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Cockapoo
Mixed Breed Hypoallergenic

Cockapoo

Cocker Spaniel × Poodle

Origin: United States

AffectionatePlayfulGentleSociableHappy

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

Personality & Temperament

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

Exercise & Activity Needs

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.

Grooming & Coat Care

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

Common Health Conditions

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.

History & Origin

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.

Interesting Facts

  • 1

    The Cockapoo is one of the oldest designer breeds — they first appeared in the US in the 1950s.

  • 2

    They are sometimes called 'the original doodle' — predating the Labradoodle by over 30 years.

  • 3

    Cockapoos are one of the few designer breeds with dedicated breed clubs working toward formal AKC recognition.

  • 4

    Their temperament combines the Cocker Spaniel's gentle sweetness with the Poodle's intelligence and trainability.

  • 5

    Multi-generational Cockapoos (CockaPoo x CockaPoo) produce more consistent coat and temperament than first-generation crosses.

Cost of Ownership

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

Food$250–$450/yr

Small to medium portions; quality food important

Vet Care$300–$600/yr

Ear infections, eye conditions, and patellar luxation possible

Grooming$500–$1,000/yr

Curly coat needs professional grooming every 6–8 weeks

Training$150–$400 (first year)

Eager to please and highly trainable; a joy to train

Supplies & Toys$150–$300/yr

Puzzle toys for this intelligent hybrid

Pet Insurance$250–$500/yr

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.

Popularity & Adoption Trends

Estimated US Population

~500,000 in the US

Adoption Trend

rising

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.

Plan daily life with your Cockapoo

Use the guides below to compare practical options alongside this breed's care needs.

Pet Tech Essentials

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.

Breed Traits

Best forfamilies with kids · apartment living · first-time owners
Not idealowners away long hours · low-maintenance lifestyles
Positive for ownersNeeds managementInformational
Energy Level
Moderate
Trainability
High
Apartment OK
Very High
Kid-Friendly
Very High
Pet-Friendly
Very High
Affection Level
Very High
Grooming
High
Shedding
Very Low
Hypoallergenic — lower dander & allergen levels

Temperament

Barking
Moderate
Protective
Low
Sep. Anxiety
High
Stubbornness
Low
Noise Sensitive
Moderate

Climate & Physical

Heat Tolerance
Moderate
Cold Tolerance
Moderate
Water Affinity
Moderate
Drool Level
Very Low

Compatibility

Rural & Outdoor

Livestock Safe
High
Off-Leash Reliable
High

Scores reflect breed tendencies. Individual training significantly affects both livestock safety and off-leash reliability.

Dog Friendly
Very High
Cat Friendly
High
Prey Drive
Low
✓
Good for first-time owners

Health & Longevity

Health Score
Good (7/10)

Based on breed-specific genetic health risks and common conditions

Longevity
12–15 years
5 yrs20 yrs
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Consider Adopting

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 →
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Download the Cockapoo Guide

Get a printable PDF with traits, cost of ownership, health notes, and best-fit summary — free.

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