Mini Cockapoo: Pictures, Temperament & Traits
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The Mini Cockapoos is an adorable hybrid breed of a Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle, and their charm is like that of a fluffy and cuddlesome teddy bear. This designer dog is one of the originals and has been around for some time, earning it a few names such as the Spoodle and Cockapoodle. They are a popular choice for a family dog because of their high energy and people-oriented unconditional love.
| Height: | 11-14 inches |
| Weight: | 12-20 pounds |
| Lifespan: | 14-18 years |
| Colors: | White, black, cream, apricot, chocolate, red |
| Suitable for: | Families with children and pets |
| Temperament: | Attentive, fun, loving, sociable, energetic |
Their gorgeous coat comes in a variety of colors and needs regular grooming and brushing, but their sweet and charming temperament makes it a chore that you look forward to, where you will both revel in the affection.
If the irresistibly cute and delightful first impression of the Mini Cockapoo has piqued your interest, then read on to discover more about this charming little pooch.
Mini Cockapoo Puppies – Before You Bring One Home…
3 Little-Known Facts About Mini Cockapoos
1. The Cockapoos coat comes in a variety of colors that can change over time
A Cockapoos coat can come in various colors, and some are unusual and rare. But what’s fascinating is that their coat color can change. The poodle part of their genetics gives them the fading gene, which will make solid coats fade and become multi-colored. Black puppies can turn grey, and tawny coats can turn white in some areas.
2. The Cockapoo is one of the oldest known designer breeds
The Cockapoo has been a popular breed in the U.S since the 1960s. Although the first hybrid puppy was accidental, it became famous for its cute and lovable nature.
3. Cockapoos come in three sizes
There are three sizes of Cockapoos, categorized by height measured from the paws to the shoulders. The three sizes are Toy, Mini, and Standard.
Temperament & Intelligence of the Mini Cockapoo 🧠
Mini cockapoos are bred and owned more for their personalities than their appearance. Each of their parent breeds’ traits makes for a friendly, lovable, and enthusiastic breed. Their happiness is infectious, and their love is unconditional.
The cocker spaniel and poodle are both working dogs, which means the Cockapoo has high energy and is always up for some playtime. They are also highly intelligent, and with an eagerness to please their owner, they are easily trained.
Are These Dogs Good for Families? 🏡
Cockapoos are great companion dogs, extremely social, and love to be around other people. They are affectionate and will love everyone in their home. Their high energy levels make them great playmates for children.
Does This Breed Get Along with Other Pets? 🐶😽
Cockapoos get along well with other dogs and may even be one of the best choices for a multi-dog family due to their sweet and loving personalities. Positive reinforcement training can help prevent aggression, whining, and barking when socializing Cockapoos with other dogs.
Fortunately, socializing these puppies is usually quite simple. Though every dog has their own personality, the typical Cockapoo enjoys attention and interaction with other people and animals.
Things to Know When Owning a Mini Cockapoo
Food & Diet Requirements 🦴
A Cockapoos diet must be well-balanced and complete with protein, vitamins, and minerals. Protein is essential for muscle growth and to help prevent diseases. Calcium is vital for bone health, and fatty acids support a healthy immune system and neurological functions.
Rather than leaving food out all the time, it’s best to keep your Cockapoo in good shape and health by measuring its food and feeding it twice a day.
Exercise 🐕
The Mini Cockapoo is an active breed and requires 15 to 30 minutes of daily exercise. They like to keep their exercise varied, so they don’t become bored with the same daily exercise routine. You and your pup can enjoy various activities, from hiking to swimming, and social interactions at the park.
Mental stimulation is also essential, and interactive games can provide that while burning off energy.
Training 🦮
Min cockapoos are very easy to train, especially with the inherited intelligence from their Poodle parent, which is ranked #2 on the list of the most intelligent dog breeds. With a consistent and reward-based method, you can have your Cockapoo trained in no time. Cockapoos are very focused, especially on their owner, which makes them attentive trainees.
Socialization from an early age is key, and positive reinforcement will get a great response from your Cockapoo, who will adore your praise. Crate training should also be implemented as soon as you bring your Cockapoo home.
Grooming ✂️
The Cockapoo has a single, long coat with curls. Their coat is prone to matting and tangling, so it must be brushed daily. The fur should be trimmed 2 to 3 inches in length, and the hair around their eyes should be cut back so they can see. They should bathe about once every 2 months and shouldn’t be bathed more. Otherwise, you risk irritating the skin by interfering with the natural oils.
Because the floppy Cocker ears obstruct air circulation, they must be checked and cleaned every week to prevent ear infections. Regular teeth brushing will help remove tartar buildup and help prevent bad breath and gum disease.
The nails should be trimmed regularly if they don’t wear them down themselves. They are too long when you hear them tapping the floor when they walk.
Health and Conditions ❤️
Mini Cockapoos are typically very healthy dogs that can go on to live up to 18 years old. Regular exercise, high-quality nutrition, and keeping up with vet appointments are the simplest ways to keep your Cockapoo healthy.
When it comes to health concerns, your Cockapoo will be prone to the same conditions that its parents are prone to and may battle with some of the health concerns related to their breed.
Their health starts with their breeder, and it’s crucial to find a reputable breeder.
Mini Cockapoos are prone to some minor and major health conditions:
- Ear Infections
- Allergies
- Patellar Luxation
- Liver Disease
- Eye Conditions
- Hip Dysplasia
Minor Conditions:
- Ear Infections – The Cockapoo is susceptible to ear infections due to its floppy ears. If they are chronic, they can lead to vertigo and deafness, but keeping your dogs’ ears healthy can assist in preventing ear infections.
- Allergies – Cockapoos are sensitive to allergies. They may include skin allergies, allergies to food, and allergies triggered by airborne substances. Dietary changes, environmental changes, and medications can help to control and relieve allergies.
- Patellar Luxation – Patellar luxation is when the kneecap slips out of its groove, causing inflammation and pain. It can also be described as a dislocation of the knee. Most dogs will show signs while still pups, but it can manifest over their lifetime. It is commonly a genetic condition, but trauma can sometimes bring it on.
Serious Conditions:
- Liver Disease – Chronic active hepatitis and copper toxicosis are two types of liver disease that can affect the Cocker Spaniel. That means that your Cockapoo is also susceptible to the liver diseases.
- Eye Conditions – Progressive retinol atrophy is an inherited condition in Cockapoos where the retina starts to deteriorate and wear away. There is currently no treatment for this eye condition. Glaucoma and Cataracts are also hereditary conditions in Cockapoos, and both can lead to vision loss.
- Hip Dysplasia – Hip Dysplasia is a serious joint deformity causing problems with the hips that progressively becomes more painful as the dog ages.
Male vs Female
Like most animals, male and female Mini Cockapoos will differ in temperament and personality.
Male cockapoos love affection and are always eager to please and be around their owner. They are easy-going and playful and happily get along with other animals in the home. They are known to be less stubborn and more submissive than the female Cockapoos. They are also larger than the females, but the difference is not substantial and may even go unnoticed.
Although they still love attention and affection, females are more independent than their counterparts. They may be seen humping other dogs, people, or things, whether spayed or not, and that is something to keep in mind when choosing a gender. It is usually a sign of dominance because they love to be the boss. This alpha characteristic is another reason they may be harder to train than males, as they are less likely to follow your commands.
Intact Cockapoos will present more obvious and contrasting gender differences. An intact male will mark his territory by urinating and will attempt to mate with a female dog that may be close by. A female that has not been spayed will be in heat twice a year and may run away more frequently to look for a mate.
Final Thoughts
The Mini Cockapoo is a well-balanced family dog that is cute, sweet, easy to train, and respectful. While they are generally easy to look after and adapt well to any family, giving them the right care and attention is still important. They are prone to a few health conditions, but most dogs are, and they can go on to live long happy lives.
Choosing the right breeder is imperative, and you must provide a well-balanced and complete diet, regular exercise, grooming, and plenty of love. If you are looking for a more submissive Cockapoo, then a male will be the best companion, and if you are looking for a dog with a bit more independence, then a female would be ideal.
Featured Image Credit: Joe Caione, Unsplash
