are playful dogs and enjoy playing with their human companions.
The temperament of the Cockapoo can often vary based on the distinct genetic contribution of each parent. It also depends upon how they are raised, and how much they have been socialized.
Size of Cockapoo
The appearance and size of Cockapoos can vary. These dogs come in four varieties including Teacup, Toy, Miniature, and Standard Cockapoos.
- Standard Cockapoos
- Average height: at least 15 in.
- Average weight: more than 19 lbs.
- Miniature Cockapoos
- Average height: 11 and 14 in.
- Average weight: 13 to 18 lbs.
- Toy Cockapoos
- Average height: can reach 10 in.
- Average weight: under 12 lbs.
- Teacup Cockapoos
- Average height: less than 10 in.
- Average weight: under 6 lbs.
Major Health Concerns of Cockapoo
Cockapoos are prone to few health issues of either of the pedigree parents. They might inherit some genetic diseases from either the Cocker Spaniel and Poodle.
- Cataract: A cataract is an opacity on the lens of a Cockapoo’s eye and causes difficulty in seeing. Cataracts can be hereditary or may result from some disease, old age, or trauma to the eye. The dog’s eyes may look cloudy or bluish-grey. A cataract in Cockapoos can cause a mild decrease in eyesight to complete blindness in severe cases.
- Patellar Luxation: Patellar luxation is the looseness of the kneecap of your Cockapoo. This happens when the muscles and the tendons of your dog that hold the kneecap in place are too weak.
- Allergies: Cockapoos are prone to a variety of allergies. They may be allergic to pollens, molds, certain foods, and flea powders, or shampoos. There are three main types of allergies are food-based, contact, and inhalant allergies.
- Hip Dysplasia: This hereditary condition is the result of abnormal development of hip joints (one or both). Hip dysplasia in Cockapoos leads to instability and degeneration of the joints. It can result in mild or severe pain and arthritis.
- Liver disease: Liver disease in Cockapoos can be chronic or acute. Signs that your Cockapoo has liver disease include loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, blood clotting problems, or jaundice. It requires immediate medical attention.
- Ear infections: Ear infections are a common and often recurrent problem in Cockapoos. The symptoms of ear infections are itchiness, redness, swelling, excessive scratching, unpleasant odor, or the buildup of a waxy substance.
How to Take Care of Cockapoo
Taking care of your Cockapoo involves a lot of things including feeding, grooming, training, and exercises.
Feeding your Cockapoo
Good diet and nutrition are important for your Cockapoo’s health. They need a balanced diet rich in proteins, essential vitamins, and minerals.
Try to keep a regular feeding schedule for your Cockapoo. Always offer a proper amount of food, appropriate to your dog’s age and size. Clean and fresh water should be available to your Cockapoo at all times.
Training your Cockapoo
Cockapoos are intelligent and fairly easy to train dogs. They learn best by positive reinforcement methods. Make Cockapoo training a positive experience filled with praise and rewards.
Cockapoos need consistent and firm training right from puppyhood. Start socializing your Cockapoo from a young age, during puppyhood. Spend extra time with your Cockapoo, beyond the training sessions.
Here are some of the training that you need to do with your Cockapoo puppy:
- Socialization with other people and pets
- Leash training
- Crate training
- Housebreaking
- Obedience training
Grooming Needs of Cockapoo
Cockapoos are low shedding dogs. They have a single, long coat that can range from straight to lose curls. Let’s have a look at the grooming needs of Cockapoo:
- Cockapoos need to be brushed regularly to prevent tangles and mats. This will keep their coat smooth and healthy.
- Cockapoos only need to be bathed when absolutely necessary. Always use high-quality dog shampoo and conditioner.
- The fur around the eyes should be trimmed to allow visibility.
- Cockapoo has long floppy ears that can easily become moist and infected. Clean them once a week to prevent infection.
- Brush your dog’s teeth at least two or three times a week to remove bacteria, tartar buildup and prevent gum infections.
- Trim their nails once or twice a month. This will keep their paws in good condition.
- Your Cockapoos’ eyes should be clear with no discharge, swelling, or redness.
Exercise Requirements of Cockapoo
Cockapoos have moderately energetic and require physical activity and mental stimulation to thrive. They require at least 20 – 30 minutes of exercise every day to stay healthy and stimulated. Cockapoo puppies require less exercise than adult dogs.
Cockapoos are extremely playful and adore physical and mental stimulation to keep them entertained. You can meet your dog’s exercise requirements by:
- Daily walks
- Tug of war
- Play with other dogs
- Hide and seek
- Fetch games
- Running around in an agility course
- Free play in the fenced yard
- Interactive and Puzzle toys
Parting Shot on Cockapoo
The bright-eyed Cockapoos are a combo of all the best aspects of Cocker Spaniels and Poodle. These little comedians combine the outgoing and sweet personality of the Cocker Spaniel with the good humor and low-shedding qualities of the Poodle.
You will never feel bored with your designer buddy. These adorable jokers will simply make every day a celebration!
If you want your Cockapoo to hit its life expectancy, you should feed them a healthy diet, meet their exercise requirements, and take care of their grooming needs.