You probably heard of a Cockapoo, or a Cocker Poodle, didn’t you? It is one of the earliest breed hybrids on the planet. Just to mention that its full name is a Cocker Spaniel Poodle mix, as it is a mixture of those two popular dogs. Meanwhile in Australia, these gorgeous mutts are ‘Spoodles’!
They have been popular in the US since the 1950s. So the Cocker Spaniel Poodle mix was in demand long before the craze for designer dogs.
Important note about their existence was that they even made it into the Oxford English Dictionary in 1960!
As with all known cross-breeds, Cocker Spaniel Poodle mix can vary depending on their parentage. It’s a usual thing.
Cockapoo Types
Let’s quickly go through the Cockapoo types. Cocker Spaniels can be either an American or English Cocker Spaniel, while Poodles can come in three different sizes. This means that these differences can lead to a lot of subtle variation in the Cockapoo dog breed.
Also, another important note was that the American Cocker Spaniel was first recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1878. Since then they’ve grown in popularity to become the 29th most popular dog breed. This breed is an energetic sporting dogs, also famous for their endurance and good spirit. Additionally, this cocker spaniel mix makes great family pets.
Cockapoo Temperament
Be sure that the Cockapoos are very loving, loyal and energetic pets. They love to be active and enjoy walking, running and playing – same as other dogs.
If you didn’t know, just like their Poodle parents they also boast above-average intelligence. Also, Cocker Spaniel Poodle mix hybrid dogs display the characteristic gentleness of Cocker Spaniels.
Eager to please and very affectionate, these furry companions are ideal for families. They often have a natural affinity for children. This makes them a perfect fit for anyone.
In fact, they are so gentle and loving towards kids that Cockapoos are also therapy and comfort dogs. It has a high percentage of success. If you didn’t know, in a 2010 project, two Cockapoos were enlisted to help autistic children do better at school. Having the dogs in the classroom improved pupils’ communication and social skills.
So far by now, the happy-go-lucky Cockapoo personality has won them many celebrity fans. Famous Cockapoo owners include Jennifer Aniston, Ashley Judd and Lady Gaga! Who doesn’t want to have this lovely pup?
Cockapoo Size
First of all, the Cockapoo size depends on the dog’s parentage.
A straightforward, first generation Cockapoo will be a mix of a Poodle and a Cocker Spaniel. Also, a second generation can be a Cockapoo bred with either of its parent breeds or another Cockapoo.
When it comes to Poodle hybrids, they can be small, big or anything in between! This is because Poodles come in Toy, Miniature and Standard. What a mix, huh?
Looking at the statistics, a Toy Poodle is less than 10 inches high. A Miniature Poodle is 10-15 inches. Finally, a Standard Poodle is over 15 inches tall. However, Miniature Poodles are the most commonly bred for Cockapoos. This results in a mini Cockapoo. How sweet!
This teddy bear dog is a medium-sized breed. They range between 13.5 – 15.5 inches tall and weigh between 20 and 30 pounds.
Now let’s talk about the mixes. A Teacup Cockapoo (the smallest) is under 6 pounds, according to Foley. A Toy Cockapoo should weight between 7 and 12 pounds. A Miniature Cockapoo is 13 to 18 pounds and a Maxi Cockapoo weights over 19 pounds.
Grooming
Happily for allergic owners, Cockapoos do not shed much. Also, this is great news for an owner that doesn’t have much time. This is especially true if you brush and groom them regularly. They have very soft fur and are a low-maintenance dog.
A general rule of thumb is that the straighter the coat, the more the dog will shed.
The Cockapoo Club of America advises that you brush and comb their fur regularly. Groom them every six to ten weeks and take them for a clipping at least once a year. By doing this, you’ll avoid unnecessary issues.
However, you may need to clip them more often if your Cockapoo has a straighter/longer coat.
Be sure to use a professional groomer and discuss your options beforehand. They will be able to give your dog a cut that suits both your lifestyle and his. It’s always better to leave it to professionals.
In the end, it’s important to start brushing Cockapoos early. Establish a routine when they are a puppy. This will get them used to the process and help them to get familiar. In addition, it helps create a bond between pup and owner.
Cockapoo Health and life expectancy
Sadly, they are prone to some genetic diseases. But still less common than a purebred dog.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) is a disease of both breeds, the Poodle and Cocker Spaniels. Unfortunately this means it sometimes makes the leap to their offspring.
You should be aware that PRA causes cells at the back of the eye to degenerate and die. Most affected dogs eventually lose their sight. There is no cure for PRA, but thankfully it can be eliminated by careful breeding. So, by doing this properly you’ll prevent the disease.
As said previously, you can prevent the disease from spreading by testing for it before breeding. It’s important to use a reputable breeder and ask for health screening records.
Beside the PRA, Glaucoma can also be passed on from Poodles and Cocker Spaniels. This is where pressure in the eye can damage sight. Again, glaucoma can be tested for and avoided. Also, use a reputable breeder!
Unfortunately this is not the end, both Poodles and Cocker Spaniels can also suffer from hip dysplasia. This is a painful condition where the hip joint develops abnormally. Symptoms include discomfort, lameness and swelling at the hip joint.
Make sure the parents of your Cockapoo puppy have been screened for hip dysplasia, same as with other possible diseases.
You should know that the average lifespan of a Cockapoo adult is approximately 13.5 years.
In the end, we know for certain that Miniature Poodles live on average 14 years. Whereas Cocker Spaniels live for 11.5 years.
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