The cockapoo, also known as the Poodle, is a hybrid dog breed of US origin. As such, it is not classified by any international dog breed association and has no defined or set pedigree standards. It is a small—to medium-sized energetic dog breed, born in the 1950s from a refined cross between a Tibetan Spaniel, an English Cocker Spaniel, and a Poodle.
Today, it is widespread in many countries but is most successful in Australia, New Zealand, and Switzerland, where the leading breeders are concentrated. Its friendly, tame character and high propensity for human relations have made it popular as a companion dog. So, let’s get to know this friendly furry friend better and discover the traits that best define his personality.
General description
It is a brilliant, sweet, friendly and easily trainable dog. It loves the company of humans to whom it becomes very easily attached, and it is docile and tame even with other dogs and pets. Although docile, the poodle is energetic, exuberant, and playful. It runs, jumps, and plays almost continuously, so it needs a lot of daily exercise.
Its most significant character asset is that it tries to get along with everyone, making it an ideal dog for children. He rarely appears angry, aggressive, or shy of contact. On the contrary, he is a loyal and obedient companion who constantly tries to please his master.
Appearance and Attributes of the Cockapoo
As a small to medium-sized dog, it weighs between 5 and 9 kg on average, although it is not uncommon to see larger, heavier specimens. Some can weigh up to 30 kg. Consequently, before adopting or buying one, it is essential to be well-informed about the actual size the puppy might take on as an adult.
Depending on cross-breeding and dominant genetic traits, the size of this breed can, in some cases, vary considerably. Height at withers usually does not exceed 35-38 cm. It has a rounded head, a relatively long and well-defined muzzle, dark eyes, and long, drooping ears.
The build of this dog is well-proportioned. The chest is developed, and the legs are straight and agile. Some can be ‘mini’, like the Cocker Spaniel; others are much taller. This dog breed’s most striking aesthetic feature is its thick, slightly wavy or curled, soft, and silky coat, reminiscent of the American Cocker.
Colours range from black to beige to golden brown, apricot, and fawn in all possible shades. Some specimens have darker spots on the belly, paws, ears, or under the tail. As a result of a cross with the Poodle, moulting is almost non-existent, and it is one of the breeds of dogs that do not shed hair and are, therefore, suitable for people allergic to dog hair.
Despite this, the dense coat requires frequent grooming, making it challenging for those with little time or limited home space.
Physical characteristics permitted by the standard:
- Height: 35 to 38 cm
- Weight: 5 to 9 kg
- Longevity: 12 to 15 years
- Colour: black, beige, golden-brown, apricot, fawn
- Fur: dense, straight, hard, short, long
- Coat: one-tone, two-tone, double coat
Price
The price of a puppy is not comparable to that of a Poodle (which can be as high as 1500) because there is no defined breed standard. However, the average price of a puppy ranges between 500 and 1000 pounds.
education and care
If cared for and fed correctly, this dog is very hardy and has a reasonable life expectancy. On average, 12-15 years.
It must be vigorously brushed at least two or three times a week to keep its coat healthy and shiny, and, like all pets, it must undergo regular vaccinations and veterinary check-ups.
Dog care that should never be neglected includes:
- Thorough cleaning of the ears with a soft napkin to avoid inflammation and infection
- Inspection and cleaning of the eyes
- Teeth cleaning 3-4 times a week
- Clipping once a year
- Cleaning and checking claws
Significant is the focus on nutrition, which must always be healthy and balanced and include a specific diet to maintain the well-being of muscles and bones.
Indeed, the needs of this dog are:
- Activities such as dog fitness and games are ideal daily practices.
- Companionship: if neglected or isolated, he tends to get sad and express his displeasure by showing offence.
As one of these small dogs, it adapts well to a balanced life in size and habits. It is undoubtedly not noisy, although energetic and prone to play. It tends not to require large spaces and, if well-educated from puppyhood, is obedient and knows how to stay quiet and calm in its place.
Cockapoo breed puppy
These dogs are sensitive, playful, and affectionate from their first months of life. Indeed, they always want to play inside and outside the home, which implies a lot of patience and athletic and rigorous training to avoid excessive behavioural exuberance.
In any case, they lend themselves from puppyhood to being easily trained and rarely cause trouble. When the puppy does something wrong, it would be a good idea to reprimand it authoritatively, but not violently, and to walk away for a few moments, giving it time to reflect on what has happened.
In any case, it is best to avoid excessive rigour and punishment: the cooperative and obedient nature that characterises this breed must be enhanced with positive reinforcement techniques and rewards.
Cockapoo breed toy
The size can be truly ‘mini’ in specimens with dominant Poodle genetic traits. In this case, the appearance will be very similar to that of toy dogs: well-proportioned, curly, soft fur, slightly almond-shaped eyes, and a ‘sly’ look.
The ideal dog for those looking for a four-legged friend with whom to share a small space, easy to look after and above all, sunny, affectionate and great company. It tends to stay perpetually close to its owner, so finding a moment of privacy may prove impossible! Protect animals from the cold: having a coat for daily outings in the winter is best.
Cockapoo breeding
The 9 Best Cockapoo Breeders in the UK
- Lawford Doodles.
- Packington Puppies, UK.
- Syml Cockapoos.
- Henry Pooches UK.
- Glendream Doodles, Scotland.
- Lynton Cockapoos.
- Just Dogz.
- Risdon Farm Dogs.
Please beware of the parallel market via the web: relying on an authorised, serious and certified dealer is better than running into a scam or encouraging the illegal trafficking of animals and puppies.
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