The Cockapoo is a cross between the Poodle and Cocker Spaniel breeds. A small dog with the personality of a big clown, the Cockapoo dog is perhaps the first of the “designer dogs” (not a purebred dog breed), dating back to the 1960s rather than just a few years ago. Thanks to their curly or wavy coats and big eyes, they often look like teddy bears. Cockapoos have the friendly temperament of the Cocker Spaniel and the hypoallergenic coat of the Poodle. Depending on the Poodle parent, they come in various sizes and exhibit multiple coat colors and textures. While brown and cream are the most common, merle, blue, and black Cockapoos are rarer.
Known for their playful and sociable demeanor, Cockapoos make excellent family pets and get along well with children and other animals. They are generally adaptable to various living situations, whether in apartments or houses with yards. They require regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. Due to their low-shedding coats, Cockapoos are often considered a good choice for individuals with allergies. Additionally, their friendly disposition and eagerness to please make them easily trainable, even for first-time dog owners.
Cockapoo characteristics
- Height: 10 to over 15 inches tall at the shoulder
- Weight: 6 to over 19 pounds
- Lifespan: 12 to 15 years
Coat and color variations
The Cockapoo, a cross between a Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle, boasts a variety of coat types and colors that reflect its diverse parentage. Their coats can range from straight (resembling the Cocker Spaniel), to wavy (a mix of both parents), to curly (similar to the Poodle). Wavy and curly coats are the most common and are often preferred for their low-shedding and allergy-friendly properties. However, coat texture and shedding levels can vary depending on the individual dog’s genetics. Regardless of type, Cockapoo coats are soft and require regular grooming to prevent tangles and matting, especially for those with curlier fur.
Cockapoos come in a wide array of colors, making each dog unique. Common coat colors include cream, apricot, gold, red, chocolate, black, and silver. Additionally, Cockapoos can display patterns such as parti-color (white with patches of another color), phantom (a darker base coat with lighter markings on the face, legs, and chest), and merle (a mottled mix of colors, often with blue or light patches). Their coats may also lighten or change slightly as they mature, a trait inherited from their Poodle lineage. With such a wide variety of coat types and colors, Cockapoos offer something for every family’s aesthetic preference.
Physical features and appearance
Cockapoo sizes:
- Toy Cockapoo: Under 10 inches tall, 6–12 pounds.
- Miniature Cockapoo: 11–14 inches tall, 13–18 pounds.
- Standard Cockapoo: 15+ inches tall, 19–25 pounds.
Coat types and colors
- Straight (Cocker-like), wavy (soft and loose), or curly (Poodle-like).
- Solid colors: Cream, apricot, gold, red, chocolate, black, and silver.
- Patterns: Parti-color, phantom, merle, and multi-colored variations.
Build:
- Compact and sturdy, with a balanced, athletic frame.
- Round, expressive eyes that are dark brown or hazel.
- Medium-length muzzle with a black or liver-colored nose, depending on coat color.
Other physical features:
- Long, floppy ears covered in soft, feathered fur.
- Medium-length, often carried with a gentle wag.
Is the Cockapoo hypoallergenic?
The Cockapoo is often considered a good option for allergy sufferers, but it is not guaranteed to be fully hypoallergenic. Because Cockapoos are a cross between a Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle, their coat type can vary significantly depending on the individual dog’s genetics. Poodles are known for their hypoallergenic, low-shedding coats, while Cocker Spaniels tend to shed more and produce dander, which can trigger allergies. Cockapoos that inherit the curly or wavy coat of the Poodle are more likely to shed less and produce less dander, making them more suitable for people with allergies.
However, no dog is completely hypoallergenic, as allergens are primarily found in a dog’s saliva, skin cells (dander), and urine, not just their fur. Allergy sensitivity can also vary among individuals, so spending time with a Cockapoo before bringing one home is recommended to assess your reaction. Regular grooming, including brushing and bathing, can help reduce environmental allergens, especially for those with mild sensitivities. If allergy concerns are a priority, it’s best to work with a reputable breeder who can help identify Cockapoos with more Poodle-like coats.
Cockapoo temperament
Cockapoos are renowned for their affectionate, friendly, and playful temperament, making them a popular choice for families, singles, and seniors alike. As a cross between the loving Cocker Spaniel and the intelligent Poodle, Cockapoos are highly sociable dogs that thrive on human interaction and companionship. They are gentle and patient and love being part of family activities, whether it’s playing in the yard, going for walks, or simply cuddling on the couch. Their cheerful demeanor and eager-to-please attitude also make them easy to train, as they respond well to positive reinforcement.
In addition to their loving nature, Cockapoos are known for their adaptable and outgoing personalities. They can adjust to various living situations, from apartments to larger homes, as long as they receive sufficient exercise and attention. Cockapoos have moderate energy levels and enjoy playtime, but they’re also content to relax and lounge with their owners. However, they do not like being left alone for extended periods and may develop separation anxiety or destructive behaviors if neglected.
Personality and behavior traits
- Affectionate: Loves to cuddle and be close to their owners; thrives on human interaction.
- Friendly: Sociable and welcoming toward family members, children, strangers, and other pets.
- Playful: Enjoys games, toys, and interactive play; great for active households.
- Intelligent: Quick learners who respond well to training, especially with positive reinforcement.
- Eager to Please: Highly motivated to make their owners happy, making training easy and enjoyable.
- Gentle: Patient and calm, particularly around children and smaller pets.
- Adaptable: Comfortable in apartments, houses, or city life as long as they get adequate attention and exercise.
- Moderate Energy Levels: Enjoys daily walks and play but can settle down and relax indoors.
- Prone to Separation Anxiety: Dislikes being left alone for long periods and may develop destructive habits if neglected.
- Cheerful and Outgoing: Always happy, friendly, and ready to brighten their owner’s day with their loving personality.
Training and socialization
Early socialization and positive reinforcement training are essential for Cavapoos, as their intelligence can sometimes be paired with a hint of stubbornness. Fortunately, their eagerness to please and quick learning ability make them highly receptive to training when started early. Using praise, treats, and affection to reward desired behaviors is the most effective approach. Thanks to their Cocker Spaniel lineage, Cavapoos thrive on positive reinforcement and are sensitive to tone, meaning harsh corrections may cause them to become discouraged or withdrawn. A gentle, encouraging training style will keep them motivated, engaged, and eager to learn.
Training tips:
- Be Consistent: Consistency is crucial in training. Use the same commands and routines to avoid confusion. This helps your Cavapoo understand what is expected of them.
- Keep Training Sessions Short and Fun: Cavalier Poodle mixes are intelligent but can lose interest if training sessions are too long or repetitive. Keep sessions short (10-15 minutes) and engage with varied activities.
- Mental Stimulation: Incorporate puzzle toys, obedience training, and interactive games into their routine to challenge their mind. A bored Cavapoo can become restless or depressed. Once basic obedience is established, teach more advanced commands or tricks.
Cockapoo care
Cockapoos require regular care and grooming to keep their coats healthy and tangle-free, especially since their fur can range from wavy to curly. Their coats tend to mat easily, so brushing at least 3–4 times a week is essential, with daily brushing recommended for curlier coats. Regular grooming appointments every 6–8 weeks help maintain their coat length, cleanliness, and overall appearance. In addition to coat care, Cockapoos need their ears cleaned regularly to prevent infections, as their floppy ears can trap moisture and debris. Routine nail trimming, dental care, and occasional baths are also important to keep them healthy and comfortable.
How to groom a Cockapoo
- Brushing: Use a slicker brush or metal comb to remove tangles and prevent matting, focusing on areas prone to knots, like the chest, legs, and behind the ears.
- Bathing: Bathe your Cockapoo every 4–6 weeks using a gentle, dog-safe shampoo to keep the coat clean and soft.
- Trim the coat: Schedule professional grooming every 6–8 weeks for a trim to maintain a manageable coat length, or use grooming scissors and clippers for at-home maintenance.
- Clean the ears: Wipe the ears weekly with a vet-approved ear cleaner to prevent wax buildup and infections.
- Trim the nails: Clip the nails every 3–4 weeks to avoid overgrowth, which can cause discomfort.
- Brush the teeth: Brush your Cockapoo’s teeth 2–3 times a week to promote dental health and prevent tartar buildup. Never use toothpaste intended for humans!
How much exercise does a Cockapoo need?
A Cockapoo generally requires 30 to 60 minutes of exercise per day, depending on their age, size, and energy level. This exercise can be broken up into a couple of sessions throughout the day, such as a walk in the morning and playtime in the evening. Cockapoos are active and playful dogs, so regular physical activity is important to keep them happy and healthy.
Feeding and nutrition
Cockapoos thrive on a balanced and high-quality diet that supports their energy levels, growth, and overall health. As active and playful dogs, they require a mix of protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals to maintain their well-being. Protein sources, such as chicken, turkey, fish, or beef, are essential for muscle development, while omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids help promote a healthy coat and skin. Carbohydrates, such as brown rice, sweet potatoes, or oats, provide sustained energy.
Cockapoos are prone to weight gain if overfed, so portion control and monitoring calorie intake are important. Always ensure fresh water is available, and consider feeding them in smaller, measured meals to avoid overeating.
Feeding guidelines for the Cockapoo
Portion sizes depend on the size and activity level of your Cockapoo. Here’s a simple breakdown:
Toy Cockapoo (6–12 lbs):
- Portion Size: 1/2 to 3/4 cup of high-quality dry food per day.
- Feeding Frequency: Split into 2 meals (morning and evening).
Miniature Cockapoo (13–18 lbs):
- Portion Size: 3/4 to 1 cup of high-quality dry food per day.
- Feeding Frequency: Split into 2 meals.
Standard Cockapoo (19–25 lbs):
- Portion Size: 1 to 1.5 cups of high-quality dry food per day.
- Feeding Frequency: Split into 2 meals.
Cockapoo health
Hybrid vigor is worth understanding if you’re looking for a Cockapoo. Hybrid vigor isn’t necessarily characteristic of mixed breeds; it occurs when new blood is brought in from outside the usual breeding circle — the opposite of inbreeding. However, a general misconception is that hybrid vigor automatically applies to mixed breeds. If the genetic pool for the mixed breed remains the same over time, the offspring won’t have hybrid vigor. And if a purebred breeder brings in a dog from an unrelated line, those puppies will have hybrid vigor, even though they’re purebred. Not all Cockapoos will get any or all of these diseases, but it’s important to be aware of them if you’re considering this breed.
- Cataracts: Cataracts cause opacity on the eye’s lens, resulting in poor vision. The dog’s eye(s) will have a cloudy appearance. Cataracts usually occur in old age and sometimes can be surgically removed to improve vision.
- Patellar Luxation: Also known as slipped stifles, this is a common problem in small dogs. The patella is the kneecap. Luxation means dislocation of an anatomical part (as a bone at a joint). Patellar luxation is when the knee joint (often of a hind leg) slides in and out of place, causing pain. This can be crippling, although many dogs lead relatively normal lives with this condition.
- Hip Dysplasia: This is an inherited condition in which the thighbone doesn’t fit snugly into the hip joint. Some dogs show pain and lameness on one or both rear legs, but others don’t display outward signs of discomfort. (X-ray screening is the most certain way to diagnose the problem.) Either way, arthritis can develop as the dog ages. Dogs with hip dysplasia should not be bred — so if you’re buying a puppy, ask the breeder for proof that the parents have been tested for hip dysplasia and are free of problems.
- Allergies: Allergies are common in dogs, and the Cockapoo is no exception. There are three main types of allergies: food allergies, which are treated by eliminating certain foods from the dog’s diet; contact allergies, which are caused by a reaction to a topical substance such as bedding, flea powders, dog shampoos, and other chemicals; and inhalant allergies, which are caused by airborne allergens such as pollen, dust, and mildew. Treatment varies according to the cause and may include dietary restrictions, medications, and environmental changes.
- Liver Disease: This condition is becoming more prevalent in Cocker Spaniels in two forms: chronic active hepatitis and copper toxicosis (poisoning). Both conditions may or may not be genetic; no one is certain at this point. More research is needed, but meanwhile, ask your Cockapoo breeder about the parent Cocker’s liver history.
- Ear Infections: These afflictions may plague the Cockapoo because of his floppy Cocker ears, which can trap moisture, dirt, and debris. The Cockapoo’s ears should be regularly checked and cleaned. Ask your veterinarian about appropriate ear care products.
Cockapoo rescue and adoption
Adopting a Cockapoo is a wonderful way to give a loving home to a dog in need while gaining a loyal, affectionate companion. Many Cockapoos end up in shelters or rescue organizations due to changes in their owners’ circumstances, not because of behavioral issues. By adopting, you’re providing a second chance to a dog that will reward you with endless love and joy. There are rescue groups specifically dedicated to Doodle breeds, including Cockapoos, Labradoodles, and Goldendoodles, as well as organizations that focus solely on Cockapoo rehoming. These rescues carefully assess each dog’s temperament and needs, helping match them with the perfect forever family. Adoption not only saves lives but also supports ethical practices, ensuring that every Cockapoo finds a happy, loving home.
How much are Cockapoo puppies?
The price of Cockapoo puppies can vary depending on factors such as breeder reputation, location, coat type, size, and lineage. On average, Cockapoo puppies cost between $2,000 and $3,500 when purchased from a reputable breeder. Puppies with highly desirable traits, such as rare coat colors, specific sizes (like Toy or Miniature Cockapoos), or multi-generational breeding, may be priced higher, sometimes reaching $4,000 or more. While it may be tempting, never purchase a Cockapoo from a breeder that offers cheaper puppies. This can be a red flag that the breeder may not be reputable and you could be contributing to inhumane breeding practices.
Adopting a Cockapoo from a rescue or shelter is a more affordable option, typically costing between $200 and $500, which often includes vaccinations, spaying or neutering, and microchipping. When considering a purchase, it’s important to ensure the breeder follows ethical practices, prioritizes the health of their dogs, and provides health clearances for genetic conditions. Avoid supporting puppy mills or untrustworthy sellers by researching thoroughly and visiting breeders in person whenever possible.
