Cockapoos are one of the Hybrid dog breeds, also known as a designer breed. Cockapoo’s are believed to be one of the first of the modern termed designer dogs although breeders have been doing this for decades if not centuries.
Such designer breeds are considered hybrid mixes until a number of generations of them is eventually accepted as a purebred.
This will only happen when consistent size and uniformity reign supreme. Currently there are a variety of sizes.
As with most current crossbreeds, there is a wide variability in the Cockapoo’s dimensions and appearance, and with many colours and combinations of colour.
You also get difference in the appearance of the coat which can be be straight, wavy, or curled as tight as a poodle.
To confuse matters even more those dogs that weigh less than 12 pounds (5.4 kg) are labelled as Toy Cockapoos, dogs that weigh between 13 and 18 pounds (5.9 and 8.2 kg) are considered to be Miniature Cockapoos and those dogs weighing over 19 pounds (8.6 kg) are listed as Standard Cockapoos.
This sizing does have some relevance to the Poodle sizes from which they are bred.
Some people refer to these dogs as Cockapoo’s but this is simply a name choice and is easier to write or say than Cockapoodle.
They are the offspring from a purebred Cocker Spaniel and purebred Poodle either standard, miniature or toy poodle, hence the size differences.
Their popularity as a family dog has steadily increased in recent decades as this cross not only combines the best behavioural traits of both their parent breeds, but has also shown that their appearance has become more uniformed.
In order to promote the crossbreed in the United States a dedicated club has been formed, called the Cockapoo Club of America.
Origin: ~ UK and the USA.
Bred for: ~ Fun loving, Gentle natured Family Pet.
Colour: ~ Black, Brown, Red and White with a mix of the various colours from both parent breeds.
Coat: ~ A medium to soft touch of varying lengths, with straight, wavy or curly hair.
Height: ~ 10 to 18 inches or 25 to 46cms.
Weight:
9 to 12lbs or 4 to 5.4kgs are Toy,
13 to 18lbs or 5.8 to 8.1kgs are Miniature and Dogs over 19lbs or 8.6kgs are considered to be Standard
Lifespan: ~ 12 to 15 years.
AKC Group – Not Recognised.
Temperament and Upkeep of the Cockapoo
The Cockapoo is a loyal, charming, and intelligent pet, with an all-round lovable nature. They are reasonably energetic and as such suit young owners or active owners with children.
Cockapoos are normally friendly with other dogs and other household pets.
They usually integrate well with children and enjoy playing games, you will however need to be protective of the toy group with small children as the dogs need to be protected from any overly rough play or handling by the children.
Cockapoos need a moderate activity level a nice walk or active play each day will keep them from being bored and allow a certain level of fitness.
Certainly the two larger sizes are athletic enough to participate in dog sports such as agility, flyball, obedience and rally.
Start training at an early age if you can, socialisation into class group activities work really well with this dog.
Socialization with children and family members should be fairly easy although some of these dogs, particularly the smaller sizes can appear a little nervous when boisterous children are about.
The constant socialization within the family will help them to stabilise and gain confidence.
Are Cockapoo’s Hypoallergenic.
Cockapoos are a great choice for allergy sufferers as they generally shed much less than many other breeds.
- Cockapoo coats will vary, depending very much on their parentage. Their hair can be long, straight or curly and hair loss in minimal.
- Dependant upon straight or curly regular brushing may be needed to avoid the hair becoming matted. For allergy sufferers professional grooming will help.
- Professional trimming will also help to keep your dogs eyes clear and as with most lop eared dogs their ear canals can become moist and make them prone to infection so trimming around and inside the ears will help to avoid problems.
Training your Cockapoo
cockapoo’s are usually keen to train as they love to please, enjoy games and love socialization.
Don’t be shy or lazy, start them young such as house training to avoid accidental poops indoors, they will love your encouragement.
