Cockapoo: Dog breed characteristics & care

👉 No dog breed is 100% hypoallergenic, but some are better than others for allergy sufferers.

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• Cockapoos are among the oldest  “designer dog” crosses, dating back to the 1960s.
• Cockapoos are low-shedding dogs and, while not truly hypoallergenic, are a good choice for owners with dander allergies.
• Due to a “fading gene” in poodles, it is possible that your cockapoo’s coat color will fade as they get older.

If you want a fun-loving dog that soaks up attention, a cockapoo is a great fit. These dogs are very intelligent and have moderate energy levels. While you don’t need to take them on your 5K run, they enjoy burning off energy. These sweet-natured pups get along well with young children and are not known for having issues with other pets. 

Cockapoos can be somewhat cautious around strangers, so they may bark when new visitors come over. To prevent your cockapoo from developing any aggressive behaviors, make sure to start socializing them while they are still puppies.

Being that cockapoos are a mix of poodles and cocker spaniels, your pet may experience some of the same health issues as their parent breeds. Cockapoos are generally long-lived so the overall health outlook is good. But, there are some common cockapoo health conditions to be aware of, including:

• Hip dysplasia. This is a genetic disease that impacts the hip, and can sometimes cause lameness though not in every case. In fact, though this is a condition developed while your dog is a puppy, some dogs may not show any signs until they are older. You can look out for wobbling or discomfort while standing, or the condition may first become apparent during an X-ray.
• Ear infections. Also called otitis externa, outer ear infections are particularly common in poodles and cocker spaniels. Your cockapoo may also be more susceptible. Look out for signs of ear infections such as head shaking, scratching ears, and inflammation.
• Cataracts. A cataract is when the lens of your dog’s eye becomes cloudy. This condition can be hereditary or age-related. There are varying degrees of cataracts, and you will want to consult a veterinary ophthalmologist to assess your cockapoo’s specific case.
• Glaucoma. Glaucoma Trusted Source The Merck Veterinary Manual Trusted provider of veterinary medicine. Go to source is when there is increased pressure in the eye, which can cause serious complications with your dog’s vision. Watch for signs like eye pain, swelling of the eyeball, along with watery discharge.

Costs of caring for a cockapoo

When considering the cost of caring for your cockapoo, you should factor in normal expenses like training, regular vet visits, boarding fees, and grooming appointments. This is in addition to upfront costs you might pay from a reputable breeder or adoption agency. These costs vary depending on where you live and how often you have certain services performed. From a medical cost standpoint, ear infections are a less costly expense while something like cataracts may run a few thousand dollars.

Pet health insurance for your cockapoo may be a way to greatly reduce how much you pay out of pocket for health expenses. Some providers even cover medications and offer discounts for other services like nail trimming. A pet savings account is also another option when looking for ways to budget.

Cockapoos are known as a “designer breed” and the hybrid dogs were first publicized in the 1960s. Cockapoos have long been popular in the United States due to combining the best traits of the small, playful cocker spaniel and the intelligent, athletic poodle. 

While cockapoos are not recognized by the American Kennel Club, there are plenty of organizations where you can register your new dog. The Cockapoo Club of America and the American Cockapoo Club are both longstanding registers.

Becoming a new pet parent can be overwhelming, but there are a few pointers to help you along the way. First, find a veterinarian and get your dog scheduled for their first vaccinations. Cockapoo puppies, and new dogs in general, will require you to make some adjustments around the house to prepare for things like teething, so make sure to puppy-proof beforehand. Many cockapoo breeders will also give you additional tips about their specific litter before bringing your new dog home.

Exercise 

Cockapoos range from small to medium size, giving them adaptability in various home environments. Both apartment dwellers and those in single-family homes will be fine with this breed. However, cockapoos are fun dogs with energy to burn, so at least 20 minutes of exercise a day will keep them in good shape. Cockapoos need a lot of attention, and playtime is a great way to bond with your pet.

Grooming 

Many dog lovers adore the curly, sometimes scruffy, fur that cockapoos don. Whether your dog inherits more of the poodle or more of the cocker spaniel will determine if their coat leans curly or straight. Regardless of texture, their coats are considered low-shedding and easy to keep clean which is a plus for many. 

However, regular brushing is recommended for their coats. Overall maintenance will also depend on texture and how long you want your cockapoo’s hair to be. If your dog has a long, curly, full coat, you may want to visit the groomer at least once a month.  

Also don’t forget about nail trimming, ear cleaning, and teeth brushing, which are key to optimal health. Most groomers offer these as add-on services if you’re grooming your dog at home.

Diet and nutrition 

A cockapoo’s diet should be completely balanced. This means these high-energy dogs need carbs and protein, plus plenty of nutrients to keep fueled. 

There are no special nutritional requirements of note, but you will want to make sure you only feed high quality dog food. Consult your vet for help regarding the specifics about food portioning. Being that the size and energy level of your cockapoo can vary, the amount of food they need per day depends on your pup, too.

Both cocker spaniels and poodles are highly intelligent breeds, so cockapoos often take well to training. In fact, cockapoos love pleasing their owners and enjoy the time spent together. Using positive reinforcement with treats or other rewards during training can be beneficial.

While you actually can teach an old dog new tricks, the earlier you start the sooner your pet will learn appropriate behaviors. If you have kids at home, it is good to also get them involved with training your cockapoo. Though the breed has a loving and sweet temperament, you’ll want them to learn how to respond appropriately to their younger family members as well.

Not quite sure that a cockapoo is right for you? Even if you are, it’s worth taking the time to research and consider other similar breeds. Here are a few to get you started:

• Cocker spaniel. Instead of a hybrid, you can consider a purebred cocker spaniel. These dogs still have a playful and sweet temperament that make them great for families. 
• Poodle. If you want a highly intelligent, athletic dog then you may want to consider a poodle. The most comparable in size to a cockapoo might be a miniature poodle, but you can choose a toy or standard size and still never have to worry about shedding. This is a higher maintenance dog overall, so always keep care and exercise needs in mind.
• Goldendoodle. Another poodle mix, goldendoodles are similar to cockapoos in terms of temperament and being hypoallergenic. Goldendoodles do require more exercise given their size, but you will love their affectionate nature and ability to be easily trained.