Cockapoo
Updated December 1, 2025
Cockapoos are affectionate, playful, and adaptable dogs that combine the best traits of the Cocker Spaniel and Poodle. They’re great for families, first-time pet owners, and apartment living.
Affectionate, Playful, Intelligent, Friendly, Loyal
10-24 pounds
9-15 inches
12-15 years
Black, White, Cream, Apricot, Red, Chocolate, Tan, Merle, Parti-color
At a Glance
Good with Kids
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About Cockapoo
Cockapoos are affectionate, playful, and adaptable dogs that combine the best traits of the Cocker Spaniel and Poodle. They’re great for families, first-time pet owners, and apartment living.
What Makes Cockapoos Special
Cockapoos are friendly and adaptable dogs that combine the intelligence of Poodles with the affectionate nature of Cocker Spaniels.
They are loyal companions that love attention and are well-suited for families, seniors, and individuals alike.
Cockapoo History & Origin
The Cockapoo is one of the oldest designer dog breeds, developed in the 1950s in the United States by crossing Cocker Spaniels and Poodles.
First intentionally bred in the 1950s in the U.S.
Originally created to combine the hypoallergenic coat of the Poodle with the sweet personality of the Cocker Spaniel.
Their popularity led to a growing demand, resulting in multigenerational Cockapoos (Cockapoo × Cockapoo).
Cockapoo Characteristics
Dogs are individuals and not all dogs, even those of the same breed, will exhibit all the same qualities.
Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Grooming Needs
Training Needs
Health Issues
Shedding Level
Cockapoo Appearance
Cockapoos have a soft, teddy bear-like appearance with expressive eyes and a round face.
Their coat varies from loose waves to tight curls depending on genetics and grooming.
Physical Features
Ears
Long and covered in curls or waves
Eyes
Dark, round, and full of expression
Nose
Black or brown and prominent
Coat & Build
Coat Length
Medium length, curly or wavy
Coat Color
Comes in nearly any color including solid, parti, or merle patterns
Tail
Carried high, may be natural or docked
Cockapoo Temperament
Cockapoos are friendly and happy dogs that love being part of the family. They thrive on human interaction and are known for their loving nature.
These dogs enjoy playtime, whether it’s fetch or tug-of-war, and adapt well to most living environments, including apartments.
Cockapoos are intelligent and easy to train. Their eagerness to please and positive demeanor make them a good choice for first-time dog owners.
They get along well with children, other pets, and strangers, making them sociable and well-rounded companions.
Cockapoos are known to be emotionally intuitive and are often used as therapy dogs due to their calm and loving behavior.
Temperament Traits
Good With
Health
Cockapoos are generally healthy dogs with a long lifespan but can inherit health issues from parent breeds.
Common Health Issues
Preventive Care
Routine vet checkups, ear cleaning, quality diet, and regular exercise
How to Care for a Cockapoo
Cockapoos are low-shedding and relatively low-maintenance but still require regular grooming and moderate daily exercise to stay healthy and happy.
Grooming
Brush your Cockapoo every few days to prevent matting and tangling, especially in curly-coated individuals.
Cockapoos benefit from regular grooming appointments every 6-8 weeks for trimming and hygiene care.
Regular ear cleaning is important as their floppy ears can trap moisture, leading to infections.
Brush their teeth several times a week and trim nails monthly.
Training
Cockapoos are intelligent and eager to please, which makes them easy to train.
Use positive reinforcement with treats, toys, and praise.
Early socialization and basic obedience training will help them grow into confident and well-behaved dogs.
Diet
Feed a balanced and age-appropriate diet, and monitor for signs of allergies or weight gain.
Divide their food into two meals per day, and avoid feeding them table scraps to prevent obesity.
Exercise
They need moderate daily exercise like two 20–30 minute walks and some indoor play.
Include fetch, agility games, and interactive toys to keep their minds engaged.
Environment
Cockapoos adapt well to both apartments and houses, as long as their social and exercise needs are met.
They crave human attention and can develop separation anxiety if left alone for long hours.
A stimulating environment with regular companionship is ideal.
Living Conditions
Space Requirements
Minimal space needs, suitable for apartments
Climate Adaptability
Does well in temperate climates
Apartment Living
Highly suitable
Best Suited For
Best for owners who spend time at home or work remotely
Training Tips
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Cockapoos hypoallergenic?
While no dog is truly hypoallergenic, Cockapoos are low-shedding and may be suitable for allergy sufferers.
Do Cockapoos get along with kids and other pets?
Yes, Cockapoos are very friendly and typically do well with children and other animals.
How often should I groom my Cockapoo?
Brush every few days and schedule grooming every 6–8 weeks.
Are Cockapoos easy to train?
Yes, they are intelligent and respond well to positive reinforcement.
Can Cockapoos live in apartments?
Absolutely. They adapt well to apartment living as long as they get daily exercise and attention.
Specialized Care Guides
Puppy Care
Early socialization and crate training are beneficial
Senior Care
Monitor joint health and adjust diet and exercise accordingly
First-Time Owner Tips
Excellent choice due to their manageable size and temperament
Looking for a Cockapoo?
Connect with responsible breeders, rescue organizations, and pet adoption services in your area.