Cockapoo puppies are a delightful mix of two beloved dog breeds: Cocker Spaniels and Poodles. Cockapoo puppies, also known as Cockerpoos, Cockadoodles, or Cockapoodles, are among the most prized and popular designer dog breeds.
When it comes to designer dog breeds, few can match the timelessness and adorability of Cockapoos. These loving and sweet-natured companions have been popular with families for decades. With their friendly and intelligent temperament, Cockapoos offers everything you could desire in a family pet. Cockapoos’ adorable teddy bear looks and fluffy coats are undeniably charming. However, beneath that sweet exterior lies a bundle of energy and curiosity. To ensure a harmonious and well-behaved companion, proper training is essential.
Cockapoo Overview
| Official Name | Cockapoo |
| Other Names | Cockerpoo, Cockadoodle, and Cockapoodle |
| Breed Group | Hybrid |
| Origin | United States |
| Height | 10 to inches |
| Weight | 6 to 19 pounds |
| Lifespan | 12 to 15 years |
| Size | Small |
| Good With | Cats, Children, Dogs, Families, |
| Temperament | Friendly, Outgoing, Playful |
| Coat Color | Red, Cream, Blue, Brown, Chocolate, Black, White, Gold |
| Energy level | Active |
| Exercise Requirements | 15 to 20 minutes/day |
| Grooming Needs | Moderate to high |
| Patterns | Bicolor, Merla, Tricolor |
| AKC Classification | Not recognized |
| UKC Classification | Not recognized |
| Other Traits | Apartment-Friendly, easy to train, good for first-time pet owners, hot weather tolerant, loves water, strong loyalty tendencies |
Cockapoo Origin
The term “designer dog” may have been coined in the late 1980s, but the concept of mixed-breed dogs with two purebred parents has existed for much longer. Centuries ago, these dogs were called “mutts,” lacking the recognition they deserved. The beloved Cockapoo, a popular designer dog, shares a similar history. While the breed’s origin remains unclear, the intentional breeding of Cocker Spaniels and Poodles to create Cockapoos predates the designer dog craze. It’s safe to say that the Cockapoo was ahead of its time.
In the late 1950s, the Cockapoo as we know it today emerged in the United States. Initially, it resulted from an accidental mating between a Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle. Still, it took a little while for breeders and enthusiasts to recognize the potential of this crossbreed.
The Cockapoo Club of America, established in 1999, aims to create breeding consistency by promoting the pairing of multigenerational Cockapoos. This practice is believed to help maintain desired qualities that may only be seen in some first-generation dogs. On the other hand, the American Cockapoo Club, formed in 2004, abstains from mixing generations and avoids breeding Cockapoos back to Poodles or Cocker Spaniels. Their focus is on maintaining the breed’s original roots of AKC/CKC Cocker Spaniels and Poodles.
Cockapoo Puppies Personality
The Cockapoo is an intelligent and eager-to-please companion dog. With a friendly and outgoing nature, they get along well with everyone. They possess the intelligence of Poodles and the sweet disposition of Cocker Spaniels. Early socialization is important for their well-rounded development. They thrive on being with their family and may experience separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods. Training can be easy with positive reinforcement, and they can achieve high levels of obedience with time and patience.
Grooming For Cockapoo Puppies
Grooming is vital in keeping your Cockapoo puppy healthy and looking its best. Here are some essential grooming tips to follow:
Brushing
Cockapoos have a curly or wavy coat that tends to mat and tangle. Regular brushing is crucial to prevent mats and keep their coat free from debris. Use a slicker brush or a comb with wide teeth to remove tangles and knots gently. Aim to brush your Cockapoo at least two to three times a week.
Cockapoo Puppies Bathing
Cockapoos generally require a bath every four to six weeks, but the frequency may vary based on their activity level and coat condition. Use a mild dog shampoo and warm water to bathe your Cockapoo. Thoroughly rinse their coat to remove any shampoo residue. Be cautious not to over-bathe them, as it can strip their coat of natural oils.
Cockapoo Puppies Coat Trimming
Cockapoos may need regular coat trims to maintain a neat and manageable length. Consider taking them to a professional groomer familiar with the breed’s grooming requirements. They can help shape their coat and trim it as needed.
Ear Cleaning
Cockapoos are prone to ear infections, so keeping their ears clean and dry is important. Gently inspect their ears and clean them with a veterinarian-recommended ear-cleaning solution. Avoid inserting anything deep into their ear canal to prevent injury.
Eye And Facial Care
Monitor your Cockapoo’s eyes for any signs of redness, discharge, or irritation. Keep the area around their eyes clean and free from tear stains by gently wiping them with a damp cloth. Regularly check for any signs of redness, discharge, or irritation and consult a veterinarian if needed.
Dental Hygiene
Dental care is essential for Cockapoos’ oral health. Brush their teeth regularly using a dog-specific toothbrush and toothpaste. Dental treats or toys can also help promote good dental hygiene.
Cockapoo Puppies Nail Trimming
- Trim your Cockapoo puppy’s nails regularly to keep them at a comfortable length.
- Use a dog nail clipper designed for their size, and be careful not to cut too close to the quick, which can cause bleeding.
- If you are unsure or uncomfortable with nail trimming, seek assistance from a professional groomer or veterinarian.
Following these grooming tips can help your Cockapoo puppy maintain a healthy and well-groomed appearance. Regular grooming keeps their coat looking beautiful and contributes to their overall health and well-being.
There Are 4 Different Sizes Of Cockapoo
Cockapoos come in various sizes, each with its characteristics. Here are the different types of Cockapoos based on size:
- Teacup Cockapoo: This small dog breed is known to fit in a teacup. Fully grown Teacup Cockapoos reach a height of 9 inches and weigh around 5.5 pounds.
- Toy Cockapoo: A Toy Cockapoo results from mixing a toy poodle with a cocker spaniel. They reach a height of approximately 10 inches and weigh around 12 pounds. Toy Cockapoos are stronger and sturdier compared to the Teacup variety.
- Miniature Cockapoo: The Miniature Cockapoo is a cross between a miniature poodle and a cocker spaniel. They weigh around 15 to 18 pounds and reach a maximum height of 12 to 14 inches.
- Maxi Cockapoo or Standard Cockapoo: The Maxi Cockapoo is the largest. It is a crossbreed of an American cocker spaniel and a standard poodle. Maxi Cockapoos reach a height of 15 to 18 inches and weigh around 20 pounds. They are less well-suited for apartment living compared to the smaller Cockapoo types.
These different sizes offer options for individuals looking to adopt a Cockapoo, allowing them to choose a size that fits their lifestyle and living situation.
Are Cockapoo Puppies Easy To Train?
Cockapoos are a crossbreed of Poodles and Cocker Spaniels, two breeds known for their intelligence. This intelligence translates to Cockapoos being highly trainable and quick learners. With positive reinforcement and reward-based training methods, you can easily housetrain, leash train, potty train, and achieve excellent recall with your Cockapoo. Their intelligence and willingness to please make them a joy to train, and with consistency and patience, you’ll see great results in no time at all.
In this 8-week guide to training your Cockapoo puppy, we will cover a range of important subjects:
- Sitting: Teach your puppy to sit on command, a foundational obedience skill.
- Lying Down: Train your puppy to lie down on cue, another essential command for obedience.
- Learning Their Name: Help your puppy recognize and respond to their name for effective communication.
- Coming When Called: Teach your puppy to come to you when called, ensuring a reliable recall.
- Walking Nicely on a Lead: Train your puppy to walk calmly on a leash without pulling.
- Playing Fetch: Engage in interactive play and teach your puppy to retrieve and bring back toys.
- Sleeping in Their Crate: Help your puppy establish a positive association with their crate for peaceful sleep.
- Coping with Being Left Alone: Gradually acclimate your puppy to being alone, preventing separation anxiety.
- Going to the Toilet in the Right Place: Establish a consistent potty training routine and teach your puppy where to eliminate.
How Much Exercise Do Cockapoos Need?
Cockapoo puppies are energetic and require a moderate level of exercise. If you lead a sedentary lifestyle, there may be better choices than a Cockapoo. These dogs benefit from a daily walk of at least 30 minutes or engaging in small games that involve physical activity. Regular exercise is important for Cockapoo puppies to prevent obesity. While they can adapt well to apartment living, opting for a toy or miniature Cockapoo in such cases is recommended.
It is crucial to provide them with companionship and keep them as part of the family indoors. You can ensure a happy and healthy life for your Cockapoo puppy by providing regular exercise, appropriate living arrangements, and companionship.
Are Cockapoos Good With Children And Other Pets?
Yes, Cockapoos are highly regarded as family pets. They have a loving and friendly nature, making them excellent companions for individuals and families. Cockapoos are known for their affectionate and gentle demeanor and thrive on being part of a loving family environment. Whether snuggling up on the couch, going for walks, or playing with children, Cockapoos enjoys spending quality time with their human family members. Indeed, Cockapoos are highly adaptable and sociable, making them delightful additions to any household. They are often cherished as beloved family pets.
Cockapoo Health Issue
While not all Cockapoos will develop these diseases, it’s important to be aware of potential health issues associated with the breed:
- Cataracts: Cataracts cause cloudiness on the eye’s lens, leading to impaired vision. Surgical removal may be an option to improve vision.
- Patellar Luxation: Also known as slipped stifles, this condition involves the kneecap sliding in and out of place, causing discomfort and sometimes requiring medical intervention.
- Hip Dysplasia: In this inherited condition, the thighbone doesn’t fit properly into the hip joint. It can lead to pain and lameness, and screening through X-rays can help diagnose the problem.
- Allergies: Cockapoos, like many other dogs, can experience different types of allergies, including food allergies, contact allergies, and inhalant allergies. Treatment may involve dietary changes, medication, and environmental modifications.
- Liver Disease: Some forms of liver disease, such as chronic active hepatitis and copper toxicosis, have been observed in Cocker Spaniels, which can potentially affect Cockapoos as well. More research is needed to determine the genetic factors involved.
- Ear Infections: Due to their floppy Cocker Spaniel ears, Cockapoos may be more prone to ear infections. Regular ear cleaning and care are essential to prevent these issues.
Cockapoo Rescue Groups
Rescue groups can be a valuable resource for those interested in adopting a Cockapoo. These groups specialize in rescuing and rehoming Cockapoos needing adoption or foster care. Here are a couple of rescue groups that focus on Cockapoos:
- Poo-Mix Rescue: Poo-Mix Rescue is an organization dedicated to rescuing and finding homes for mixed-breed dogs, including Cockapoos. They have a network of foster homes across the United States and work to match Cockapoos with suitable adoptive families.
- American Cockapoo Club: The American Cockapoo Club is not a rescue group but can provide valuable information and resources for those looking to adopt a Cockapoo. They have a directory of reputable breeders who may have Cockapoos available for adoption or know of rescue organizations specializing in Cockapoos.
Cockapoo Puppies Cost
Cockapoo puppies typically have an average price of around $2000. However, the price of a Cockapoo can vary depending on factors such as the breeder, the size of the dog, and its purpose as a companion, champion, or show dog. Considering these factors, Cockapoo prices can range from $1500 to $3000. It’s important to do thorough research and choose a reputable breeder when considering the purchase of a Cockapoo puppy to ensure you are getting a healthy and well-cared-for dog.
Conclusion
Cockapoo puppies are adorable and popular designer dogs. They make excellent family pets and companions, adapting well to different living environments. Proper grooming, training, and attention to their specific needs are essential for their well-being. While Cockapoos generally have good health, it’s important to be aware of potential genetic health issues. Adopting a rescue group is a compassionate option. Overall, Cockapoos bring joy and companionship to their owners, making them cherished family members.
FAQs
- How big do Cockapoo puppies get?
The size of Cockapoo puppies can vary depending on the parent breeds and individual genetics. Teacup Cockapoos are the smallest, reaching around 9 inches in height and weighing around 5.5 pounds. Toy Cockapoos are slightly larger, reaching about 10 inches in height and weighing around 12 pounds. Miniature Cockapoos can grow 12 to 14 inches tall and weigh between 15 to 18 pounds. Maxi or Standard Cockapoos are the largest, reaching 15-18 inches in height and weighing around 20 pounds. - Are Cockapoos hypoallergenic?
Yes, Cockapoos are often considered hypoallergenic. Their low-shedding coats produce less dander, making them suitable for individuals with allergies. However, it is advisable for individuals to spend time with a Cockapoo before making a final decision, as everyone’s reactions to allergens can differ. - How long do Cockapoos live?
On average, Cockapoos have a lifespan of around 12 to 15 years. With proper care, a healthy diet, regular exercise, and routine veterinary check-ups, Cockapoos can live long and fulfilling lives.
READ NEXT: Mini Bernedoodle Guide: Everything You Need To Know In 2023