What is a Cockapoo?
Cockapoos are a cross breed between a Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle (usually toy or miniature).
Cockapoos (aka Cockerpoo, Cockerdoodle or Cockapoodle) became popular in the 1960s as the original “designer dog”. They earned this title for several reasons. Their size as a smaller dog in addition to minimal shedding makes them travel ready. Their intelligence and loyalty makes them trainable. Not least of all, Cockapoos are ridiculously cute.
However, their title as “designer dog” does not give the Cockapoo the justice they deserve as a family dog.
Cockapoos are playful, affectionate, smart, and just love being with you. They are typically great with kids and other animals.
Let’s break it down.
Cocker Spaniel
The American Cocker Spaniel is the smallest of the “Sporting” dog breeds. For a long time it was ranked the #1 dog in the US to own especially after the release of Disney’s Lady And The Tramp children’s movie. They are usually great with kids and have a sweet temperament. Originally, Cocker Spaniels were bred to be bird hunting dogs with a “soft mouth” and super smeller of a nose. They are hearty and can live a long time.
Poodle
Poodles were first bred as water fowl retrievers. In the 1600s they became popular among the nobility of Europe, especially France for their regal looks and intelligence. Shortly after this, poodles began to be bred down in size to miniature or toy as companions for wealthy families and ladies. The smaller poodles were coveted for loyalty, trainability and low shedding fur.
More recently, in the 1950s, Poodles were named the #1 dog to own in the US. Beloved for their fashionable walk, fun to style fur and affectionate personality.
Poodles typically are loyal, intelligent and fun, fun, fun! They bond closely with their owner and would prefer to be with them than anywhere else. In fact Poodles are considered one of the most intelligent breeds and are very intuitive, especially towards their owners.
Poodles have “non shedding” fur that is considered hypoallergenic which can be good for people with allergies. They typically are healthy and can have a long life.
Cockapoos; Why cross breed?
While purebred dogs carry specific desirable traits, they can also carry specific health issues. By “cross breeding” two breeds, the health issues that typically occur can be greatly minimized. Here are some health concerns to take into account when considering a cockapoo.
Crossing the playful, affectionate heartiness of the Cocker Spaniel with the low shedding, fun, loyal intelligence of the Poodle is a win win.
The result is the ever charming Cockapoo.





