Cockapoo vs. Mini Goldendoodle: The Differences (With Pictures)

Cockapoos and Miniature Goldendoodles are two popular dog breeds that are sought after due to their small sizes and cute appearance. Cockapoos are typically a mixed breed that crosses a Cocker Spaniel and a Miniature Poodle. Cockapoos are considered by some to be the first “designer mixed breed.” Miniature Goldendoodles are a mixture between a Miniature (or Toy) Poodle and a Golden Retriever.

Both of these breeds are small, compact, and have cute curly hair-like fur. But what exactly are the biggest differences between the Cockapoo and the Mini Goldendoodle? This guide will cover all of the key differences between these popular breeds so that you can make a decision about which breed could be right for you.

 

Visual Differences

At a Glance

 

Cockapoo Overview

Cockapoos were bred as companion dogs and were one of the first mixed breeds to kick off the “designer” dog breed craze. In that way, the Cockapoo was the predecessor to the Goldendoodle. Today, Cockapoos remain very popular due to their diminutive size, fun personality, and intelligence. Cockapoos are very similar to Goldendoodles, but there are some key differences in their energy levels and their overall size.

Exercise

Cockapoos do not typically need a lot of exercise. Young Cockapoos will need more exercise than adult or aging Cockapoos. Cockapoos only need between 15 minutes and an hour of exercise per day, which is considerably less than some other dog breeds. If you are looking for a dog with lower exercise needs that is happy laying around, then you might want to consider the Cockapoo.

Personality

Cockapoos were bred primarily for their temperament rather than any specific function or appearance. These dogs are very friendly, sweet, and intelligent. They thrive on social interaction and will love nothing more than to be around you or the family all of the time. That makes these dogs amazing family dogs, and they are fantastic around children and other dogs.

Training

Cockapoos are very trainable. Both Cocker Spaniels and Poodles are intelligent dog breeds, and the Cockapoo inherits much of this intelligence. In addition to being smart, Cockapoos are people pleasers. Any dog that is eager to please their owner or spends a lot of time near their people observing and learning their behaviors is easier to train than dogs that are less in tune with their human companions. This combination makes Cockapoos very trainable. They can learn a host of words, commands, and even tricks if you spend the time teaching them.

Size

Cockapoos are typically a little smaller than Miniature Goldendoodles. Goldendoodles have a very wide size range, and even the minis can get pretty large. That is because Golden Retrievers are such large dogs compared to Cocker Spaniels and Miniature Poodles. Cockapoos rarely grow over 30 pounds in weight, while Mini Goldendoodles can easily surpass 30 pounds. The small size of the Cockapoo also gives them an excellent lifespan. These dogs, when healthy, can easily live to be 15 years old or older.

Suitable For:

Cockapoos are suitable for a wide range of people. They make great family dogs and excellent companions. Their sweet personality, easygoing attitude, and intelligence make them very versatile and sociable. Cockapoos are likely not great for people looking to exercise with their dogs or take them on long physical adventures. Cockapoos also do not like to be left alone for long periods of time, so they might not be great for people who work long hours or are not home often.

Mini Goldendoodle Overview

The Miniature Goldendoodle is a cross between a Miniature Poodle and a Golden Retriever. This is the middle size of the Goldendoodle trio, which includes Standard Goldendoodles (the largest) and Toy Goldendoodles (the smallest and rarest.) Miniature Goldendoodles are quite a bit smaller than Standard Goldendoodles, but they are not as small as people imagine. Goldendoodles are currently the most popular “designer” crossbreed that has taken the world by storm.

Exercise

Mini Goldendoodles require quite a bit of exercise, especially when compared to Cockapoos. Mini Goldendoodles will do best with a minimum of one hour of exercise per day, but some individual dogs might need more. Goldendoodles can be very energetic, and if they do not let their energy out in constructive ways, they can grow restless and mischievous.

Personality

Mini Goldendoodles have very warm personalities. Both Poodles and Golden Retrievers are known for being friendly and fun dogs. Goldendoodles are no different. Goldendoodles have been hailed as the perfect family dog as they love people, love other dogs, and get a kick out of hanging with the family and playing with their owners. Mini Goldendoodles are playful, curious, and intelligent. People really enjoy the Miniature variety of Goldendoodle for their small stature, which packages the great personality of a Standard Goldendoodle into a more manageable size.

Training

Mini Goldendoodles are very trainable. Both Poodles and Golden Retrievers are very intelligent and eager to please, and the Goldendoodle is no different. Mini Goldendoodles have the potential to learn a whole host of things, from words to commands. Goldendoodles can learn and recognize up to 250 different words, which is quite a lot. It is important to note that Goldendoodles learn and train best when their energy levels are well-managed.

Size

Mini Goldendoodles are a bit larger than Cockapoos. The miniature designation makes people think of dogs smaller than the Mini Goldendoodle actually is. Many Mini Goldendoodles are actually medium-sized dogs. They can stand nearly 18 inches in height and weigh 30–40 pounds. Some of the smaller varieties can be as light as 25 pounds, but that is not the most common. If you are looking for a traditional “small dog,” you might want to consider a Cockapoo over a Mini Goldendoodle.

Suitable For:

Mini Goldendoodles are perfect for families or people looking for a friendly and intelligent companion. A Mini Goldendoodle will be more suitable for people looking for an active dog that likes to be out and about or likes to exercise more. Goldendoodles typically require more exercise and engagement than Cockapoos. People will also enjoy the size of the Mini Goldendoodle if they find Standard Goldendoodles too large or Cockapoos too small. These are a middling size that is not too large or too small while keeping the overall personality and intelligence of the Goldendoodle.

 

Which Breed Is Better for People With Allergies?

Both Mini Goldendoodles and Cockapoos are labeled as dogs that are good for people with allergies. That is because Poodle hair is considered to be more hypoallergenic than typical dog fur. However, no dog is truly hypoallergenic, and these dogs still have the potential to trigger a person’s dog allergy. Cockapoos might have a small edge over Mini Goldendoodles simply because they are typically smaller. Both Cockapoos and Goldendoodles have very similar coats and shed a similar amount which makes the differences negligible in most situations.

Which Breed Is Better for Families?

The answer to this question will depend on what kind of family you have. If you have a large active family with a lot going on, including people coming and going, lots of play, and outdoor activities, the family might enjoy a Mini Goldendoodle. If you have a quieter family that enjoys lying on the couch and watching movies together more than you like going for a run, then you might prefer a Cockapoo. Both Mini Goldendoodles and Cockapoos are excellent family dogs that get along with kids and other pets most of the time, so both of these breeds can integrate into nearly any family.

Which Breed Is More Expensive to Buy?

Mini Goldendoodles are typically more expensive than Cockapoos. The average cost of a Mini Goldendoodle is around $1,800, with prices ranging from $1,500 to $3,500. Cockapoos are a little cheaper. The average cost of a Cockapoo is about $1,200, with prices ranging between $800 and $2,000. Prices can vary depending on the reputation and location of the breeder. Neither Mini Goldendoodles nor Cockapoos are commonly found at the shelter or with rescue groups. The most reliable way to get a Goldendoodle or a Cockapoo is to go through a reputable breeder. Just be prepared for the costs.

 

 

Which Breed Is Right for You?

Regarding comparison, the Cockapoo and Mini Goldendoodle are very similar. In fact, these two mixed breeds are some of the most common dogs that you can find. That means that either one can conceivably be right for you and your family. Both of these dogs are pretty small, have similar curly coats, and are friendly, intelligent, cute, and trainable. Cockapoos are a little smaller and require less activity to satisfy them. Mini Goldendoodles are a bit larger, more expensive, and require more exercise and play. However, when it comes down to it, both of these dogs are similar enough that the differences are very minute. If you think you will enjoy a Cockapoo, you will likely also enjoy a Mini Goldendoodle.

See Also:

• Mini Goldendoodle vs Goldendoodle: The Differences (With Pictures)
• Cavapoo vs Goldendoodle: The Differences (with Pictures)

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Featured Image Credit: Left – Lee Ph, Shutterstock | Right – SoySendra, Shutterstock