Is a Cockapoo a Good Family Dog? Vet-Reviewed Facts & FAQ
Updated on
Cockapoos are one of the oldest “designer dog” breeds in the U.S. Several sources trace the breed’s origins back to the 1960s. Most cockapoos have an adorably curly coat and a friendly disposition. Are these dogs as charming as they look?
Yes, a cockapoo can be a great pet for the right family. Learn more about this breed to decide if a cockapoo could be your next pet.
Are Cockapoos Purebred or Mixed Breed?
The American Kennel Club (AKC) considers Cockapoos a mixed breed. All cockapoos have cocker spaniel and poodle ancestors, but the percentage of each breed varies. There are endless variations between the two breeds.
First-generation cockapoos have one cocker spaniel parent and one poodle parent, but some cockapoos may have two cockapoo parents.
How Big Do Adult Cockapoos Get?
Adult cockapoos can be as little as 12 pounds or as large as 65 pounds. The size of the poodle parent (or poodle-dominant parent) influences the size of the offspring. The best indication of how large a cockapoo puppy will be is to see both parents.
Are Cockapoos Good with Kids?
Cockapoos have a reputation for tolerating children and loving physical affection but this should not be assumed and they should always be monitored with children. Overall, it is a playful and happy breed. Cockapoos with toy poodle heritage are on the smaller side and more dainty. Children must be taught how to read dog body language and to appropriately interact with any dog.
Is It Easy to Train a Cockapoo?
Cocker spaniels and poodles are known for their intelligence and eagerness to please their owners. Most cockapoos inherit these traits from their parents. Like all dogs, cockapoos benefit from consistent training life long.
How Much Is a Cockapoo Puppy?
You can expect to pay anywhere from $900 to $3,800 if you purchase a cockapoo puppy from a breeder. Our research of cockapoo breeders across the country showed that size and color usually affect the price. Some breeders charge more for toy cockapoos and rarer colors like red and apricot.
Do Cockapoos Shed?
The breed as a whole is low shedding as the loose hairs tend to get trapped in the curls. Poodles are known for shedding very little, and most cockapoos seem to inherit the trait. However, a cockapoo may shed more if its ancestry is more cocker spaniel than poodle.
All cockapoos benefit from brushing several days a week. Those with longer hair need regular grooming visits to keep their fur tidy and manageable.
Are Cockapoos Hypoallergenic?
Some breeders and cockapoo enthusiasts claim that the breed is hypoallergenic. Those allergic to pets may experience no symptoms or reduced symptoms when around low-shedding dogs like cockapoos but this is by no means a certainty. However, there is no such thing as a 100% hypoallergenic dog.
Dog hair is not the only irritant that can trigger allergies. Most allergic people are actually allergic to a protein found in dog saliva, dander and urine. There are no guarantees that someone with a dog allergy will be able to tolerate living with a cockapoo. If someone in your family is allergic to dogs, it’s wise to have them spend time with the cockapoo before you adopt or purchase them.
Do Cockapoos Need a Lot of Exercise?
Cockapoos need moderate daily exercise. A brisk walk once or twice a day is usually sufficient. Cockapoos will also enjoy indoor playtime and mental tasks, such as feeding puzzles or chew toys.
Do Cockapoos Bark a Lot?
Cockapoos are not known for being “yappy” or barking excessively. Cockapoos are usually an excellent choice if you share walls with your neighbors and need to keep the noise down. Most cockapoos have a bit of the watchdog instinct and will let you know if someone is at the door.
Do Cockapoos Like Other Dogs?
Cocker spaniels love canine companionship, poodles slightly less so. Most cockapoos can live happily with other pets as long as there is a proper and slow introduction.
Can You Leave a Cockapoo Alone During the Day?
Cocker spaniels and poodles have higher mental stimulation needs than average. Cockapoos may become bored and destructive if left home alone regularly. A long walk and some playtime before you leave can help your cockapoo be happy while you are gone.
Do All Cockapoos Have Curly Fur?
Most cockapoos inherit their poodle ancestors’ curly fur, but some have wavy hair. And yes, a cockapoo can have primarily straight hair, too, although this is more rare.
How Long Do Cockapoos Live?
Adding a cockapoo to your family is a long-term commitment. A cockapoo’s average lifespan is 12 to 15 years.
What Are the Cons of Owning a Cockapoo?
Some will view the genetic variations as a con. Cockapoos are available in every color, fur pattern, and size as the parents’ breeds. A cockapoo that is 75% toy poodle will look and behave differently than one that is 75% cocker spaniel. Observing their parents gives you a good indication of how a cockapoo puppy will look and behave. It has been anecdotally more common to see aggression in cockapoos in recent years. This may often be down to frustration, anxiety and poor socialization.
Final Thoughts
Cockapoos are a cross between poodles and cocker spaniels. As a mixed breed, cockapoos vary significantly in appearance. Their adult size depends on whether they have toy, miniature, or standard poodle ancestry. Cockapoos can make good family pets. They have moderate exercise needs, often do well with children, and can keep up with an active household. They are known for shedding very little but require frequent grooming to keep their coats healthy.
See also:
- How Big Does a Cockapoo Get? Average Weight & Growth Chart
- How to Potty Train a Cockapoo: 8 Tips & Tricks
Featured Image Credit: Joe Caione, Unsplash
