Cockapoo Puppy Dog Care Information

Photo of an attractive
Cockapoo puppy dog

Cockapoo Health Information:

The Cockapoo gains a great benefit from being a mixed breed dog - hybrid vigor. This term basically means that by mixing two or more healthy dog breeds, nature usually passes on the healthy traits to the offspring. Hybrid dogs are generally healthier than purebred dogs, since they come from a much larger gene pool. Genetic diversity helps ensure a healthy dog that is free from hereditary disorders.

That being said, it's important to choose a reputable breeder from which to buy a Cockapoo puppy. A responsible breeder will ensure that only healthy dogs are bred to healthy dogs, further reducing the incidence of genetic conditions that can affect the puppies.

Your breeder should screen her breeding dogs for the following conditions that can be found in Cockapoos:

Patellar Luxation (OFA)
Hip Dysplasia (OFA)
Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease (OFA)
Eye Problems (CERF or Optigen)

Cockapoo Exercise Information:

Size pretty much dictates the activity needs of the Cockapoo. Toy and Teacup Cockapoos require minimal amounts of exercise and are a good match for people living in small spaces such as apartments or condos. The larger Cockapoos from Standard and Minature Poodle lineage need more exercise and a securely fenced yard in which to romp.

All Cockapoos enjoy a good walk with their owners, and will gladly accompany their family on outdoor excursions.

Cockapoos inherit the athletic ability of their Poodle and Cocker Spaniel parents, and do very well in dog activities such as obedience, agility, flyball, frisbee, etc. Cockapoos also make excellent therapy dogs.

Cockapoo Grooming Needs:

This is about the only drawback to owning a Cockapoo. Grooming can be a bit demanding. Most owners have their Cockapoo groomed about once every 2 to 3 months, at cost of anywhere from $30 to $60. If you're the "do it yourself" type, a set of dog clippers and a grooming kit can easily be obtained at your local pet store or Walmart. Basic dog grooming is a skill that can be mastered fairly easily, especially with such a mild mannered and agreeable subject to work on.

Other than regular clipping, you should try to give your Cockapoo a good brushing every couple of days to keep mats and snarls at bay. Ears should be wiped out weekly or so with an acidifying cleanser (also available at the pet store or Walmart) to keep the ears clean and free from yeast infections and mites.