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Cocker Spaniel × Poodle
Origin: United States
Weight
6–30 lbs (varies by Poodle size)
Height
10–15 inches
Lifespan
12–15 years
Coat
Wavy to curly
Breeder Cost
$1,000–$3,000
Adoption Cost
$100–$300
The Cockapoo is one of the oldest designer dog breeds, first appearing in the United States in the 1950s. They combine the Cocker Spaniel's gentle, happy nature with the Poodle's intelligence and low-shedding coat. Cockapoos are adaptable, affectionate, and wonderful with children and other pets. Their small-to-medium size makes them ideal apartment dogs.
Best For
Apartment dwellers, families with children, allergy sufferers, first-time owners
Cockapoos need 30–60 minutes of moderate exercise daily. They enjoy walks, fetch, and play sessions. Their adaptable nature means they adjust well to their owner's activity level.
The Cockapoo's wavy or curly coat requires brushing 3–4 times weekly to prevent mats. Professional grooming every 6–8 weeks is essential.
Coat type: Wavy to curly; low-shedding
Cockapoos benefit from hybrid vigor but can inherit health issues from either parent. Buy from breeders who health-test both parents for PRA and hip dysplasia.
Ear Infections
Inherited from the Cocker Spaniel side. Weekly ear cleaning is essential.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Inherited from both parent breeds. DNA testing of parents is important.
Hip Dysplasia
Inherited from both parent breeds. Buy from breeders who OFA-certify both parents.
Patellar Luxation
Common in small-to-medium breeds.
Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia
Inherited from the Cocker Spaniel side.
The Cockapoo is one of the oldest designer breeds, first appearing in the US in the 1950s — predating the designer dog craze by decades. They were created by crossing Cocker Spaniels with Poodles to combine the Cocker's gentle temperament with the Poodle's low-shedding coat. Unlike many designer breeds, Cockapoos have been bred long enough that multi-generational breeding produces relatively consistent results.
The Cockapoo is one of the oldest designer breeds — they first appeared in the US in the 1950s.
They are sometimes called 'the original doodle' — predating the Labradoodle by over 30 years.
Cockapoos are one of the few designer breeds with dedicated breed clubs working toward formal AKC recognition.
Their temperament combines the Cocker Spaniel's gentle sweetness with the Poodle's intelligence and trainability.
Multi-generational Cockapoos (CockaPoo x CockaPoo) produce more consistent coat and temperament than first-generation crosses.
Owning a Cockapoo is a long-term financial commitment. Here's a realistic breakdown of what to budget for.
Annual Cost
$1,000–$2,000
First Year (incl. setup)
$2,500–$4,500
Small to medium portions; quality food important
Ear infections, eye conditions, and patellar luxation possible
Curly coat needs professional grooming every 6–8 weeks
Eager to please and highly trainable; a joy to train
Puzzle toys for this intelligent hybrid
Recommended for ear and orthopedic coverage
* Estimates based on national averages. Costs vary by location, lifestyle, and individual health needs. Emergency vet visits are not included.
Estimated US Population
~500,000 in the US
Adoption Trend
Cockapoos are one of the oldest designer breeds and have maintained steady popularity. Their small size, low-shedding coat, and cheerful personality make them excellent apartment dogs. The UK has seen particularly strong Cockapoo growth, with dedicated breed clubs working toward formal recognition.
Use the guides below to compare practical options alongside this breed's care needs.
The right technology makes dog ownership easier, safer, and more connected — whether you're home or away. These are the products our editors consider must-haves for every dog owner.
Automatic Feeder
Schedule precise meals so your dog eats right — even when you're not home.
GPS Tracker
Real-time location tracking — because dogs follow their nose, not the fence line.
Pet Camera
Two-way audio and HD video — stay connected and soothe your dog from anywhere.
Robot Vacuum
Built for pet hair — keeps your home clean without lifting a finger.
Products marked with SmartPaws Recommended are ones we've independently reviewed and recommend across the site. All Amazon links include our affiliate tag — purchases support SmartPaws at no extra cost to you.
Interactive Toy
KONG Classic Stuffable Dog Toy
Mental stimulation for an intelligent, playful breed.
SmartPaws RecommendedDental Care
Oxyfresh Premium Pet Dental Water Additive
Small breeds need daily dental care — water additive is the easiest solution.
SmartPaws RecommendedSmart Feeder
PETLIBRO Smart Feeder with Camera
Consistent meal scheduling helps Cockapoos maintain healthy weight and energy levels.
SmartPaws RecommendedPet Camera
Furbo 360° Dog Camera
Cockapoos are social and hate being alone — Furbo lets you check in and toss a treat to ease separation anxiety.
SmartPaws RecommendedTemperament
Climate & Physical
Compatibility
Rural & Outdoor
Scores reflect breed tendencies. Individual training significantly affects both livestock safety and off-leash reliability.
Based on breed-specific genetic health risks and common conditions
Many Cockapoos are waiting in shelters and breed-specific rescues. Adoption costs are typically $100–$300 vs. $1,000–$3,000 from a breeder.
Read our Rescue Guide →Get a printable PDF with traits, cost of ownership, health notes, and best-fit summary — free.