Cockapoo Puppies

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Cockapoo: A Loveable Cross Between the Cocker Spaniel and Poodle

As far as designer and hybrid dogs go, the Cockapoo is certainly one of the most popular. This lovable mix is a cross between the Cocker Spaniel and the Poodle. The first Cockapoo appeared during the 1960s, which is earlier than most designer dogs. These social pups are known for their outgoing personalities and good-natured temperaments, and they make wonderful companions.


Cockapoo At a Glance

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Cockapoo At a Glance

  • Size: 10"-15", 10-30 lbs.
  • Lifespan: 13-16 years
  • Energy Level: medium
  • Coat: Long, soft, and curly
  • Shedding: light
  • Hypoallergenic: No
  • Dog Group: Non-Sporting
  • Common Nicknames: Cockerdoodle, Cockadoodle, Cockerpoo, Spoodle, CAP

Cockapoo Breed Guide

Learn More About Cockapoos

  • Temperament

    Cockapoos are sweet, loving, and people-oriented dogs that make wonderful companions. The Cockapoo is a friendly pup who loves meeting and being around people and other animals. Given their sociable nature, these dogs are prone to separation anxiety if left by themselves too often or for too long, so they're not a good fit for someone who is away from home frequently. Given the intelligence of the Poodle and the eagerness to please of the Cocker Spaniel, Cockapoos are obedient and easy to train. They respond best to positive reinforcement techniques like treats and praise. In terms of activity level, Cockapoos require a moderate amount of daily exercise. They're smart, so it's important to stimulate Cockapoos mentally, too, to keep them from getting bored. When given the attention and training they need, Cockapoos make excellent family companions.

  • Health

    Cockapoos are highly susceptible to dry skin and ear infections. This breed will need its ears cleaned and checked for signs of infection on a weekly basis. Anytime this dog gets wet, its ears will need to be thoroughly dried. Other issues owners should be aware of include eye issues, diabetes, skin disorders, hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, luxating patellas, epilepsy, heart disease, and Cushing's Syndrome.

  • Activity Level

    In terms of energy level, Cockapoos fall somewhere in the middle. They need a moderate amount of exercise every day, which could be a long walk, rigorous play session, or a romp in a fenced-in area. To prevent boredom, these smart pups require mental stimulation, too, in addition to their daily physical exercise.

  • Grooming

    This is a clean breed with no "dog smell" that only needs a bath when it has gotten dirty. Giving these dogs too many baths will dry out their coats and skin. The frequency of brushing and trims depends on the type of coat your Cockapoo has. Dogs with long, curly coats will need to be brushed daily to keep their coat tangle free and need to be trimmed about every 4-6 weeks. Regularly brush this breed's teeth and trim their nails on a monthly basis.

  • Shedding

    Cockapoos are very minimal shedders. This hypoallergenic breed won't get fur all over your house or trigger your allergies.

  • Appearance

    The Cockapoo is most commonly the result of breeding a Cocker Spaniel and a Miniature Poodle, so they are relatively small dogs. Their coats are long and curly, and also hypoallergenic. Cockapoos' fur can be a wide range of colors, but it is usually some shade of brown or fawn.

  • History

    In terms of designer dog breeds, the Cockapoo was one of the earliest to develop, and it first appeared during the 1960s. While the first hybrid of a Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle may have been accidental, it was certainly a fortunate mistake. The breed was well-received, and people began to intentionally breed Cockapoos. Over the years, breeders made efforts to establish a breed standard and make the Cockapoo a purebred dog, but the Cockapoo remains a hybrid breed today. However, the Cockapoo Club of America and several other Cockapoo clubs and organizations are still working to establish the Cockapoo as a purebred dog.