Thinking about adding a new furry companion? Are you looking for a dog that is loving, gentle, and easy going? Look no further because Cockapoo is your ultimate pet!
You might be wondering what this designer dog has to offer? Well, this post will guide you about everything you need to know about Cockapoos.
Let’s begin our ride!
What is a Cockapoo?
Cockapoo is a hybrid dog designed by crossing the Cocker Spaniel and the Poodle. Cockapoos are intelligent and easy to train dogs. These friendly dogs make great family companions.
These adorable little dogs have a big clown personality. They combine the outgoing and sweet personality of the Cocker Spaniel with the good humor and low shedding of the Poodle.
Other names for Cockapoo are:
- Cock-a-poo
- Cockapoodle
- Spoodle
- Cockerpoo
Vital Stats About Cockapoo
Let’s have a look at some important stats of Cock-a-poo:
| Stats | Description |
| Dog Breed Group | Mixed breed |
| Purpose | Companionship |
| Temperament | Sweet, Outgoing, Friendly, Acting, Loving |
| Average Height | From under 10 to over 15 inches tall at the shoulder |
| Weight Range | From under 6 to over 19 pounds |
| Energy level | Moderate |
| Ancestry | Poodle, Cocker Spaniel |
| Grooming needs | Moderate to high |
| Life Span | Approx 12 to 15 years |
Size of Cockapoo
There are four varieties of Cockapoos: standard, miniature, toy, and teacup.
You can have your pet in any size that fits your lifestyle.
- Standard Cockapoos
- Average height: at least 15 inches
- Average weight: more than 19 pounds
- Miniature Cockapoos
- Average height: 11 and 14 inches
- Average weight: 13 to 18 pounds
- Toy Cockapoos
- Average height: can reach 10 inches
- Average weight: under 12 pounds
- Teacup Cockapoos
- Average height: less than 10 inches
- Average weight: under 6 pounds
Cockapoo Breed Characteristics
We have listed below Cockapoo Breed characteristics. This is a general guideline for Cockapoos.
Adaptability:
Cockapoos are sensitive dogs and have good adaptability to many environments.
- They can adapt well to apartment living.
- This sweet dog makes good pets for first time parents.
- Cockapoos are sensitive dogs. They become overwhelmed by chaotic situations and loud noises.
- They have a moderate tolerance for being left alone.
- Cockapoos have a good tolerance for hot and cold weather.
Friendliness:
Cockapoos are friendly and cheerful dogs.
- Cockapoos are affectionate dogs and they love the company of their human.
- They are kid friendly dogs. For families they are excellent with young children.
- Cockapoo is a dog friendly breed. They usually gets along well with other pets in your house.
- These dogs are not aggressive towards strangers. They will always greet your guests happily with wagging tails.
Trainability:
Cockapoos are smart and easy to train dogs.
- Cockapoos are intelligent and easy to train dogs. They can quickly learn new commands. You need less effort to train your Cockapoo puppy.
- They have a moderate prey drive. They generally won’t chase passing animals.
- Cockapoos have a low barking potential.
- They are not mouthy dogs. Cockapoos don’t bite or nip at people or other things.
- They have a moderate desire for exploring the world.
Physical needs:
Cockapoos are playful dogs. They have moderate energy levels.
- They are playful dogs. You can encourage their playful nature through games like fetch, agility, and flyball.
- Cockapoos have a moderate energy level. They need regular daily activity and mental stimulation.
Brief History of Cockapoo
Cockapoos are among the old hybrid breed. This crossbreed became more popular over the last decades.
- They were first developed in the USA in the 1960s.
- Being hybrid dogs, they are not recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC).
- In 1999, Mary D. Foley founded the Cockapoo Club of America.
- In 2004, the American Cockapoo Club was founded.
- The North American Cockapoo Registry was formed in 1999. It provides certification for Cockapoos that results from 1st through 6th generation breedings.
Temperament and Personality of Cockapoo
Cockapoos are hybrid dogs with a sweet and friendly temperament. They get their personality traits from Cocker Spaniel and Poodle. They thrive when around their human companions.
- Loyal: Cockapoo is very loyal to their family. No matter what happens in your life, this amazing dog will remain by your side.
- Affectionate: The cockapoo is a friendly and affectionate dog. They make great companions for kids and other pets.
- Playful: Cockapoos are playful, lively, and full of energy. They enjoy playing with their owners.
- Intelligent: Cockapoos are very intelligent dogs with good memory. These little clowns can easily understand your commands.
Your dog’s upbringing has a major role in its personality. The Cockapoo’s temperament can vary due to genetic contribution of each parent.
Like all dogs, Cockapoos need early socialization. They need exposure to different people, animals, sights, sounds, and places.
How to Take Care of Cockapoo
Taking care of your Cockapoo involves a lot of things. This includes feeding, grooming, training, and exercises.
Feeding your Cockapoo
If you want your pup to be healthy and full of energy, it is important to feed it properly.
- Your Cockapoos diet should be healthy and include all nutrients.
- The food should be appropriate for your Cockapoo’s age, gender, and activity level.
- Try to keep a regular feeding schedule for your dog.
- Always offer a proper amount of food, suitable for your dog’s size and age.
- Clean fresh water should be available to your Cockapoo at all times.
Training your Cockapoo
Cockapoos are intelligent dogs, just like their parents. Early socialization and training is important for your pet. It directs your Cockapoo’s energy in a positive way.
Here are some tips for Cockapoo training:
- These dogs respond well to positive reinforcement training. Try to make it a positive experience, filled with praise and treats.
- Keep training sessions short, sweet, and varied. In this way, your dog won’t get bored.
- Be consistent with the rules you are setting for your pet.
How to groom a Cockapoo
The grooming requirements of Cockapoos vary depending on their coat. These dogs are fairly easy to groom.
Let’s take a look at their grooming needs:
- Brushing: Cockapoos need regular brushing. This will keep their coat smooth. Brushing removes dead fur and avoid mats or tangles.
- Bathing: Cockapoos just need a few baths in a year, only when needed. Always use pH balanced dog shampoo and conditioner.
- Ear cleaning: Your dog’s ears should smell good with no unusual amount of wax. Their floppy ears can easily become moist and infected.
- Teeth cleaning: Brush your Cockapoos teeth at least two or three times a week. This will prevent tartar buildup and bacteria.
- Nail trimming: Trim your dog’s nails every few weeks. It helps to avoid splitting and discomfort.
- Eye cleaning: Their eyes should be clear with no discharge or redness.
Regular grooming of your Cockapoo will help you detect potential health problems early.
Exercise requirements of Cockapoo
Cockapoos thrive on regular physical and mental stimulation. They need at least 20-30 minutes of daily exercise to stay healthy.
Exercising your Cockapoo should not be a burden for you or your dog. You can meet your Cockapoos’s exercise requirements by:
- Daily walks
- Fetch games
- Play with other dogs
- Playing with interactive and puzzle toys
- Play tug of war
- Hide-and-seek
- Hiking
- Giving your Cockapoo a safe area to play and run.
Are Cockapoos hypoallergenic
Cockapoos do not shed a lot and are sometimes promoted as being hypoallergenic. Remember that no dog breed is 100% hypoallergenic. Cockapoos are less likely to trigger your allergies.
If you are a neatnik, cockapoo is the right breed for you. Cockapoos have a very low drooling tendency. If you dislike slobber spots on your clothes, Cockapoos are an ideal choice.
Pet parent tip: If you have a known allergy to dogs, it’s best to talk to your doctor before getting a Cockapoo.
How long do Cockapoos live
Cockapoos have a life span of around 12 to 15 years.
They can lead a healthy life with proper care and exercise. Regular vet checkups are also important to help Cockapoos hit their life expectancy.
What Health Problems Do Cockapoos Have?
Cockapoos are prone to many genetic health conditions. These health problems are:
- Cataract: A cataract is an opacity on the lens of a dog’s eye and causes difficulty in seeing. Cataracts can be genetic or may result from some disease or old age. Your dog’s eyes may look cloudy or bluish grey.
- Patellar Luxation: Luxating Patellas is a degenerative problem in Cockapoos. It is due to the looseness of the kneecap. When the kneecap slips, it causes acute pain, lameness in the leg, or an abnormal gait.
- Allergies: Cockapoos are prone to a variety of allergies. These designer dogs may be allergic to pollens, molds, certain foods, flea, and saliva.
- Hip Dysplasia: This is a degenerative condition caused by deformity of the hip. Dogs with hip dysplasia show pain, lameness, and limping on one or both rear legs.
- Ear infections: Ear infections are a common and recurrent issue in Cockapoos. The symptoms include redness, itchiness, swelling, foul smell. You might see buildup of a waxy substance.
Final thoughts
Cockapoos are a combo of all the best characteristics of Cocker Spaniels and Poodles. They crave human companionship and make a wonderful lapdog. These energetic designer dogs love to run around and play.
A Cockapoo makes every day of your life a celebration! You will never feel bored with your hybrid friend.
Thank you the great information on Cockapoos. I have one and she is everything you described and more. I was not a dog person, however, since I got her I couldn’t imagine life without her. Thank you.