Cockapoo
The hybrid Cockapoo has a life expectancy of 12 to 15 years.
Origin
The Cockapoo is a designer breed and a mix between the Cocker Spaniel and the Poodle. The Cockapoo is considered to be the first designer breed and appeared in the United States around the 1950s. The breeding was believed to be accidental, but the resulting dog was found to be very intelligent with a low-shedding and nearly odorless coat. As a result, further Cockapoos were developed.
Size
Depending on their breeding, the size of the Cockapoo can vary greatly from 6 to 75 pounds. On average, the Cockapoo weighs 15 to 20 pounds; however there are five size classifications for the breed including giant, standard, miniature, toy and teacup toy.
Giant: 30 or more pounds, 17 or more inches
Standard: 20 to 30 pounds, 14 to 17 inches
Miniature: 12 to 20 pounds, 11 to 14 inches
Toy: 12 pounds or less, 10 inches or less
Teacup Toy: 6 pounds or less, 10 inches or less
Grooming Needs
The Cockapoo should be brushed daily and bathed when necessary. The Cockapoo is a low to no shedding dog and naturally odor free. The Cockapoo’s coat is highly dependent on their breeding and can be curly like the Poodle, wavy like the Cocker Spaniel or fall somewhere in between. Regardless of the consistency, the Cockapoo’s coat is long and can either be kept that way or cut short for easier maintenance. The hair around the eyes almost always needs to be trimmed to prevent irritation.
Like all dogs, the Cockapoo also needs basic grooming. Brush their teeth, clean their ears and trim their nails on a regular basis.
Character
The Cockapoo is sweet and social.
Temperament
The Cockapoo can accurately be described as happy. The Cockapoo has a zest for life and adores people. They accept everyone and are especially fond of children. Cockapoos are gentle and patient like the Cocker Spaniel and outgoing and entertaining like the Poodle. Cockapoos make terrific companions and their greatest joy is being with the people they love.
Training Needs
The Cockapoo is smart and eager to please. The Cockapoo is easy to train and picks up tricks and commands quickly just like the Poodle.
Activity Level
The Cockapoo is fairly energetic and requires regular exercise. The Cockapoo tends to adapt to the activity level of their household, but should always be taken on a daily walk and given time to play and run.
