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The Cockapoo Breed Description Submitted by:
MoonShine Babies
View Breeders of the
Cockapoo
Also known as: Cockerpoo - Spoodle
History: Cockapoos
(American Cocker X Mini Poodle) have been known to the
United States since around the 1940's but were first
popular in the 1960's. Recently the breed has become
more popular, and many Cockapoos breeders still breed
1st generation but now you can find 2nd generation and
above now the result of breeding Cockapoo to Cockapoo
rather than of a direct cross between a Cocker Spaniel
and a Poodle. There are currently three Cockapoo clubs
in America that are working towards developing the
Cockapoo by breeding successive generations, and
establishing the Cockapoo as a recognized breed.
Colors and Coats Available: Any solid color, Parti color (two or more
solid colors one of which must be white), phantom (brown, black or silver body with contrasting color on
legs, under tail, eyebrows, side of face, inside ears),
sable, tri-color (parti color with tan markings over
each eye, on the sides of the muzzle/cheeks, on the
underside of the ears, on all feet and/or legs and
optionally on the chest). Merle and or roan are also
acceptable colors.
As with many other breeds the Cockapoo has 3
different coat types. We have the tight curly coat, the
medium curl, and the flat coat. While we strive for the
medium curl, all 3 coat types are acceptable. There are
many people who prefer the flat coat, and same with the
other coat types. It is very common to see all 3 types
within the same litter of pups. Cockapoos are prone to
low shedding but not non shedding.
Breeders usually try to retain the small build of the
American Cocker Spaniel, while retaining the wavy
quality of the Poodle's coat.
Average Heights and Weights: Size can be influenced by either parent
this is why there should be records kept and the height
and weight noted for each parent and also for each puppy
as it grows to an adult to get a record to base the
breed standard on. Adult individuals 10" at the shoulder
or less are toy size. Dogs 11"-14" at the shoulder are
considered mini size, and those 15" at the shoulder and
over are standard size. Cockapoo size is judged by their
height, not their weight. Two dogs who are the same size
can vary considerably in weight depending both on their
overall build and whether one is fat or thin. Poodle
sizes are graded on height measured to the top of the
shoulder at standing position.
Weights of individuals will depend on the factors
explained above. To give a general idea of weight, a toy
would ideally weigh under 12 pounds, a Mini 13-20 pounds
and a Standard 21 pounds and up.
Grooming and Special Care Needed: Cockapoos require regular
grooming and may be groomed to the owners liking some
people like the traditional Cockapoo (teddy bear) look
which is the same length all over and the face rounded.
Some people like the poodle look which is cute but only
works if the coat shows a lot of the poodle trait, then
we have those who like the cocker skirt which this looks
cute with either coat type but it depends on the owners
preference. But no matter which style you choose
grooming is very important for a happy healthy Cockapoo.
Health Concerns:
Cockapoos tend to have far fewer genetic problems than
their parent breeds due to hybrid vigor.
However, both Poodles and Cocker Spaniels can suffer
from luxating patella's (loose knees) and progressive
retinal atrophy. This makes Cockapoos prone to these
problems as well. They can also be prone to ear
infections.
This is why it is important to have the parent dogs
checked for these problems prior to breeding.
Average Life Span: 14-18 years, some may live up to 22
years.
Best Suitable Environment: The best suitable home environment for a
Cockapoo is a loving well established home with a family
that is wanting a loving, loyal and protective companion
for many happy years.
Personality/Temperament: The cockapoo is a very people oriented,
outgoing, and happy dog. The cockapoo is a very
intelligent dog and coupled with a forgiving nature that
makes it unparalleled as a children's dog. They are as
much at home in an apartment as they are on the biggest
farm. They are extremely easy to train to just about any
situation and living condition, but are people dogs and
should not be left alone for very long periods of time.
A true Cockapoo starts with Parent dogs
being of Pure bred status (Cocker Spaniel and Poodle)
When you want to get a second generation and above
Parent dogs should be of the same generation, and never
mix a cockapoo with a poodle, or cocker because you are
adding the parent breed in and you end up with (Cockapoo
bred to Poodle = Poodle Mix Cockapoo bred to Cocker=
Cocker mix).
View Breeders of the
Cockapoo
Cockapoo Description
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