Did you know this about Cockapoos

You can’t walk far without seeing a Cockapoo.  They have certainly boomed over the past decade and are a very popular choice for a pet.  They come from breeding a Cocker Spaniel with a Poodle and were originally known as a Cockadoodle  - but I guess that name just wasn’t as catchy as a Cockapoo. However, they can differ in size, down to the different sizes of Poodles so be aware if you are thinking of buying one. They can also be more of a Cocker Spaniel than a Poodle, or the other way around, just depends on their family tree.  Plus there is a also what is called an F2 Cockapoo which is achieved by breeding 2 Cockapoos – if unsure just check out the parents. There are some fun facts and things you may not know about this amazing breed.

Friendly and Smart

If you have a Cockapoo or come across one, you will see straight away just how friendly they are. They love to greet people as soon as they see them, they will greet you after 10 minutes away the same as if they haven’t seen you all day.  If you want a shadow, you will certainly get on with a Cockapoo, they will never be far away from you as you go about your daily life.  They will keep you company, curled up next to you as you enjoy your favourite film or programme of an evening.  A great addition to any family.

Their friendly and loving temperament makes them a popular choice for therapy dogs or a great choice for someone who is a little nervous of dogs and anyone who wants good company! But be aware, they can suffer from separation anxiety, so not a wise choice if you are planning to leave them for many hours every day.

Most dogs can be taught to sit, lie down, give paw and you can expect nothing less from your Cockapoo, but there is a lot more that you can do with them. They thrive on being taught more complex tricks and will easily pick up more than 20 different tricks.  They have even been known to learn dance routines and demonstrate that they love every minute.  Experiment and enjoy teaching them tricks.

Active and Bouncy

We all know dogs need walking and exercise and Cockapoos don’t need excessive walking, an hour a day all at once or split into two thirty minutes sessions, will keep them active.  You will, however, notice how buoyant they are and how they walk with a spring in their step.  They certainly are an energetic dog which you can keep active with walking, teaching them tricks and using interactive and stimulating toys.  If not, they will just want you to constantly play with them – although as with any breed, there are always more chilled Cockapoos than others. Some owners say they never lose their puppy personality. 

They don’t rest easily as they love to be on the go, so it is a wise to get them into a routine where they are encouraged to rest and sleep.  Make a quiet space for them where they can do just that with little or no stimulation – many swear by using a crate for this as this gives them their safe and secure space to rest.

Health and Wellbeing

There some key points to consider and be aware of when you have a Cockapoo:-

Fresh Breath – if you want to be able to kiss and cuddle them without getting a nasty surprise, keep their teeth clean.  Smaller dogs are renowned for tartar build up on their teeth that causes bad breath, and Cockpoos are no exception.  Get straight into the routine of brushing their teeth daily to prevent tartar build up and get their teeth checked regularly at the vet.  Doing this will prevent that dreaded dog breath and instead you can enjoy all the sloppy kisses they love to give.

Shedding – they are known for being a breed that doesn’t shed, and therefore many refer to them as hypoallergenic which can be great for people with allergies.  Cockapoos can come with different hair types, from curly to soft waves, right through to almost straight.  They won’t completely not shed, so if you have allergies, it is worth visiting someone with a Cockapoo just to check.  Some people find they are fine with a curly coat and less fine with a long straighter coat.  It is essential to have them regularly groomed and cut to keep their locks free from tangles and on top form.

Ears – one of the most attractive features of a Cockapoo is their cute floppy ears and how they move them when you speak to them. The downfall is, this means that their ears need extra care.  They can easily become prone to ear infections and can become sore and irritable.  It is wise to check their ears regularly and get your vet to show you how to clean them each month to stop them getting clogged up and at risk of infection.  Have a chat with your dog groomer and make sure that they clip away as much excess hair by their ears as possible.

Coat colours – they come in all different colours, from apricot, white, black and multicolours.  Some have a little white socks, and a good majority have a little white patch on their chest.  You can’t always tell by looking at the parents what colour they will be, but be rest assured they are all cute and will all require grooming.  Some of the vibrant colours, such as apricot can fade, so don’t get too disappointed.

Getting Hooked on Cockapoos

No matter what dogs you have had before, if you get a Cockapoo they will certainly melt your heart.  They are cute, bubbly, little bundles of fun who will light up your day and make you feel special.  A popular breed which isn’t going away but here to enjoy and to be loved.