Cockapoo Information

Here at Valley Cockapoos, health and temperament is our number one priority. That is why we carefully select good quality AKC registered pure breed parents. We not only select healthy parents but also their personalities as well. As a personal preference, I aim to breed only first-generation Cockapoo or Shihpoo puppies to take advantage of the hybrid vigor and Heterosis effect which results in a healthier, more vigorous puppy with a reduced chance of genetic disease. Pure breeds and inbreeds often carry genetic diseases. Heterosis is the phenomenon where crossing two inbred lines can produce descendants with superior genetic foundations. This increased health and vigor does not create a superior breed, but the advantages obtained from it are what produce hybrid vigor. This goal in this scenario is not to create a new breed, but to create a happy and healthy pet.

Cockapoo

Description and Appearance

Cockapoo is a hybrid dog crossed from a Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle. The Cockapoo has been bred since at least the 1950s as an ideal companion pet and family dog. Cockapoos are highly intelligent retaining most of it from the Poodle and the sturdiness from the Cocker. The hair coat of the Cockapoo tends to be wavy but not as tightly curled as the poodle nor absolutely straight like some cockers. Cockapoos are low to non-shedding and are hypoallergenic with little to no dander. Most people with allergies to other dogs find that they can tolerate a Cockapoo with minimum or any discomfort. Cockapoos come in a variety of solid colors, parti-colors, two colors, phantom, sable, and brindle.

Height and Weight

Size can be influenced by either parent’s recent background. 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 that are the same size can vary considerably in weight depending both on their overall build and whether one is fat or thin.

Weights of individuals will depend on the factors explained above. To give a general idea of weight, a Toy would ideally weigh less than 12 pounds, a Mini 13-20 pounds, and a Standard 21 pounds and up.

Angy’s Cockapoos are mostly small Mini Cockapoos, weighing from 12 to 15lbs and are 11” to 14” high. Occasionally we have small toys.

Cockapoo Temperament

The Cockapoo has become known and in demand for its wonderful disposition, high intelligence, and curiosity, devoted loyalty, as well as for the hypoallergenic characteristics of little to no dander, shedding or odor. Cockapoos are also easily trained and have an amazingly forgiving nature of the indiscretions of small children with a keen intelligence any adult can appreciate. Cockapoos are very people-oriented, outgoing, playful, and happy dogs. Their clown-like personality appeals to young and old alike. They have a large dog personality in a small dog suit! They are as much at home, in an apartment, or on the biggest farm. They are extremely easy to train for just about any situation.

Cockapoo Health

Although there is no proven research, Cockapoos are quite healthy benefiting from gene mixing and avoiding many of the hereditary health problems Cocker Spaniels and Poodles are known to have. As a result of the hybrid vigor, Cockapoos can live up to 15 years with good health.

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.

Exercise and Grooming

The Cockapoo is a happy-go-lucky dog that loves to run and play with his family. No yard is fine, but a daily walk is recommended since they have the tendency to over eat so exercise is needed for this dog to stay healthy.

Cockapoos are non-to low shedding and they do require regular grooming. They should be trimmed 6 to 8 weeks to keep the hair from matting. Regular brushing will keep the coat clean and tangle-free.