Cockapoo

• ExerciseHigh

  Needs a good workout or long walk every day.

• GroomingBrush a few times a week

  Brushing several times a week prevents mats.

• Living spaceApartment-friendly

  Happy in smaller homes with regular outings.

• Owner experienceFor experienced owners

  Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• Commitment12–15 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Ear infections · Patellar luxation · Progressive retinal atrophy

The Cockapoo is the oldest of the poodle crosses, deliberately bred in the United States since the 1960s and now one of the most popular family dogs in Britain. It combines a Cocker Spaniel, either American or English, with a Miniature or Toy Poodle, producing a dog of roughly five to twelve kilograms depending on the parents. It is popular for good reason. Cockapoos are consistently cheerful, affectionate, sociable and easy to train, combining the Cocker's warmth and eagerness with the Poodle's brains. They are usually excellent with children and other dogs, adapt to flats or houses, and are lively without being overwhelming. They need around an hour of daily activity including scent games and training, and like both parent breeds they are strongly people-oriented and can develop separation anxiety if regularly left alone all day. Coat care is the underestimated part. The wavy coat sheds little but mats quickly, needing brushing every day or two right down to the skin and professional grooming every six to eight weeks; matting behind the ears and in the armpits is the usual failure point. The long drop ears must be checked and dried after swims and baths, because ear infections are by far the most common health complaint in this cross. Ask any breeder for eye testing and patella checks on both parents, hip scores where relevant, and DNA panels covering progressive retinal atrophy.

• How much exercise does a Cockapoo need?

  High. Needs a good workout or long walk every day.

• How much grooming does a Cockapoo need?

  Brush a few times a week. Brushing several times a week prevents mats.

• Is a Cockapoo suited to apartment living?

  Apartment-friendly. Happy in smaller homes with regular outings.

• Is a Cockapoo a good fit for first-time owners?

  For experienced owners. Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• How long do Cockapoo live?

  12–15 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Cockapoo?

  Keep an eye out for Ear infections, Patellar luxation, Progressive retinal atrophy. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

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