Cockapoo

The cockapoo is a hybrid dog breed developed by crossing a cocker spaniel with a poodle, most commonly a miniature poodle.

The cockapoo is a hybrid dog breed developed by crossing a cocker spaniel with a poodle, most commonly a miniature poodle. It is not recognised as a pure breed by the American Kennel Club and is generally classified as a mixed-breed or crossbreed dog.

What it is

Cockapoos are among the earliest designer dog breeds, with origins in the United States in the 1950s or 1960s. They are a deliberate cross between a cocker spaniel and a poodle, and their size varies widely depending on the poodle parent, with toy, miniature, and standard-type sizes reported.

Key details

Cockapoos are small to medium dogs, typically about 25–40 cm tall and 5.4–10.9 kg. They have a reported lifespan of 12–18 years, with many guides placing the average near 12–15 years. Their coat is often low-shedding and may be considered allergy-friendly, but no dog breed is completely hypoallergenic.

Why it matters

Cockapoos are popular companion dogs in Canada and elsewhere, known for their affectionate, intelligent, and family-oriented temperament. However, because they are a crossbreed rather than a fixed pure breed, their temperament and appearance can vary. The American Kennel Club does not recognise the cockapoo as a pure breed.