Looking to buy a Cockapoo (a.k.a Cocker Spaniel Poodle-mix) dog? This article is for you, then. Many people don’t know which dog to choose as their future companion. They are confused because they cannot decide whether they should buy a small or a large dog breed, a dog with long coat or a dog with short coat? Choosing any dog without enough research can be worst choice. The doubt about choosing a companion of different species to brighten up the house is perfectly understandable. If you cannot decide, you may discuss with someone who has spent some time with dogs and can give you best advice to help you.
Origin and History of “Cockapoo”
The Cockapoo dog breed is a designer dog, and it is designed by crossing either Spanish or English Cocker Spaniel with a Poodle. This dog breed was originated in the United States of America and it is famous there, while outside the US these breeds are not very known.
From the second half of the twentieth century, with the explosion of the popularization of dogs in ordinary houses, new interests and needs arose when considering the breed of the puppy to be adopted. For example, many people are allergic to dog hair, and although some breeds do not cause reactions (such as Maltese and Poodle), some people do not want dogs of these breeds for some specific reason, such as temperament or size.
In the meantime, the demand arises for dogs of certain appearance, size, and temperament, without sacrificing any other characteristic. Looking at the photos of the Cockapoo, one can clearly see the Cocker’s muzzle, with a wavy coat that originated from the mixture of the curly Poodle and the smooth Spaniel coat.
The popularity of dogs of this breed in the United States is massive, and the Poodle-Cocker mix has become one of the most popular dog. The popularity of the Cockapoo dog breed is increasing from the last two decades.
Personality and temperament of Cockapoo dog
Dogs whose breeding is designed to utilize the strengths of both parents do not have as clear a pattern as pure breeds. But, it is a wrong idea that the Cockapoos will inherit the characteristics of Poodle and Cocker Spaniel’s only or they will inherit the same characteristics as of Poodle and Cocker Spaniels. Every dog is unique in its behavior, but when two very different breeds are crossed, any outcome can be expected. An undetermined number of traits can be inherited from either parent, and the mixture may not be very pleasant.
On the positive side, the temperament of a Cockapoo is much more likely to be perfectly balanced, especially when its breeding and training is done in right way. Moreover, just as there is a small chance of inheriting negative behavioral traits, the same chance exists for all positive ones to be inherited by the new designer dog breed.
Like both parent breeds, the Cockapoo usually fits well with small homes, like apartments. Another trait inherited comes from the hunter ancestors of the two races. Thus, like most hunting dogs, Cockapoos are usually very affectionate to family members, protectors, and perfectly obedient to the member they consider to be their owners.
Both Poodle and Cocker are quite likely to bark a lot, a trait commonly inherited by the Cockapoo. Another negative trait of these dogs is the dependence of humans. There are hardly any specimens that support solitude well, being stressed if they are alone regularly. This problem can be solved by proper training.
Physical Appearance of “Cockapoo”
Being a new dog breed, it is difficult to say about the size of Cockapoo dog, as it can inherit the characteristics of either Poodle or Cocker Spaniel Some reflect more of their cocker spaniel lineages, while others resemble more poodles. Cockapoos come in several different sizes and range from under 10 pounds to more than 20 pounds, and from 10 to 15 cm in height.
Cockapoo dog breed comes in three different sizes, Standard, Mini or Tiny. They also come in a variety of colors. In general, however, Cockapoos have a soft, wavy coating so that curly grows continuously. Their eyes are large and bright and often brown in color. Their ears are medium in size and hang down.
Taking Care of Cockapoo
If you are going to buy or adapt a Cockapoo puppy, you should know that these dogs needs your time and attention. If you cannot give them enough time, it would not be a good idea to buy these dogs. Dogs like Cockapoo needs a lot of your time like playing, exercise, training etc. If you fail to give them enough time, it can develop Separation anxiety.
Training
It is a great idea for a dog to start training from the early age. You should start the training from the first day you bring your puppy home. Cocker Spaniel Poodle-mix is intelligent and can learn quickly. They want to please their owner and they do what their owner ask them. It means training Cockapoos is relatively easy than other dogs. The owner should start training by teaching the dog to act on the commands like sit, come, go, stop etc.
Diet
Cockapoo like to eat quickly as they think that other dog will all of his food. This habit can increase their weight. So, you can give them food in a bowl which can slow down their eating process. Dry Kibble is recommended food for them as it can help to reduce oral diseases such as tooth decay and other dental diseases.
How much Cockapoo should eat? It depends on the size, age, health, food and energy level of the Cocker Spaniel Poodle-mix. It is advised to make a schedule of feeding your dog. It will be good for your dog’s health as he will be eating on time.
Exercise
Cockapoos are active dogs and they need a yard to run and burn their extra calories. If your house does not have a yard, we will advice you to take your dog to the dog parks regularly. Your Cockapoo will enjoy other activities such as ball games and other activities that are good for their health.
Daily 30 minute walk will be OK for Cockapoos. While walking, if your dog is stopping or falling behind, it means that your dog is tired and do not want to walk further.
Toys are another source for Cockapoos or any other dog to exercise. They like toys and play with them.
Grooming
Cockapoo does not shed too much. The shedding can be reduced more by brushing the coat regularly. It helps to remove the extra dead hairs. You have to take your dog to the groomer for a professional cut after 6 months.To avoid the mouth diseases, bad breath, and tooth decay, daily brush with the Toothpaste specially designed for the pets is recommended.
Brush your cockapoo’s teeth 2 or 3 times each week to reduce the risk of oral disease. Inspect and clean its ears weekly and clean his nose and eyes regularly.
Health Concerns of “Cockapoo”
Cocker Spaniel-Poodle mix dogs are generally healthy. As this dog breed is relatively new, we do not know much about their health concerns. According to the dog breeders, they will have the best health as they inherit best of the Cocker or Poodle’s traits.
However, there are some diseases, Cockapoo dog breed can suffer from. Both Cocker and Poodle suffered from the progressive Retinal Atrophy as well as Hip Dysplasia. So, Cockapoo also can suffer from these diseases.
It is recommended to take your Cockapoo to the vet as soon as possible, when you see any unusual behavior or if you think that the dog is suffering from any problem.
Buying a Cockapoo puppy
Cockapoos can be adapted as well as bought from a breeder. If someone wants to save money, he must adapt Cockapoo from a dog rescue or shelter. One can adapt a Cockapoo puppy from a dog shelter for as less as 200$. Buying from the breeder is expensive as compared to adapting. You can buy the Cocker Spaniel-Poodle mix from $1000 to 2500$.
FAQS
Are small apartments are suitable for Cockapoos?
Cockapoos can live in small houses and apartments if the house has a yard too for the dog to run and burn their extra calories. If the house is small without any yard, then exercise and a daily outside walk is recommended.
Are Cockapoos Kid or Children-Friendly?
They get on very well with children and are good companions for people of all ages.
Can the Cockapoo stay home alone?
As Cockapoo are very attached to people, they feel very good being with their human family and if they are left alone, it can be very destructive for them.
Do The Cockapoos barks a lot?
Cockapoos do not bark unnecessarily. They bark if they want to gain your attention or to inform you about any danger or unusual activity.
Does The Cockapoo lose much hair?
They do not lose much hair and shedding can be reduced by regular brushing.
