The cockapoo is, like many other hybrid dog breeds, one of
the trend crosses in recent years. Its endearing appearance, like that shown by
the pomsky or the maltipoo, shows that, increasingly, people are looking for a
partner with personality, regardless of their race. Despite this, it is true
that this particular cross is highly appreciated, as a result of the result
between a standard poodle and a cocker spaniel. Do you want to know how
cockapoo arose and what they are like? Find out in Animal Expert!
Origin of the cockapoo
The first recognized cockapoo specimens were born in the
1950s. They did so in the United States, where they became very popular in no
time. They were some beautiful and striking puppies, so they did not take long
to reach other countries, until they were present throughout the world. The
breed is not officially recognized by international cynological organizations,
which list it as a hybrid or mixed race. This fact means that there is no
official breed standard, so all individuals that result from a cross between an
English Cocker Spaniel and a standard poodle can automatically be considered a
cockapoo.
Cockapoo characteristics
Cockapoo are medium-sized dogs, because although there is
great variability between some specimens and another, the average body weight
is between 5 and 10 kilograms, with their usual height being between 25 and 40
centimeters. They are dogs with great longevity, as their average life
expectancy ranges from 14 to 18 years.
The appearance of these dogs depends fundamentally on the
predominant genetic load in them. In this way, there will be specimens that are
almost identical to either a poodle or a cocker spaniel, for example having the
square snout of the cocker or the white fur of the poodles. There are also specimens
in which the balance between both parent breeds is perfect, having
characteristics of one and the other in equal measure.
In general, the most uniform feature shared by all the
specimens is that they are medium in size, with long ears and that fall on
their cheeks and that their fur is long and wavy. They are also considered one
of the ideal dog breeds for people with an allergy to dog hair, as they hardly
lose any hair and are considered hypoallergenic.
The cockapoo puppy
Already from puppies it can be easy to distinguish "who
has come out" the cockapoo, seeing if it is more like a poodle or a
cocker. Without a doubt you can already see that they are active dogs, although
not too nervous, playful and very happy. They especially love puppies and they
love that we are with them all the time, because they are much attached and
follow their owners wherever they go. This may mean that when we have to go out
and they stay at home they cry and bark a lot, due to the anxiety that this
generates, something to which we will pay more attention in the training
section.
Cockapoo colors
In the absence of an official standard for this hybrid
breed, all colors of the parent breeds are "accepted". Thus, there
are puppies, white, black, gray, liver, blonde, chocolate or tuxedo, in
addition to the 50% mixtures between them, with black and white, chocolate, red
or blonde mixed with white being frequent, as well as the roan.
Cockapoo
character
Cockapoo are
usually dogs with a very good character. They are sociable, extremely
affectionate, love company and care, smart and active. They are popular as
therapy and assistance dogs due to their kindness and balanced character.
These are dogs
that establish strong ties with their loved ones, and not only with people, but
also with other dogs or pets. This causes them to show behaviors that
demonstrate their love for their owners, such as following them throughout the
house, sitting on their feet or demanding affection and attention in the most
endearing and fun ways.
But, this also
makes them not tolerate loneliness, so they are not a good choice if we usually
spend a lot of time at work or away from home in general. In these cases
cockapoo often develop problems such as anxiety, depression or even show
destructive or aggressive behavior.
Cockapoo care
The cockapoo need
us to pay them a series of attentions to be in the best conditions. The main
and most important to be balanced is without a doubt that we dedicate all the
time and affection that is possible, because this way we will have a happy and
happy pet. Regarding basic care, it is important that we provide them with a
balanced diet adjusted to their energy and nutritional needs. Combined with
good hydration and daily exercise.
Its coat needs to
be brushed on a daily basis, since its length and that it is wavy can otherwise
make knots and tangles that even require that we cut them because they are
impossible to undo. Baths can be done from time to time to remove the smell
from the hair, as some owners say they can smell otherwise.
Cockapoo
education
Cockapoo are
extremely intelligent dogs, as well as very attentive, so their training is
usually quite bearable. They are good as assistance dogs, something they have
been trained for since the breed's inception. The coaches highlight their
tenacity, sometimes translated into stubbornness, and a predisposition to learn
and work.
One factor that
can pose some problems for us is that, being very dependent and loving the
company, they can show separation anxiety. This is often accompanied very often
by endless barking and crying. So it is important that we know what separation
anxiety is, as well as the different techniques that exist to treat it. One of
them is the use of kong to treat separation anxiety, a technique that has
proven to be very effective if performed accurately.
Cockapoo health
Cockapoo do not
stand out for being one of the hybrid breeds with the most health problems,
generally having good health. However, they can inherit from both poodles and
cockers the tendency to suffer from some congenital diseases.
One of these
conditions is the greater tendency to suffer from ear infections such as
otitis. This condition is also painful, quite dangerous if not treated early,
as it can cause permanent deafness. Therefore, if we notice any symptoms that make
us suspect that there is an infection in the ear, such as scratching the area
more than normal, showing pain or being restless, we should go to the vet. This
can recommend that we do hearing cleaning, using a special product.
Other conditions
that can present are patellar dislocation, which they inherit from the cocker
spanks and affects the health of their knees, or eye problems such as
progressive retinal atrophy, which is common in poodles. For all these reasons,
we advise to make veterinary visits every 6 or 12 months that help us to follow
an adequate preventive medicine, also carrying out a strict follow-up of the
vaccination schedule and carrying out periodic deworming, both internal and
external.
Adopt a cockapoo
Surely after
meeting the cockapoo you have wanted to have one in your home. But what do you
have to do to adopt a cockapoo? This may be a headache for many, as some did
not even know that the race existed, but here we will try to guide you in its
adoption.
Above all it is
recommended to go to associations, shelters and kennels. Well, this way we can
save a puppy from the street and give it a second or third chance, since many
of them have already gone through several homes and consequent abandonments.
These dogs are usually very grateful, it is certainly a good idea to adopt a
stray dog, because they have infinite love to give.
Although it seems
to us that we will not be able to find a cockapoo in a refuge, surely we will
find various crosses, among them who knows, perhaps some cockapoo. The key is
not to despair and to search several places, we can also ask to be notified if
someone comes in to respond to our demands.
If we are going
to adopt a cockapoo, whether it is a puppy or an adult, it is vital to take
into account its care and requirements. In this way we must be aware that we
are dealing with a very dependent dog that cannot spend many hours in solitude.
Adopting helps to stop animal abandonment and give another chance to the most
disadvantaged, always resorting to a responsible and consistent adoption.
Cockapoos: 8
things you need to know about them
If there ever was
a mixed breed that stole our hearts, it's definitely the cockapoo (sometimes
called a cockapoodle). Although it is not the first doodle breed that existed
(that position is taken by the labradoodle), the mix of cocker spaniel and
poodle is one of the most popular and with good reason: they are absolutely
fascinating pets.
Here you can
discover some characteristics about cockapoo that you may not know. Although if
you are a fan of the breed, you are probably already aware ...
1. Cockapoo is
one of the friendliest dog breeds
It's hard to know
exactly where some traits come from in dogs but for some reason, this mix tends
to be one of the friendliest on the planet - and it also has one of the cutest
smiles! This is a dog that will happily greet you when you enter your home or
apartment, will follow you everywhere, and will snuggle up sweetly next to you
on the couch or directly on your lap. No matter where you go, the cockapoo will
follow you.
These little ones
are excellent therapy dogs, due to their friendliness, sociability and
personality. In addition, their small size (their maximum weight is 11 kg)
makes them ideal for anyone who feels nervous near a dog or for patients who
have trouble moving from their bed, for example.
2. They are
extremely smart
They can learn
many more commands than the classic "sit", "down" and
"still" commands. These doggies are capable of following more
complicated routines, as you can see in this video where Sushi, the cockapoo,
can do 20 tricks in less than three minutes. Cockapoos have shown us that they
know how to dance and that they love interactive toys.
3. They are
energetic hair balls
Although they
don't need too much daily exercise, cockapoos are very energetic. You will see
them running in circles on a regular basis. Do you want to play ball with them?
You're in luck because cockapoos will always want to play, whether in the
living room or in the park. Some people say they never lose that
"puppy" personality. Don't be surprised if their enthusiasm rubs off
on you, it's hard to see their happy faces and not feel that the world is a
little better place.
4. Your ears need
special cleaning
While the droopy
ears of the cockapoo are really pretty, they can also cause ear infections if
not properly maintained as they don't get as much fresh air. Check with your
vet about the best way to clean those furry ears. Another way to control the
cleanliness of your little one's ears and ears is by making sure that his
hairdresser cuts excess hair in that area regularly.
5. If you want to
receive kisses with good breath, be sure to brush your teeth
According to the
American Kennel Club, small dogs tend to have tartar buildup and other dental
problems that lead to tooth loss more often than larger dogs. Cockapoo is no
exception. Maintaining that beautiful healthy smile implies dedication, that
is, you will have to brush your teeth daily and carry out checks at the vet
regularly to avoid any dental problem. The reward is a happy and healthy pet
that will give you lots of sweet kisses, without having bad breath!
6. Cockapoos
don't lose much hair
Like poodles,
their coat tends to be wavy and their hair does not shed easily. As much as we
can not assure that it is ideal for an allergic person, having a cockapoo can
be convenient, since normally her hair does not float in the air at any time.
7. They come in
many colors
You may be more
familiar with a white or cream colored cockapoo, but these adorable puppies
have different colored coats, from white to black and many colors in between.
It's hard to foresee what color a cockapoo puppy will be until it is born, but
the good news is that no matter what color they are on the outside, they are
all sweet on the inside.
8. Prepare to
lose your determination
Maybe it is
because they are very sweet and energetic 95% of the time, or maybe because we
are too weak internally, but it is impossible to say no to this dog. Look at
that face ... wouldn't you do whatever it takes to make this little boy happy
again?
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