Cockapoo breed guide

If you’re searching for a canine companion who’s active, friendly, and loves to have fun, then look no further than the endearing cockapoo!

Read our guide to find out more about the enchanting cockapoo breed…

Cockapoo breed history

Originally considered a ‘designer crossbreed’, the cockapoo’s story began in the USA during the 1950s-1960s. The intention of those first cockapoo breeders was to develop a small-to-medium sized dog who didn’t shed, who could be an intelligent and active canine companion.

The cockapoo is a hybrid dog breed, which means they’re a cross between two different breeds of dog – the cocker spaniel and the (miniature) poodle. For this reason, however, establishments like the Kennel Club do not currently recognise the cockapoo officially as a pedigree dog breed.

Cockapoo generation categorisation

To help pet parents understand their cockapoo’s ancestry, a system has been set up that describes how a cockapoo has been crossed, as follows:

• F1 = ‘first generation’ cross between a cocker spaniel and a poodle.
• F2 = ‘second generation’ whose parents are both ‘F1’ cockapoos
• F3 = ‘third generation’ whose parents are both ‘F2’ cockapoos.
• F4-F7 = each subsequent generation of cockapoos.

If the letter ‘b’ is added to the relevant ‘F’ code above, that means a cockapoo has been bred with either a cocker spaniel or a poodle. For example, if an F1 cockapoo bred with a cocker spaniel, their puppies would be ‘F1b’ – and if an F2 cockapoo bred with a poodle, their puppies would be ‘F2b’.

Should two cockapoos of different generations produce a litter of puppies, those puppies can only be considered one generation up from the parent with the lowest ‘F’ number. For instance, breeding an F1 and an F2 cockapoo would produce puppies considered to be ‘F2’ – though F1 and F3 cockapoos would also produce a litter of ‘F2’ puppies.

Common characteristics of the cockapoo breed

Please remember that the following characteristics are considered ‘average’ for cockapoos, and since each dog is a unique individual, your cockapoo’s characteristics may differ.

Average height for a cockapoo

On average, a cockapoo measures in at 25-40cm in height at the shoulder – which largely depends on the height of their parents.

Average weight for a cockapoo

A cockapoo’s weight depends on their overall size, diet, and activity levels, though they usually weigh approximately 5-11kg.

Average lifespan for a cockapoo

Generally, cockapoos are known to live for around 14-18 years.

Typical cockapoo appearance

Owing to the variety of genetics involved in developing the cockapoo breed (more on this later!), their appearance isn’t necessarily considered ‘standard’ – as would normally be expected for pedigree breeds. So, it’s worth noting that your cockapoo’s appearance may differ from the description given here…

The cockapoo’s curious eyes are framed by layers of curly hair, whereas their muzzle often presents a permanently ‘happy’ expression resembling that of the ever-cheerful cocker spaniel.

While their body shape tends to be compact, the cockapoo is fairly tall in comparison to their body size, with relatively long legs that are ‘pawfect’ for adventuring!

Thanks to their poodle ancestry, the cockapoo benefits from a long coat that’s more likely to be curly than wavy. Although cockapoos don’t moult as much as other longhaired dog breeds, their coat still requires frequent grooming to stay in tip top condition.

In terms of the coat colours usually seen in the cockapoo breed, they can be:

• Golden or cream
• Apricot (a golden-orange colour).
• Red (orange-brown).
• Brown or chocolate.
• Black.
• Black and tan (pale brown).
• Black and white.
• White.
• Sable (hair with pale roots and darker ends).
• Blue merle (pale grey base with darker mottled/dappled patches).
• Tri-colour (black, white, and tan).

Plus, cockapoos can have an array of different markings, from white patches to any coat colour in a roan pattern (mottled white over a base coat colour).

Typical cockapoo temperament

Cockapoos are the adorable teddy bears of the dog world! Not only do they enjoy snuggling up on the sofa, but they also love nothing more than to join you on all your adventures.

Whether you’re going to the beach, hiking, or exploring somewhere new, your cockapoo will want to be with you – they may suffer from separation anxiety if left alone.

Being so good natured and friendly, cockapoos often thrive as part of an active family. However, it’s important they’re introduced safely to other pets and children, since cockapoos are known to become excitable at times and need ample positive reinforcement to learn to stay calm.

Since they’re so intelligent, cockapoos are fantastic to train – though keep in mind that due to being a crossbreed, their traits aren’t as predictable as those of pedigree dogs.

As a high-energy breed, the cockapoo requires at least an hour or two of exercise daily, alongside mental stimulation activities to keep them busy throughout the day. Cockapoos are also excellent at sports, such as agility, that test their athleticism and intelligence.

Cockapoo health conditions

It’s not unusual for dogs to be prone to certain health concerns depending on the health of their parents, and cockapoos are no exception. Here are a few health conditions commonly seen in the cockapoo:

• Ear infections.
• Hip dysplasia.
• Eye problems (like conjunctivitis).

Remember: Keep an eye out for any health issues your cockapoo may develop, and get your canine companion checked by a vet if you have any concerns.

Fun facts about cockapoos

Fact 1 – Providing they’re properly groomed, cockapoos don’t have a strong ‘doggy’ odour!

Fact 2 – Cockapoos are popular with pet parents who are sensitive to dog hair, since they produce minimal amounts of dander (skin cells that pets shed naturally).

Fact 3 – While they might bark loudly at times, cockapoos aren’t known for barking excessively.

Fact 4 – Many pet parents find their cockapoos to be born entertainers, because they love to show off and make people laugh!

Fact 5 – Once they’ve been properly trained, cockapoos can become incredible assistance dogs, thanks to their intelligence and sociable nature.