Cockapoos have always been a sweet and happy addition to a family, whether for single owners or a big family. These dogs tend to have sweet natures and cheerful dispositions. They are always trying to find ways to cheer you up, cuddle with you, or get you to play! Here are a few facts about Cockapoos:

1. The Cockapoo was one of the first designer dog breeds
2. They were originally bred for temperament, not looks
3. Cockapoos and Cockerpoos are different
4. Their coat comes in many colors and patterns
5. Cockapoos can be couch potatoes
6. They are still athletic dogs
7. They are a great fit for first-time dog owners
8. Cockapoos love to learn
9. Cockapoos require frequent grooming

1. The Cockapoo Was One of the First Designer Dog Breeds

Cockapoos were created in the 1960s and are considered one of the first designer dog breeds, at least according to the modern “designer dog” definition. Since then, they have paved the way for other mixed or hybrid breeds to be considered designer dogs.

There are several organizations within the United States and around the world that are working to get the Cockapoo recognized as a purebred dog. Due to their influence in the canine world and the breeders working to establish healthy breed bloodlines, there is potential for the Cockapoo to eventually be recognized as a purebred dog after several successive generations of breed standards.

2. They Were Originally Bred For Temperament, Not Looks

It is to the Cockapoo’s advantage that they are incredibly cute, but they weren’t originally bred just for looks and being adorable. Although their appearance is a bonus, the Cockapoo was originally bred to get a smaller dog breed with the best temperament and characteristics of its two parent breeds.

Well-socialized Cockapoos tend to be patient and understanding, adaptable and gentle, and thrive on human affection. With some of the most affectionate dog breeds as parents, it’s not a surprise that Cockapoos are true companion dogs.

This has made them the perfect dog for single owners, elderly owners, and families with children. They are considered one of the kid-friendly dog breeds. They also tend to make great therapy dogs, and some have even been trained as service dogs.

3. Cockapoos and Cockerpoos Are Different

Although these dogs may seem similar at first, they are slightly different. Because there are separate American and English Cocker Spaniels, this designer dog breed is slightly different, depending on the Cocker Spaniel in the mix.

A Cockapoo is a cross between a Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle. A Cockerpoo is a cross between an English Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle. Cockapoos are more common in the United States, where the American Cocker Spaniel is more prevalent, while Cockerpoos are more common in England, where the English Cocker Spaniel is more prevalent. In Australia, a mix between a Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle is more commonly called a Spoodle.

4. Their Coat Comes in Many Colors and Patterns

With the Poodle in the mix, Cockapoos have a wide variety of coat colors and patterns. They can be:

• White
• Cream
• Silver
• Tan, buff, or beige
• Red (from a dark auburn to a lighter apricot color)
• Brown (from dark shades to very light shades)
• Sable
• Black
• Roan (a mix of white and colored fur)
• Brindle
• Merle

Cockapoos can have a coat that is one solid color, a combination of colors, or can also feature different types of markings. Essentially, any coat color in Cocker Spaniels or Poodles, including combinations, can show up in Cockapoos. They may also have ticking in their coat, which are markings that look like little spots or freckles. Merle coat color variations in Cockapoos often give their coat a speckled or mottled appearance in certain areas.

5. Cockapoos Can Be Couch Potatoes

Cockapoos tend to have a moderate activity level. Their daily walks and some playtime are usually sufficient for this pup. They also tend to match their activity level with yours. So, if you live a more active lifestyle, your Cockapoo will be happy to keep up. They’ll also be just as happy curling up for some cuddles and a nap with you after a walk.

As long as they get some daily exercise, they can be low-key and may even give you their best impression of a couch potato. But, they have a playful nature and love being around their favorite humans, so they’ll be easily persuaded into playtime or an adventure with you.

6. They Are Still Athletic Dogs

One of the facts about Cocker Spaniels is that they are the smallest sporting breed. Although they are little dogs, they are also sturdy and athletic dogs that tend to excel at a variety of dog sports and athletic activities. The same is true for a Cockapoo. Although these dogs love to cuddle and can be low-energy if you are, they can also often keep up with you on more athletic endeavors, too.

Just make sure to keep things low-impact until puppies finish growing to avoid damage to developing bones and joints. Puppies finish growing at different rates. A lot of small dog breeds tend to be fully-grown by 6-8 months, but some may take longer than others. Your vet will be able to help you determine when your puppy is done growing and is ready for higher-impact activities.

7. They Are a Great Fit For First-Time Dog Owners

This designer dog breed tends to be highly intelligent and eager to please their owners. They’re sensitive and in tune with their owners. All of these traits make the Cockapoo a highly trainable dog breed that is a good fit for owners of any experience level, including first-time dog owners.

8. Cockapoos Love to Learn

In addition to being intelligent dogs, Cockapoos tend to be clever dogs that love to learn. They tend to pick up on basic commands quickly and thrive with positive training methods. This dog responds best to consistent, reward and praise-based training.

Because they pick up on things quickly, they can often excel at learning more advanced commands or tricks, or learning to respond to hand signals in addition to verbal cues. Often, they enjoy learning new things and love the attention and praise that performing new tricks or excelling at new activities gets them.

9. Cockapoos Require Frequent Grooming

Cockapoo puppies often inherit the low/non-shedding coat of their Poodle parent. However, just as with the Poodle, just because a coat is low-shedding does not mean that it is low-maintenance. Your Cockapoo’s coat will require frequent brushing and grooming to prevent tangles and mats. You’ll need to get their coat trimmed or professionally groomed about every 4-6 weeks.

If their coat is not kept short and clean, it can get pretty dirty. On top of that, going too long without a trim often results in an unruly coat that starts to get matted. Matting is painful for your dog as mats are often heavy and pull on the skin. Once they’re formed, mats need to be cut or shaved off. For the health and comfort of your dog, it’s much better to spend the time and effort taking care of their coat regularly to prevent mats from forming in the first place.

Is a Cockapoo Puppy Right For You?

Cockapoos are a great fit for any type of family that can spend plenty of time giving them the attention and affection they crave. This dog breed is happiest when they are with their favorite humans and are sure to fill your life with plenty of love and laughter.

These are just a few facts about Cockapoos. If you think a Cockapoo is the right dog breed for you, learn more about them and take a look at the available Cockapoo puppies. Who knows? You could find the perfect addition to your family and your new best friend!