History

Cockapoo History

A Cockapoo is a cross between a Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle.

Cockapoos have been recognized by the American people as a very special cross since about 1960; they have been purposely breed since the 1950's.

Cockapoos vary in size and colour - there are no requirements of conformity in either. Both size and colour are determined genetically from the parents, so the resulting Cockapoo puppy will be a cross that resembles both of its parents and their recent heritage. Smaller Cockapoos down to almost toy size can be had from toy poodles and small cockers; cockers and miniature poodles.  

Colour will mix according to the parents also...Cockapoos can be solid (chocolate, black, red, and buff for example), phantom (black and tan for example) or parti-coloured (90% white w/10% of another colour such as

red, chocolate or black).  

Cockapoos will almost always show strong characteristics of both parents, but they definitely show both parents in a unique way that gives Cockapoos such a special look.

In getting the best of both worlds Cockapoos acquire a keen intelligence, more from the poodle (which has consistently ranked among the worlds smartest dogs ) than from the cocker (which is not a criticism, but cockers

are not noted for high intelligence but are the most loyal and loving companions). Cockapoos get some sturdiness from the cocker - this is not to say the poodle is fragile but cockers have heavier bone structure.  The

hair coat of the Cockapoo tends to be wavy but not as tightly curled neither as the poodle nor absolutely straight like some cockers.  Poodles are noted for longevity as are hybrids giving the Cockapoo a double dose of

longevity.  Cockapoos are also noted for their wonderful disposition and great tolerance of indiscretions, with a very forgiving nature. They are great with children, are excellent travelling companions and wonderful

family pets.

The indeterminate hair type of the poodle (continuous growth) contributes the low to no shedding characteristic to the Cockapoo, while the cocker adds some silkiness.  The resulting hair type is often very low

allergenic - without an undercoat producing excess dander. Some people with allergies to other dogs find that they can tolerate a Cockapoo with minimum or any discomfort from their usual symptoms.  

Thus, for people wanting a low to no odour and low to no shedding, highly intelligent dog that is easy to train and absolutely wonderful for children of all ages, playful and energetic but easy to care for,  and that will be

around for a while, the ideal dog is the Cockapoo.

Cockapoos tend to have far fewer genetic problems than their parent breeds. This is due to what some call hybrid vigour.

Nevertheless, both Poodles and Cocker Spaniels can suffer from PRA (Progressive retinal atrophy, an eye disorder), cataracts and other hereditary eye diseases so it's essential to ensure that the parent dogs are tested for these problems on a yearly basis.

It's also important that a Cockapoo's ears be kept clean and dry, as like Cocker Spaniels and other long-eared dogs, they can be prone to ear infections.

Cockapoos are famous for being loving, affectionate, open, friendly, and eager to please.

Also be mindful that Cockapoos do require regular grooming.