As one of the favorite designer breeds across the United States, the Cockapoo has most certainly stolen hearts everywhere. This Cocker Spaniel Poodle mix possesses all the best traits from both breeds. But what is it that makes these cockapoo dogs special, and will they be a good addition to your family?
The cockapoo is a poodle hybrid that was developed back in the sixties and it is one of the earliest hybrids bred through intentional cross breeding. The aim of this designer dog was to have a loving pet that was intelligent, affectionate, and low shedding. With time, they have become one of the top 10 most sought out breeds in the United States.
“A Cockapoo doesn’t just enter your life – they wiggle their way into your heart with wet noses and wagging tails.”
In this guide, we will cover:
- Cockapoo character and temperament
- Three size variations and coat types
- The grooming and health care requirements
- Trainings tips for these clever hybrids
- Finding a seller: reputable breeder
History of Breed and Its Origins
The Story Behind Cockapoo Breed
In the 1960s, America saw the emergence of the ‘cockapoo’, the crossbreed between Cocker Spaniels and Poodles. It was designed to ensure that it has:
- A friendly and loving temperament owing to Cocker Spaniel lineage.
- Exceptional intelligence along with a low-shedding coat from the Poodle.
- Possesses a moderately versatile size to fit into different types of homes.
In contrast to other modern designer breeds, the Cockapoo was not developed out of greed but to strive for the ideal companion dog. Early breeders prioritized health and personality over aesthetic standards.
What Each Parent Breed Contributes
Cocker Spaniel Traits:
- A loving, warm and friendly disposition
- Gentle towards youngsters
- Moderate energy levels
Poodle Traits:
- Low-shedding, hypoallergenic coat
- Highly intelligent
- Athletics and athletic stamina
Sustained popularity of cockapoo dogs for decades after their invention can be easily understood by this combination.
Sizes of Cockapoos
A factor of great interest within this straining is how its different sizes can accommodate various lifestyles:
Toy Cockapoo
- Height: 10-to-12 inches
- Weight: 6-to-12 pounds
- Best suited for: Seniors, apartment residents
Miniature Cockapoo
- Height: 13-to-15 inches
- Weight: 13-to-18 pounds
- Best suited for: Most families, pet novices
Standard Cockapoo
- Height: 15 inches or taller
- Weight: 19 pounds or more
- Best suited for: Experienced owners and active families
Tip: Always confirm with the breeder for size estimation based on the parent’s sizes, as there is variability in estimating size.
Cockapoo Temperament And Personality
Cockapoo dogs are unique in so many ways, but their exceptional attributes stem from their character. Let us analyze cockapoo characters more closely.
Signature Personality Traits
- People-Oriented: Forms strong bonds, follows family everywhere
- Playful: Maintains puppy-like enthusiasm into adulthood
- Adaptable: Adapts on the move, whether in an apartment or a house
- Intelligent: Smart pooches who shine in obedience
- Gentle: Exceptional with children when socialized
Potential Behavioral Issues
Features that cockapoo poodle owners find particularly appealing may backfire and cause behavioral problems such as:
- Developing separation anxiety if left alone too often
- Barking excessively if not properly trained
- Sleigh pulling caused by spaniel hunting instinct
A quotation by celebrity dog trainer, Joe O’Connell, provides the perfect summary:
“Training a Cockapoo is like teaching a straight A student – they learn quickly but always try to outwit their teacher!”
Types and colors of cockapoo coats
There are 3 types of cockapoo coats and a variety of colors. Let’s go through these:
Types of Cockapoo Fur Textures
Curly (Poodle-Dominant):
- Tight corkscrew curls
- Doesn’t shed much
- Professional grooming required
Wavy (Balanced Mix):
- Loose waves
- Moderate shedding
- More easily maintained at home
Straight (Spaniel-Dominant):
- Silky, flat fur
- Sheds frequently
- Rarely seen in cockapoos
Color Palette
- Solid: Black, cream, red, chocolate
- Merle: Patterned coat considered controversial
Grooming Tip: Use preventative brushing techniques early to avoid tangles in curly coat types.
Health And Lifespan Considerations
To have a pet, taking care of their health is necessary. Here are the few health problems and average lifespan of a cockapoo dog.
A Dog’s Common Health Problems
Luxating Patellas (20% occurrence)
- Dislocation of the kneecap
- Requires management through weight control.
Ear infections
- Typical for dogs with floppy ears
- Can be fixed through weekly cleaning.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy
- Due to the hereditary nature of the disease, it is tested by reputable breeders.
Wellness and lifespan
Average lifespan of cockapoo 12-15 years
Recommended tests for health:
- OFA hips
- CERF eye exam
- DNA analysis for PRA
Care: Regular vet visits are critical to early detection.
Training Your Cockapoo
Most Effective Training Tips
To ensure proper and effective training of cockapoo, therapy and positive rewards work best.
Offer Rewards
- Treat Rewards
- Praise and Affection
Early Socialization
- Other than people, pets should also be introduced so as to ensure proper acclimatization with other animals.
- Ensured Consistency with Rules:
Set and Enforced Boundaries.
- Formally defined boundaries.
- Designate Command Sessions:
Skill Development Timetable
Provide designated procedures for executing commands.
- In the range of 8-12 weeks: Basic command steps such as sit, stay, etc. are to be mastered.
- 3-6 months: Walking with a leash should be mastered.
- 6+ : Sophisticated tricks should be mastered.
Training Tip: Achieve success by ensuring the training sessions are of short duration (5-10 minutes).
How to Locate a Responsible Cockapoo Breeder
Red Flags to Avoid
- No documentation of health testing
- Having a cancellation policy requiring a fee and perpetually listing new litters are conflicting as these puppies are always ‘ready to go.’
- Refusal to permit viewer access to the breeding premises.
What to Ask the Breeders
- May I see the parents of the puppy?
- What are the required health certifications you guarantee?
- How are you puppy-proof?
Other Options
Look for breed-specific rescues for mature cockapoo dogs looking for homes.
Is a Cockapoo Right for You?
Best Suitable for Cockapoo Owners
- Families with kids
- Allergy patients
- Renters
- Novice pet owners
Less Suitable For
- Travelers
- Constable of household security
- Non-frequent groomers
Final Thoughts
The Cockapoo is an amazing blend of Cocker Poodle and Cocker Spaniel and they never fail to impress as a family pet – affectionate, through and through. Though every dog comes with responsibility, these joyful hybrids provide one of the best experiences of pet ownership.
“Every bit of my life becomes easy and fun with a Cockapoo making the day bright and full of energy to be loved and cherished.”
To learn more: visit Biakwe