Cockapoo Breed Guide: Temperament, Care and Health

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

The Cockapoo, known as the Cockerpoo in the UK, is a cross between a Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle. It is a small to medium dog with a soft, wavy coat, an affectionate nature and a playful streak, and it is one of the earliest and most popular poodle crosses.

Origins and appearance

Cockapoos appeared in the United States in the mid-twentieth century and have been bred ever since in several sizes. They have a rounded head, long drop ears, expressive eyes and a coat that ranges from straight to curly in colors such as black, chocolate, red, cream, apricot and parti-colored.

Temperament

They are usually affectionate, lively and eager. They tend to love people and are often good with children and other pets. They can be sensitive and clingy. They dislike being left alone and may develop separation problems.

Exercise

They need an hour or so of daily exercise, with walks, play and scent games. They enjoy training. Mental work matters.

Training

They are intelligent and eager to please. Use positive methods, short sessions and early socialization. Teach alone-time skills early. Cockapoos can be sensitive to harsh voices. See how to help a dog with separation anxiety.

Coat and grooming

Coats need brushing several times a week and a trim every six to eight weeks. See curly coat dog grooming guide. Mats form behind the ears and in the armpits. Clean the ears carefully, trim nails and brush teeth.

Health considerations

A cross can inherit conditions from either parent. Topics include:

• Ear infections. See dog ear infections
• Eye conditions, including progressive retinal atrophy and dry eye. See dry eye in dogs
• Hip dysplasia. See hip dysplasia in dogs
• Skin allergies. See dog skin allergies
• Luxating patella. See luxating patella in dogs
• Dental disease. See dental disease in dogs

Living with a Cockapoo

They suit families and individuals who want a friendly companion and will budget for grooming and time. They do best with company. They are poorly suited to long hours alone.

A typical day

A Cockapoo wants a morning walk, play, a rest, family time and an evening outing. Many follow their owners around.

Puppies and the first year

Puppies are bouncy and mouthy. Begin socialization, handling and grooming early. Provide chew toys. See puppy socialization checklist.

Costs and commitment

Plan for food, regular grooming, training and vet care. See dog vet cost guide.

Seasons and travel

They are adaptable but may overheat in hot weather. Provide shade and water. They travel well.

Common mistakes

Common mistakes include assuming the coat is hypoallergenic, skipping grooming, leaving the dog alone and choosing a puppy from a seller who does not test parents.

Choosing a puppy or adult

Ask about hip, eye and DNA testing on both parents and meet them. Be wary of sellers who sell many litters or promise coat type.

Ears need attention

Long, hairy ears trap moisture and wax, which makes ear infections common in the breed. Dry the ears after baths and swims, trim hair as advised and check for odor or redness.

Sizes and nicknames

Toy, miniature and standard Poodles can all be used, so Cockapoo sizes vary. The Cockerpoo name is common in the UK. Ask for adult sizes of the parents rather than relying on size labels.

Daily care checklist

• A walk or play session.
• Brushing and checking for mats.
• Ear checks and drying.
• Training or puzzle games.
• Company and a comfortable bed.

Is it the right breed for you?

A Cockapoo suits social, active owners who want a small, friendly companion and will groom regularly. It may not suit those out all day. For a parent breed, see the English Cocker Spaniel.

The takeaway

Cockapoos are affectionate, lively and trainable, and they need exercise, grooming, ear care and company.