Designer Breed Icon
  • Activity Level: moderate
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  • Shedding Level: low
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  • Grooming Level: high
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  • Trainability: high
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  • Good for Novice Owners: high
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  • Adaptability: high
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  • Kid/Pet Friendly: often
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  • Prey Drive: moderate
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  • Watchdog: aware
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  • Average Size: Small
  • Average Lifespan: 12-15 years
  • Registered?: other

Cockapoo Dog Breed Information

Overview

Temperament

Adaptability

Health

Owner Experience

Grooming

Activity Level

Size

Life Span

Did You Know?

The Cockapoo is a cross between a Cocker Spaniel and a Miniature Poodle, a Cockapoo and either of the original parent breeds, or two Cockapoos. They are one of the most popular designer dog breeds. The Cocker Spaniel in the mix can be either an English Cocker Spaniel or an American Cocker Spaniel. The American Canine Hybrid Club recognizes both mixes.

The Cockapoo can also be referred to as a Spoodle or a Cockadoodle. Many dog lovers are enamored with them because of their mix of the Cocker Spaniel’s outgoing and energetic personality with the non-shedding properties of the Miniature Poodle.

With some of the most affectionate dog breeds as parents, well-socialized Cockapoos are affectionate family dogs that thrive on attention and affection from their favorite humans. They tend to get along well with children, other dogs, and other pets.

Provided they are properly socialized, they are even open and friendly with strangers. After all, it’s just another potential playmate and someone to give them the attention and affection they crave.

Cockapoos are highly adaptable dogs. Provided they get enough daily attention, mental stimulation, and exercise, they adapt well to larger homes as well as apartments. They do well in most climates, but are sensitive to heat. Due to their small size, they may also need to bundle up with some winter dog products while on walks in the cold.

Because they thrive on attention and bond so closely with their families, these companion dogs do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. They can also be prone to developing separation anxiety if you do not work with them early on.

Potential health concerns to be aware of in Cockapoos can include elbow dysplasia, hip dysplasia, cataracts, and glaucoma. Good breeding practices and screening make a big difference in the health of puppies.

Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to ensure they are not passing preventable issues to puppies. Make sure you ask about the health and genetic history of both parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done.

With some of the best dog breeds for first-time owners as parents, the Cockapoo is also a great fit for owners of any experience level. They bond closely with their owners and are sensitive to them. This, along with their intelligence and eagerness to please, means they pick up on things quickly and respond well to rewards and praise.

Although any Cockapoos tend to have the low/non-shedding Poodle coat, there can be a range of coat types. They could have a coat similar to a Mini Poodle or a coat similar to a Cocker Spaniel. In either case, you will need to brush them daily to remove tangles and prevent mats and visit the groomer every 6-8 weeks.

In addition to coat care, you will also need to take care of your Cockapoo’s nails, ears, and teeth. Cutting your dog’s nails once or twice monthly keeps them from growing too long. Weekly ear checks along with careful cleanings if needed can help prevent ear infections. Daily dental care for dogs helps prevent painful dental diseases later in life. Daily brushing, along with cleanings as the vet when needed, is ideal.

Cockapoos may be small dogs, but they are also playful and energetic. These dogs sit in a moderate activity range and will often match their energy level to yours. Daily walks plus some play sessions throughout the day are usually enough for these dogs, but they will also usually be up for more activity if you are.

They also tend to be versatile and athletic. Once puppies finish growing and the vet clears them for what you want to try, you can try a variety of activities with them. Dog sports, like rally, agility training, flyball, and more, can be good options even if you aren’t training for a competition.

Fully-grown Cockapoos usually stand 10-15 inches tall and weigh 12-24 pounds.

Cockapoos generally live for 12-15 years on average.

One of the facts about Cockapoos is that they are considered one of the first designer dog breeds, according to the modern definition of the term. They have been a popular designer dog breed since the 1960s.