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Everything You Need To Know About Cockapoos
Cockapoos, a cross between cocker spaniels and poodles, are one of the first-ever designer dogs. Their friendly natures, combined with their happy-go-lucky attitudes, helped these crossbreeds quickly rise in popularity. Not only do their sweet temperaments and inherent intelligence make them good therapy dogs, but their hypoallergenic coats make them perfect for anyone who wants an allergen-free household.
If you’d like to see our Cockapoos for sale click the link.
History of the Cockapoo Dog Breed
Cockapoo puppies were first created in the 1960s, when a breeder accidentally combined the genetic material of a cocker spaniel and a poodle. The result was an adorable puppy that had the intelligence of its poodle parent and the friendliness of its cocker spaniel parent. Thanks to these traits, it didn’t take long before the cockapoo breed became a hit.
Most cockapoos are created using an American cocker spaniel, which has a shorter muzzle and shorter ears than an English cocker spaniel. When an English cocker spaniel is bred with a poodle, the result is often called a “spoodle” rather than a cockapoo.
Because poodles have hypoallergenic, low or non-shedding coats, most cockapoos shed minimally as well. However, cockapoos can vary greatly in size, fur type and coloring.
What Type of Weather Do Cockapoos Prefer?
Cockapoos enjoy all types of weather — they’re happy to go for a walk on the beach or play around in the snow. However, it’s important not to leave them outside for too long in extreme heat or cold. Excessively warm weather can damage the paws and cause dehydration, while excessively cold weather can lead to hypothermia.
Appearance: Physical Characteristics of Cockapoos
If you’ve ever looked up pictures of cockapoos, the first thing you’ll probably notice is that they all vary in appearance. Whether a cockapoo has a unique spotted pattern or a curly golden coat that resembles a teddy bear, you can count on one thing: It’s definitely adorable. As a mixed-breed dog with a poodle parent, cockapoos also tend to have low-shedding coats. At Pride & Prejudoodles, we test the coats of all our dogs to make sure they’re suitable for those who suffer from allergies.
How Much Do Cockapoos Weigh?
Depending on their size, cockapoos may weigh anywhere from 6 pounds (common in toy breeds) to 60 pounds (common in maxi breeds). Most cockapoos tend to weigh between 12 and 25 pounds.
How Tall Are Cockapoos?
The height of a cockapoo depends on its parents. A maxi or standard cockapoo is a medium-sized dog that’s over 16 inches tall. However, a miniature cockapoo, which is bred using a miniature poodle, is slightly smaller with a height range of 11 to 15 inches.
Even smaller cockapoos can be bred using toy poodles. A toy cockapoo is no taller than 10 inches, while a teacup toy is even smaller.
What Colors Do Cockapoos Come In?
When you think of a traditional cockapoo puppy, you probably envision a yellow or golden dog. However, these hybrid dogs can come in a wide range of dog hair colors, including:
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- Cream/white
- Apricot
- Red
- Chocolate
- Black
Cockapoos can also be multicolored and have a patterned coat.
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Cockapoo Temperament
The cockapoo would never have taken off in popularity if it weren’t for its lovable personality. This cocker spaniel and poodle mix receives the best of both worlds from its parents. Not only is it extremely friendly and sweet, but it’s also highly intelligent, which makes it easy to train.
Are Cockapoos Good With Kids and Other Pets?
Known for their friendly natures, cockapoos can get along with just about anyone, from young kids and strangers to fellow dogs and pets. Dog owners will quickly realize that cockapoos seek to please — they’re happy to cuddle on the couch or go on a walk with you, which makes them ideal companions.
Although they are friendly by nature (thanks to their cocker spaniel genes), it’s still a good idea to encourage socialization at a young age. Becoming familiar with different sights, sounds and smells early on can help ensure your cockapoo grows to be a kind, gentle adult.
At Pride & Prejudoodles, we offer fully trained dogs that are ready to enter a new household. Along with socialization, we teach our puppies basic obedience commands, housebreaking and behavior modification.
How Much Space Do Cockapoos Require?
Cockapoos tend to be on the small side when it comes to dogs and thus don’t require too much space. They should have enough room to walk around and ideally an outdoor space to get some exercise. Those with small apartments might be better off with a toy variety rather than a maxi variety.
Do Cockapoos Like to Play?
Cockapoos have moderate energy levels, which means they’re active but also enjoy relaxing indoors. They’re perfect for families that enjoy physical activity but have time commitments that prevent them from being outside constantly. Ideally, your puppy should receive at least 15 minutes of exercise a day. This need can be met with a walk around the block, a quick jog or a game of tag in the backyard.
Can Cockapoos Be Left Alone?
Once a cockapoo is properly trained, you can leave it home alone for periods of time without worrying about your property being destroyed. Moreover, the older a cockapoo gets, the better it is at holding its bladder. However, they should not be left alone for more than eight hours at a time. Leaving it alone for too long can cause anxiety or compel your dog to behave badly.
Training: Teaching a Cockapoo
Cockapoos are naturally intelligent dogs that enjoy pleasing their owners. The result is a canine that’s eager to learn and ready to impress with new tricks.
Are Cockapoos Intelligent?
Poodles are known for their naturally curious and intelligent natures, a trait the cockapoo happens to have inherited. Of course, as with any dog breed, it’s up to the dog owner to teach their pet commands, tricks or anything else they want their dog to learn. However, cockapoos can be sensitive, so it’s important to be gentle with them. They respond well to positive reinforcement and can be encouraged with treats.
Are Cockapoos Obedient?
Most cockapoo owners can agree that these dogs are fairly obedient. Their ability to adapt to new environments and eagerness to learn new skills makes them great therapy dogs for elderly individuals and people with disabilities. Of course, it’s up to the owner to supply a nurturing atmosphere that encourages a dog to be obedient.
Do Cockapoos Enjoy Mental Stimulation?
Cockapoos don’t just need to exercise physically — they also need to exercise their minds. If they’re not mentally stimulated, cockapoos may resort to biting themselves or chewing random items to stay entertained. You can keep a cockapoo engaged through chew toys, interactive toys or scavenger hunts.
Cockapoo Health
It’s safe to say that everybody wants a healthy dog. At Pride & Prejudoodles, we test our dogs for over 160 different canine diseases, treat them against worms and make sure they’re up-to-date on their vaccinations. Of course, to prolong your pet’s lifespan, you should be aware of health issues commonly found in cockapoos and know how to identify them.
How Long Do Cockapoos Live?
According to the American Cockapoo Club, most cockapoos have an average lifespan of 14 to 18 years. However, some cockapoos may live for 12 years while others live for over 20 years.
Shedding
While some cockapoo puppies may take after their cocker spaniel parent, most tend to retain the hypoallergenic coats found in poodles. Not only is this beneficial for people with allergies, but it’s also useful for homeowners who don’t want to constantly clean up dog fur. We test the coats to make sure the shedding genes aren’t passed down.
Feeding
Good food is key to a good life, and cockapoos are no exception to this rule. While in the training program at Pride & Prejudoodles, we provide each pup premium dog food as well as NuVet supplements. If you wish to change your dog’s diet, you should gradually transition it to new food to avoid upsetting its stomach.
When feeding your cockapoo, be sure to provide it with a diet that accommodates its size and age. For instance, as your puppy transitions to adulthood, you may have to switch to a lower fat food. You should follow a twice-a-day feeding schedule and always keep an eye out for allergic reactions.
Common Cockapoo Health Issues
Whether you have a cockapoo puppy or an adult dog, it’s important to keep an eye out for any health problems. Cockapoos are more prone to some of the health issues found in poodles and cocker spaniels, such as:
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- Ear infections
- Eye defects (glaucoma, cataracts)
- Hip dysplasia
- Patellar luxation
If you notice any sudden behavioral changes in your dog or any concerning symptoms (such as lethargy, vomiting or limping), you should schedule a visit with your veterinarian immediately.
Grooming
As a dog owner, it’s your responsibility to properly groom your pet. Not only does grooming help improve your dog’s appearance, but it’s also important for your dog’s health. Removing dead fur helps clear your cockapoo’s skin, clearing its pores and reducing the risk of skin irritation.
Because cockapoo fur has a tendency to mat, you should brush it regularly (ideally a few times a week). You should also trim its fur every three months and bathe it about once a month. Avoid giving your dog too many baths, as this can dry out its skin.
Life Stages of Cockapoos
Just like people, cockapoos go through a variety of life stages as they age. You can expect them to undergo some changes as they transition from a newborn puppy to a senior dog. These stages include:
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- Puppyhood
- Adolescence
- Adulthood
- Seniority
Like all dogs, cockapoos start off as puppies. This stage is when their brains are most susceptible to learning, which is why it’s important to begin training and socialization as early as possible. At Pride & Prejudoodles, we start training our puppies as soon as they’re ready, helping them develop into well-adjusted adults.
Once cockapoo puppies reach sexual maturity (typically between 6 and 18 months of age), they enter the adolescence stage. This life stage can be identified through behavioral changes — females may begin roaming around more often, while males might exhibit aggression. Fortunately, thorough and early training can help limit these behaviors. Your dog may also experience pain as it undergoes growth spurts.
Between 12 months and 3 years, adolescent cockapoos begin to enter adulthood. They are officially adults once they reach their expected height and weight. At this stage, some of their more exuberant behaviors mellow out — you may notice your dog is more mature and relaxed.
The final life stage is seniority, which is achieved anywhere between 6 and 10 years. As dogs age, you may notice issues such as increased confusion, fatigue and health problems. Senior dogs may also need to adjust their diet to accommodate changing nutrition needs or weaker teeth. At this stage, it’s important to carefully monitor your pet and take it to the veterinarian if you notice any alarming symptoms.
If you’re ready to adopt a Cockapoo click here to see our availability.
Their small sizes and moderate energy levels make them the perfect dogs for anyone from a single apartment owner to a large family with small kids. When it comes to interests, cockapoo puppies are highly versatile — they enjoy cuddling on the couch for hours at a time, but they’re also always up for a game of fetch or a walk around the block. Best of all, they’re easy to train and love pleasing their owners.
Read on to learn more about the cockapoo breed and why it’s the perfect dog to bring into your home.
What Is a Cockapoo?
Sometime during the 1960s, a poodle and a cocker spaniel mix was bred by accident. The result was the cockapoo, a smart and sweet companion dog with the ability to adapt to several environments. Breeders were thrilled by the likable personalities and easy maintenance of these mixed-breed dogs, and so they sought to create more.
The cockapoo is one of the oldest designer dog breeds there is, which is a testament to its popularity. Because they’re hybrid dogs, they come in a wide range of fur types, from beige and curly coats to straight, brown fur. These crossbreeds also vary in size. Although all dogs tend to be on the small side, some are miniature, while others are larger. Miniature cockapoos are typically less than 15 inches in length and weigh between 12 and 19 pounds, while maxi cockapoos are over 16 inches and weigh anywhere between 20 and 65 pounds. Some breeders even offer teacup cockapoos, which are typically less than six pounds in weight and smaller than 10 inches. Most of these dogs come from miniature poodles and either American or English cocker spaniels, although the precise size and coloring depends on the exact genetic makeup of the parents.
They can be hypoallergenic, low-shedding, and nearly odorless depending on the coat that they inherit, which are all desirable qualities for most prospective dog owners. However, what really makes these dogs stand out is their favorable personality traits.
Cockapoo and Personality
For such small dogs, cockapoos have big personalities. They inherit the intelligence and obedience of poodles, as well as the sweet and affectionate natures of cocker spaniels. The result is a cheerful, friendly dog that’s highly susceptible to training. They respond well to positive reinforcement and are always happy to please.
Thanks to their enthusiastic nature, cockapoos get along with everyone, making them the perfect family dogs. However, because of their tendency to get easily excited, it’s advisable to supervise cockapoos around young children. In terms of energy, cockapoos tend to have moderate activity levels. They’re more than happy to spend time cuddled next to their owners on the couch or curled up in their beds, but they also require daily exercise. These needs can be met through a simple walk around the block or some playtime in the backyard. Other activities cockapoos enjoy include:
- Scavenger hunts: Cockapoos are highly intelligent and love games that let them use their brainpower. Pet parents should try hiding toys or treats around the yard or home for them to find.
- Games of fetch: Fetch is a great way for a cockapoo to get physical activity. This game is also mentally stimulating as it encourages the dog to focus on a specific object.
- Puppy playdates: Cockapoos are very social creatures and enjoy interacting with other dogs. They’re always thrilled to have a “puppy playdate” with fellow dogs in the neighborhood.
- Short runs: When a cockapoo feels particularly energetic, it may get bored with a walk. A run is a great way to relieve this pent-up energy.
If a cockapoo happens to get off-leash during a walk, there’s no need to worry — most cockapoos are attached to their owners and will remain by their side or return at their call. They also have low prey drives, which reduces the likelihood of chasing any squirrels or small animals. However, for the best results, training should start at a young age.
Taking Care of a Cockapoo
While each cockapoo has its own set of unique needs, there are some characteristics they all have in common. Most cockapoos can tolerate being alone and are unlikely to dig up your carpet or destroy your cushions. However, they shouldn’t be left without company for over eight hours — if you leave a cockapoo alone for too long, it may get frustrated or develop separation anxiety.
A big advantage of owning a cockapoo is that they typically don’t bark or howl for long periods of time. However, cockapoos may become frustrated if they don’t get enough exercise. Thus, it’s important to ensure your pet gets a minimum of 15 minutes of exercise every day. In addition to physical activity, cockapoos need mental stimulation — chew toys and squeaky toys are a great way to keep them entertained.
Another positive trait shared by most cockapoos is adaptability. They’re generally tolerant to both cold and warm weather, and they can adjust to homes of all sizes. However, for small apartment owners, it may be better to get a teacup or miniature cockapoo rather than a maxi cockapoo.
Grooming Needs
Along with mental and physical needs, it’s important to consider grooming requirements. Many cockapoos are hypoallergenic dogs that rarely shed, which means you don’t have to worry much about cleaning your furniture or floors. However, most cockapoos will need to be groomed regularly, particularly those with long or curly coats. It’s recommended you brush a cockapoo’s hair four to five times a week to avoid matting. You should also either visit a groomer or trim your dog’s hair yourself every three months.
Another way to take care of your dog’s fur is through baths. Generally, a dog should be bathed at least once a month, as any more than that could dry out the skin. Be sure to use shampoo and conditioner that’s tailored toward your dog’s coat, and make the experience fun by offering your pet a treat. Cockapoos enjoy swimming, so they should react well once they get used to the water. Baths also pose an opportunity to brush your dog’s fur and check for ticks, fleas and skin irritations.
Along with managing your dog’s fur, you should take good care of its teeth and nails. Small dogs are more likely to build up tartar and develop gum infections, so you should thoroughly brush their teeth every two days or so. You should also trim their nails at least once a month to avoid scratches.
Cockapoo Health
Cockapoos have an average lifespan of 12 to 15 years, which is on the higher side for dogs. The better your dog’s health, the longer lifespan it will have. Methods to keep your cockapoo in good condition include making sure it gets regular exercise, feeding it high-quality dog food and keeping an eye out for any common health ailments.
As cocker spaniel and poodle mixes, cockapoos are susceptible to some of the health problems found in their purebred parents. Health issues to should look out for include:
- Ear infections: Cockapoos have floppy ears, which means they’re more prone to infections in the ear canal.
- Hip dysplasia: Hip dysplasia results in the deterioration of the hip joint, which can lead to lameness.
- Cataracts: Dogs with cataracts have cloudy or blurred vision.
- Patellar luxation: In patellar luxation, the kneecap slides out of place. This can be painful and negatively impact motion.
- Dermatitis: Develops rashes or itches due to airborne substances, such as pollen or dust.
You can reduce the effects of these issues by getting your dog checked regularly and by keeping an eye out for any symptoms, such as lethargy, vomiting or rashes. However, many health problems can be avoided altogether by simply going to a reputable breeder.
Peace of Mind
When you get a puppy from our specialist breeders at Pride & Prejudoodles, you don’t just get a new best friend for life — you also receive the peace of mind that you’re receiving a healthy, obedient and well-rounded dog. We offer the following amenities:
- Testing for over 160 canine diseases
- Coat testing to ensure they are non-shedding and hypoallergenic
- Temperament testing to determine therapy dog potential
- Worming, vaccinations and vet checkups
- One- to two-year genetic health guarantee
- Obedience training, housebreaking, socialization and behavior modification
We also offer free hand delivery in New York City, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, Washington DC, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and more depending on your location.
Get a Cockapoo Today
There’s no doubt that cockapoos make the perfect family pets. Not only are they adorable, but their calm, affectionate temperaments and high intelligence make them incredibly practical. If you want a dog that’s quick to learn, isn’t too high-energy and gets along with everybody, then a cockapoo is your best bet. To learn more about this breed and how they compare to other poodle mix breeds, check our cockapoo vs cavapoo detailed comparison.
Once you’ve decided on getting a cockapoo, the next step is to find a high-quality, reputable breeder. Trustworthy breeders treat animals humanely, and they thoroughly check for health problems such as hip dysplasia or ear infections to make sure your new pet is both happy and healthy.
At Pride & Prejudoodles, we pride ourselves on our high-quality breeding and pet care. Not only do we conduct extensive health tests, but we also provide therapy-dog quality obedience training. By teaching dogs valuable lessons at a young age, we help guarantee good behavior in the future. As a bonus, we make sure our dogs are non-shedding.
Enjoy limited housebreaking accidents, worry-free socialization and overall peace of mind by getting your dog through Pride & Prejudoodles. We offer a wide range of cockapoos that come in a myriad of sizes and colors, and you can always expect your pet to be health-tested, housebroken and obedient. We’ll even give you personalized training tips to help your dog transition to its new home. Learn more about our services by contacting us today!
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