Why Cockapoos are popular, and what to know before you get one
Why so many UK families choose a Cockapoo, and the honest facts to weigh up first: no dog is hypoallergenic, grooming needs are high, they need exercise, training and company, and both parent breeds should be health tested. Plus how to avoid puppy farms.
This guidance applies in England. Rules elsewhere in the UK may differ.
The short answer
Cockapoos, a cross between a Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle, are popular because they are often friendly, people-focused and lively, and come in a range of sizes. But no dog is hypoallergenic, their coats need regular brushing and professional trims, and they need daily exercise, training and company. Buy from a breeder who health tests both parents, or adopt, and be careful of puppy farms.
Key considerations
- 01No dog is hypoallergenic. Cockapoo coats vary, and some people with allergies will still react.
- 02The coat needs brushing several times a week and regular professional trims to prevent painful mats.
- 03Cockapoos are usually people-focused and need company, daily exercise and reward-based training.
- 04Ask the breeder about health tests for both parent breeds, and see the results.
The Cockapoo, a cross between a Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle, has become a familiar sight in UK parks. It is a crossbreed rather than a recognised pedigree breed, so there is no breed standard, and Cockapoos vary more in size, coat and temperament than most pedigree dogs.
They can make lovely companions, but they are not a low-effort dog. Here is why people love them, and what to think about before you get one.
Why Cockapoos are so popular
- Friendly and people-focused. Many Cockapoos are affectionate, sociable dogs that love being with their family.
- Lively and playful. Both parent breeds are active and intelligent, so Cockapoos often enjoy walks, games and learning new things.
- A range of sizes. Depending on whether the Poodle parent is a Toy, Miniature or larger Poodle, Cockapoos range from small to medium-sized.
- Attractive coats. Their soft, wavy or curly coats are a big part of their appeal, and some shed less than other dogs.
No dog is hypoallergenic
Cockapoos are often advertised as "hypoallergenic", but no dog is. Allergies are caused mainly by proteins in a dog's skin flakes, saliva and urine, not just loose hair. Cockapoo coats also vary: some are tightly curled like a Poodle's, others are flatter and shed more like a spaniel's.
If anyone in your home has a dog allergy, spend time with the puppy's parents and with adult Cockapoos before you commit, and talk to your GP. Be wary of any seller who promises a dog that won't cause allergies.
Grooming is a big commitment
A Cockapoo's coat is not low maintenance. Many need:
- brushing and combing down to the skin several times a week, paying attention to ears, armpits, legs and tail
- regular professional trims throughout their lives
- regular checks and cleaning of the ears, which can trap dirt and moisture
Without regular care, the coat can form mats that pull on the skin, trap dirt and become painful. Badly matted dogs may need to be clipped short. Get your puppy used to gentle handling, brushing and the groomer's from a young age, using treats and praise, and budget for grooming for the dog's whole life.
Exercise, training and company
Cockapoos usually need daily walks plus play and mental exercise, such as sniffing games, puzzle feeders and training. A bored Cockapoo may bark, chew or find its own entertainment.
They tend to learn quickly with reward-based training, using treats, toys and praise. Start early with basics such as coming when called, walking on a loose lead and settling calmly.
Because they are so people-focused, many Cockapoos struggle if left alone for long periods, and some develop separation-related problems. Teach your puppy gradually that being alone for short spells is safe, and plan for company or a dog walker if you are out for long periods.
Are Cockapoos good with children?
Many Cockapoos live happily with children, but no breed or crossbreed is guaranteed to be good with them. A puppy's experiences, training and supervision matter far more. Teach children to be gentle and to leave the dog alone when it is eating or resting, and never leave young children and dogs unsupervised.
Health testing both parent breeds
A Cockapoo can inherit health problems from either side of the family. Cocker Spaniels and Poodles each have recommended health tests and screening schemes. Ask the breeder which tests apply to each parent breed, whether both parents have been tested, and to see the results. A good breeder will be happy to show you.
Avoiding puppy farms and scams
High demand for Cockapoos has made them a target for puppy farmers and scammers. To protect yourself and the puppy:
- See the puppy with its mother, in the home where it was raised. Visit more than once if you can.
- Be wary of sellers who want to meet somewhere else, won't video call, or push you to pay a deposit quickly.
- In England, puppies under six months cannot be sold by a third party such as a pet shop or dealer. Buy directly from the breeder or adopt from a rescue.
- In England, a breeder who needs a licence must show the licence number in their adverts. You can check it with the council.
- Ask for the microchip number, vaccination records and health test results, and check they match.
You could also consider adopting. Cockapoos and other crossbreeds regularly need new homes.
Before you decide
- Can you afford regular professional grooming for the dog's whole life?
- Is someone at home for much of the day, or can you arrange company for your dog?
- Have you seen the puppy with its mother where it was raised?
- Have you seen health test results for both parents?
Questions readers ask
Are Cockapoos hypoallergenic?
No. No dog is hypoallergenic. Allergies are mainly caused by proteins in skin flakes, saliva and urine, and Cockapoo coats vary. If someone in your home has allergies, spend time with adult Cockapoos and the puppy's parents first, and talk to your GP.
How much grooming does a Cockapoo need?
A lot. Most need brushing and combing several times a week and regular professional trims for life. Without this, the coat can mat, which is uncomfortable and can be painful.
Can Cockapoos be left alone?
Many Cockapoos are very people-focused and find long periods alone hard. Build up time alone gradually from puppyhood, and arrange company or a dog walker if you are out for long stretches.
Sources: How to help your dog get used to spending time alone
What health tests should a Cockapoo's parents have?
It depends on the parent breeds. Cocker Spaniels and Poodles each have recommended health tests. Ask the breeder which tests both parents have had, and ask to see the results.
Sources and further reading
- Spaniel (Cocker): breed information, The Kennel Club. Accessed
- Poodle (Miniature): breed information, The Kennel Club. Accessed
- Poodle (Toy), The Royal Kennel Club. Accessed
- Getting started with health testing and screening, The Kennel Club. Accessed
- Questions to ask the breeder, The Royal Kennel Club. Accessed
- Separation anxiety in dogs: signs and support, Dogs Trust. Accessed
- How to help your dog get used to spending time alone, Dogs Trust. Accessed
- Going to a dog groomer, RSPCA. Accessed
- Buying a cat or dog, GOV.UK (Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs) (). Accessed
- Ban of third-party sales of puppies and kittens known as Lucy's Law confirmed, GOV.UK (Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs) (). Accessed
- Dog breeding licence (England), GOV.UK. Accessed
- 10 steps to buying a puppy, The Puppy Contract (Animal Welfare Foundation and RSPCA). Accessed
- Positive reinforcement training with rewards, Dogs Trust. Accessed
About this article
- Written by Mypetzilla Editorial Team
- Published
- Updated
This article is general pet advice, not veterinary or legal advice. If your pet is unwell, speak to a vet.
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