About Cockapoo Dogs

The cockapoo, arguably the original designer dog, is a small, intelligent and extremely friendly dog that has been popular with Americans since the 1960s. A cross between two other purebred dogs, cockapoos are known for their fuzzy coat and people-oriented nature. Supporters of this hybrid dog love it for its personality, and are working to establish a true breed standard.

  1. What Is a Cockapoo?

    • Dogs that are crosses between cocker spaniels and poodles are known as cockapoos. The cockapoo first came about in the United States in the 1960s and has been fairly popular as a family pet ever since. Fanciers of the breed claim that these were the original "designer dogs," a term that refers to the offspring of two different breeds of purebred dogs. Today, cockapoo breeders are working hard to establish the dog as a legitimate breed with consistently hereditary traits and looks.

    Physical Characteristics

    • Because a breed standard has not been established, cockapoos often vary in physical appearance. Some reflect more of their cocker spaniel bloodlines, while others more closely resemble poodles. Cockapoos come in several different sizes and range from under 10 lbs. to over 20 lbs., and 10 to 15 inches in height. Depending on their size, they are classified into different categories: toy, miniature and standard. They also come in a variety of colors. In general, however, cockapoos have a soft, wavy-to-curly coat that grows continuously but sheds very little. Their eyes are large and bright, and often brown in color. Their ears are medium-sized and hang down.

    Temperament and Personality

    • The cockapoo is known as an intelligent, loving and exceptionally friendly dog. In addition, they have a reputation for being exceedingly patient and forgiving with small children. They are rarely aggressive toward people or other animals. They are curious, playful and always interested in what family members are doing. Because of these traits, cockapoos should never be considered watchdogs. While they are very friendly and sociable, they are each individuals, and some cockapoos have also gained the reputation for nipping and biting when fearful. Others are prone to behavioral problems, like separation anxiety and urinating indoors even when housebroken.

    The Designer Dog Debate

    • The breeding of designer dogs like the cockapoo is hotly debated among industry professionals and individual animal lovers alike. Some believe that dogs like cockapoos are merely mutts. Others defend these purebred crosses as hybrids that have the potential to be their own unique breed with accepted standards. Currently, the American Kennel Club does not recognize the cockapoo and classifies it as a mixed breed. While mixed dogs are allowed to compete at AKC shows, they must be altered in order to be eligible. However, other clubs and associations like the American Cockapoo Club and the North American Cockapoo Registry support the responsible breeding of these dogs and keep records in much the same way as the AKC does. They have extensive genetic information on registered cockapoos, and the database now extends out to six generations. Such organizations are working to establish the breed scientifically and genetically.