About your Cockapoo
The Cockapoo has a Poodle’s intelligence and a Cocker Spaniel’s temperament. The result is often a clever, sweet-natured companion.
Cockapoos are a popular pet choice for families looking for fun, friendly and energetic little dogs. They often retain their puppy playfulness well into adulthood and are always ready for a game.
They like to be involved in all aspects of family life and love being the centre of attention.
Cockapoo features
Size
Usually the parent is a Miniature Poodle, resulting in a medium-sized dog around 36-38cm in height.
Weight
The typical weight of a fully grown Cockapoo ranges from 9-11kg.
Typical lifespan
13 years, though this figure varies.
Colour
Colours include red, black, golden, chocolate, black and tan, liver and tan, white, apricot, beige, silver, blue, tricolour, roan, sable and merle.
Coat
Curly or wavy with minimal shedding. Sometimes described as hypoallergenic and good for people with dog allergies, but this isn’t a guarantee.
Temperament
Fun-loving, friendly, outgoing and intelligent, but can suffer from separation anxiety. You can learn how to deal with it here.
What conditions do Cockapoos suffer from?
Crossbreeds don’t guarantee good health. Cockapoos can still suffer from a number of health conditions:
GPRA (Generalised Progressive Retinal Atrophy)
An inherited eye disease that can lead to blindness. Commonly seen in both Cocker Spaniels and Poodles.
Hereditary cataracts
Where a dog’s vision gets cloudier.
Glaucoma
Pressure in the eye that can lead to blindness.
Phosphofructokinase Deficiency (PFKD)
A metabolic condition that affects Cockapoos resulting in exercise intolerance and muscle disease.
Acral Mutilation syndrome (AMS)
An inherited nervous system disorder seen in puppies in which pain sensation in the lower limbs is lost. Puppies will lick or bite their paws and hurt themselves.
Luxating patella
This is where a dog’s kneecaps are prone to dislocating.
Hip dysplasia
Hip joints that haven't developed normally, causing pain and poor mobility.
Ear problems
A Cockapoo's floppy ears are susceptible to infection and need regular cleaning.
Atopy
A chronic skin disease associated with allergies. Causes itchy, inflamed skin and can lead to ear infections.
This list isn't exhaustive. Regular visits to the vet will help pick up these conditions early.
How to keep a Cockapoo healthy
Research the breeder
Ensure the breeder carries out all necessary health tests for both parents before mating. These tests include:
- general veterinary health check
- hip and elbow scoring
- eye testing
- inherited disease/DNA testing
- deafness testing
- respiratory function
Always follow the advice of your vet. This’ll give your Cockapoo puppy the best chance of a long and healthy life.
Use the right food
Always ensure you’re giving your Cockapoo the best food in the right amounts.
Exercise regularly
Regular exercise is essential to keep your dog alert, happy and well.
Visit the vet annually
It’s a good idea for your Cockapoo to have an annual health check with your vet so that any issues can be picked up early. Most owners combine this with their pet's yearly vaccination boosters.
Insurance doesn't typically cover routine visits. It's worth reminding yourself about what vet bills insurers cover.
Living with a Cockapoo
How to train/exercise a Cockapoo
Cockapoos need an hour of exercise every day, which should comprise walks, games and training.
They're very active dogs that become bored if they don't get enough exercise or stimulation. Boredom leads to behaviour problems like chewing and excessive barking.
Training and socialisation should start as early as possible.
Cockapoos respond best to positive reinforcement training, which uses rewards rather than punishment to get results.
How to feed a Cockapoo
Always feed your Cockapoo on good quality, complete food. The volume of food depends on their size, life stage and lifestyle.
Vets recommend feeding your dog two or more smaller meals a day instead of one.
It's important to monitor your Cockapoo's body condition and weight. Overweight or obese dogs are at a much higher risk of developing health conditions. You can read more about insurance for overweight pets.
Remember to factor treats into your dog's daily allowance. These can add up if you're actively training them.
How to groom a Cockapoo
Cockapoo coats vary.
The three possible types are a:
- tight curly coat
- loose wavy coat
- straight coat
All coats require regular brushing to keep them healthy and to prevent matting.
They'll benefit from being trimmed by a professional groomer every four to six weeks to make maintenance easier.
Cockapoos like swimming and water, so be sure to bathe them occasionally.
What information do I need for a dog insurance quote?
To get a dog insurance quote, we just need:
Your Cockapoo's details
- name
- gender
- age
- purchase or donation price
- spay or neuter status
- breed
Your details
- name
- date of birth
- address
- email address
- phone number
- preferred policy start date
Get a Cockapoo quote
Stay prepared by giving your Cockapoo cover with our pet insurance.
We have a 15% Multi Pet discount, Five Star rated Gold and Platinum cover which has Defaqto's highest rating, along with Lifetime and Time-Limited options.
If you're not sure which cover is best for your dog, then read our post on how to choose.
