Whether your dog is a purebred Cockapoo or a Cockapoo mix, learning about their breed can explain a lot about your pet’s personality, habits and overall health. Or maybe you're looking to adopt a Cockapoo and want to do a bit of research first — we can help with that.
Cockapoos are a mix between Cocker Spaniels and poodles. And this blend brings together unique personality traits, fur qualities and health issues to be aware of.
Since Cockapoos are a mixed breed, these pups’ size and appearance depend on their parents. They typically come in three sizes: toy (less than 15 pounds and 10 inches tall), miniature (18 pounds and 14 inches tall) and standard (up to 40 pounds and 18 inches tall).
Floppy ears and oversized paws are two distinct physical features of this dog breed, Dr. Emily Singler, VMD, Fetch’s on-staff veterinarian, says. Cockapoos generally have a stocky build and teddy bear face, too, which often gets them confused with their cousin, the Cavapoo.
Cockapoos’ fur grows in black (and a mix of black and white), chocolate, cream, apricot, red and merle. And these beautiful colored coats grow in different textures, too.
Depending on the dominant breed, Cockapoos’ fur could lean more toward a poodle or Cocker Spaniel. Some of these pups might have curly hair, while others could have a straight, wavy coat.
Even though some Cockapoos might minimally shed (due to their poodle genes), no dog is truly hypoallergenic. “Allergens are still present in dander, aka dead skin flakes mixed with saliva on the skin, so even dogs who don’t shed much can cause allergies in some people,” Dr. Singler explains.
Regardless of coat type, all Cockapoo coats need regular brushing and may require more advanced grooming to keep them looking their best. But, one silver lining is that not only are these pups’ coats low shedding, but they’re also usually odorless.
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Cockapoos make excellent family pets and are known for their friendly, loving, people-centric nature. They’re social dogs who love to be by your side and generally do well with children, Dr. Singler says.
Because of their highly intelligent and trainable nature, lots of exercise and mental stimulation will help prevent boredom. Cockapoos make great apartment pets — as long as they get enough physical activity.
“Cockapoos are eager to please their parents, friendly with strangers and always ready to play, but they really need proper socialization when they’re puppies to bring out the best in their temperament,” Dr. Singler adds.
As mixed-breed dogs, Cockapoos are susceptible to health issues from either side of their makeup.
Cocker Spaniels are predisposed to intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), a spinal disorder that may require surgery and eye issues like glaucoma. Pro-tip: prevent irritation by keeping the fur around their eyes cut short.
On the other hand, poodles are at a higher risk of developing heart disease.
Both poodles and Cocker Spaniels are prone to ear infections, so keep your dog’s ears dry and clean, especially after swimming. Cockapoos can also easily become overweight, increasing the risk of other health problems like diabetes, arthritis and respiratory problems.
Are you interested in adopting a Cockapoo, Cockapoo mix or any pet at all? Or maybe you’ve been looking for a Cockapoo rescue? We think every pet deserves a home and encourage you to check out our shelter partners.
The Dig, Fetch Pet Insurance's expert-backed editorial, answers all of the questions you forget to ask your vet or are too embarrassed to ask at the dog park. We help make sure you and your best friend have more good days, but we’re there on bad days, too.
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