The term 'Cockapoo' is a generic name for several variations on a theme, of a cross-breed dog, depending on parentage - so it would be impossible to exact a "Breed Standard" on it.

 

A Cockapoo, which is the mix of Cocker Spaniel and Poodle, is generally accepted as loving; loyal; cuddly; fun; energetic and totally domesticated family pets.

 

The first and most important thing you should know is that Cockapoos, regardless of being an F1, F1b, F2, F3 can ALL vary in looks / coat type.  There are so many variations of the coat, no breeder can ever guarantee that you will get a curly coated pup AND that it will stay like that.

 

The coat type of the Cockapoo will vary as characteristics are inherited from both the poodle and the cocker spaniel.  There may even be some variety within a litter.  The three possible coat types are a tight curly coat, a loose wavy/ringlet coat and a straighter coat.

 

The texture of the Cockapoo coat usually consists of dense, soft or silky fur, unlike the coarser fur found on many dogs, and all three coat types of the F1 cockapoo will be low-shedding/dander with low-allergen qualities.

 

The Cockapoo bred back to a poodle, the F1b, is more likely to have a tight curly coat as there is more of the poodle in the gene pool.  Similarly, the Cockapoo bred back to a cocker spaniel may have a straighter coat.  The curlier coat types are generally less likely to shed any hair, usually depositing no hair at all on carpets and clothes, and only a small amount in the brush during grooming.  All Cockapoo coat types will need regular grooming to prevent matting and to keep the coat to the required length

 

One of the advantages of owning a Cockapoo is that they are hypoallergenic dogs; this means they are less likely to cause an allergic reaction in humans.  By bringing a hypoallergenic dog into your household you are reducing the risk of the dog triggering an allergic reaction.

 

Allergies to dogs are most commonly caused by a reaction to the dander (dead skin cells) that the dog produces, and not to the fur itself.  The dander and saliva sticks to the dog's fur and is released during the normal shedding process.  A hypoallergenic dog, therefore, will be one that produces less dander (or retains it).  The poodle has a low dander count and a low-non shedding coat, and these characteristics are inherited by the Cockapoo.  Many people with asthma and eczema are therefore able to live closely with a Cockapoo without being troubled by allergic symptoms at all.  However, those with allergies would be advised to spend time with an adult Cockapoo to test for an allergic response - we recommend you pay a visit to a breeder if you do not know of anyone with a Cockapoo.

 

It should be noted that no dog breed is 100% allergy friendly, but the Cockapoo with its low-shedding, low-dander coat comes pretty close.

 

Cockapoos are NOT suited for families/couples who work full time and want to leave their puppy for long periods of time alone.   Cockapoos are known for being a very sociable dog whom wants nothing more than the company of their owners or another dog

 

Cockapoos are active dogs, they enjoy walks and do well in training and agility classes.  They are highly intelligent dogs who require mental stimulation as well as long walks and the freedom of a park to run around in. They enjoy balls being thrown for them, cuddly toys to carry around in their mouths and games.  Cockapoos love to swim in rivers and the sea. They are also natural hunters so enjoy chasing birds, squirrels and wildlife - you have been warned, excellent recall is required! Cockapoos are problem solvers, never under estimate their intelligence. Although they are naturally active dogs, they also know how to chill down and cuddle up on your lap for hours on end