Should We Get a Cockapoo?
In another of our Holiday4Dogs breed articles, we focus this time on the popular cockapoo. We take an in-depth look at the history, care and personality of these much-loved – and very popular – family companions.
Cockapoos – (also spelt ‘cockerpoo’) – have become extremely popular over the last decade and would-be dog owners are still finding them incredibly appealing. These fun-loving little cross-breed dogs are often chosen over their pure-bred counterparts.
Even though the breed is not officially recognised by the Kennel Club, its popularity means that everyone knows one when they see one. They are everywhere!
What are cockapoos crossed with?
The cockapoo, as the name suggests, is a cross between a miniature poodle and a cocker spaniel, although there are some crossed with standard poodles.
Both of these breeds have their good and bad points, so in theory, it can be a bit of a lottery. Spaniels are notoriously loopy and poodles have a reputation for being feisty and yappy.
Opinions can be divided on their suitability as family pets. They are made up of two different breeds, both of which typically require a lot of exercise and training.
Because they are not purebred, their appearance can differ. Therefore, puppies can vary in size, colour and coat type. Many have the appearance of cutesy teddy bears, but can take some serious strimming to keep them from looking like a grubby floor mop.
In addition, while they may look like the cutest, perfectly formed family pets, personalities can vary greatly in individual dogs.
While many make wonderful family companions – others can be complete lunatics and may not be for the faint-hearted.
History of the cockapoo
There is very little known about the history of this breed. However, there is some agreement that they were developed in the U.S. in the 1960s. They were bred to be companion dogs and regarded as one of the first examples of ‘designer dogs’.
Designer dogs are a deliberate cross-mating between two purebred dogs. In recent years, the popularity of these crosses has soared and cockapoos have been one of the most sought after.
The two breeds that make up a cockapoo have long histories. Cocker spaniels, the smallest of the working spaniels, were bred to hunt woodcock. However, like all Spaniels they are ‘busy’ dogs; always on the go and never seem to tire.
Spaniels need a lot of mental and physical stimulation to thrive. They are renowned for their unstoppable energy. And, as gundog, people will attest; ‘whilst the Labrador is born half-trained, the spaniel goes to his grave half-trained’
Poodles have a similar energy, but although originally bred to retrieve games, they haven’t done so for
decades. Only a handful of people in the UK work standard poodles in the field with some success.
You can read more about working poodles in a Holidays4Dogs interview with Dave Thomas from Clavidd working standard poodles, located in Wales – (pictured right).
With all this in mind, critics suggest that the idea of combining these two breeds to create the ideal family pet is somewhat of a misnomer.
Not only can these dogs be rather ‘Jekyll and Hyde’ in character, but there are real concerns for their health and welfare, due to poor breeding practices.
Cockapoo temperament
Make no mistake – these cute bundles of fluff are very active creatures. Being the product of two energetic breeds, they can be demanding dogs – especially in the hands of the novice owner. Cockapoos must have plenty to keep them active, both mentally and physically.
Training and socialization are important for any dog, but cockapoos most definitely need adequate early training to bring the best out in them. These gregarious dogs prefer wide open spaces and a busy outdoor life in the countryside. They are not couch potatoes and sitting still isn’t usually an activity on their radar.
However, cockerpoos are generally sweet and friendly dogs. They are small to medium-sized, so easy to take around too. Generally, these dogs are regarded as good pets for active families.
Cockapoo health
Taking care of a cockapoo is much the same as caring for any dog. They do tend to be susceptible to health issues found in the cocker spaniel and the poodle.
These include eye disorders and hip and knee problems. It is always wise to choose a puppy from health-tested parents. Many would-be owners of cockapoos do not realise that health screening is relevant for the breed.
The booming trade in designer cross-breed dogs has led to unscrupulous breeding practices. This means the welfare of the breed is at risk due to inherited diseases.
Are cockapoos hypoallergenic?
It is not the dog’s fur which causes allergies but the proteins secreted by the dog’s skin and this can happen with any dog.
Many unsuspecting people have bought cockerpoos without expecting them to cause an allergic reaction. It is one of the main reasons why these dogs end up in rescue kennels.
Conclusion
The cockerpoo, like many ‘designer dogs’, is essentially a mongrel (a very expensive one at the height of the pandemic puppy boom!). Temperament isn’t always as predictable as it might be with some other breeds. While they are as cute as teddy bears, they are not toys and can be quite demanding exercise-wise. However, cockerpoos can make engaging and unique companions – ready to join in with lots of family adventures.
