A Cockapoo is a cross between a Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle.
Cockapoos have been recognized by the American people as a very
special cross since about 1960; they have been purposely breed
since the 1950's.
Cockapoos vary in size and color - there are no requirements of
conformity in either. Both size and color are determined
genetically from the parents, so the resulting Cockapoo puppy
will be a cross that resembles both of its parents and their
recent heritage. Smaller Cockapoos down to almost toy size can
be had from toy poodles and small cockers; conversely larger
Cockapoos from mid size to giant can result from larger cockers
and mini or standard poodles. Color will mix according to the
parents also - and Cockapoos can be solid, phantom or
parti-colored.
Cockapoos are considered 1st generation if the parents are pure
cocker spaniel and pure poodle. Cockapoo to Cockapoo is 2nd
generation and beyond. They are still Cockapoos as long as
the origin of the Cockapoo pedigree line was 1/2 cocker and 1/2
poodle and nothing else has been mixed in along the way, and it
stays Cockapoo to Cockapoo without adding back in any poodle or
cocker.
Cockapoos will almost always show strong characteristics of
both parents, but they definitely show both parents in a unique
way that gives Cockapoos such a special look.
In getting the best of both worlds Cockapoos acquire a keen
intelligence, more from the poodle (which has consistently
ranked among the worlds smartest dogs ) than from the cocker
(which is not a criticism, but cockers are not noted for high
intelligence). Cockapoos get some sturdiness from the cocker -
this is not to say the poodle is fragile but cockers have
heavier bone structure. The hair coat of the Cockapoo
tends to be wavy but not as tightly curled as the poodle nor
absolutely straight like some cockers. Poodles are noted
for longevity as are hybrids giving the Cockapoo a double dose
of longevity. Cockapoos are also noted for their wonderful
dispositioin and great tolerance of indiscretions, with a very
forgiving nature. They are great with children.
The indeterminate hair type of the poodle ( continuous growth )
contributes the low to no shedding characteristic to the
Cockapoo, while the cocker adds some silkiness. The
resulting hair type is also very low allergenic - without an
undercoat producing excess dander. Most people with allergies to
other dogs find that they can tolerate a Cockapoo with minimum
or any discomfort from their usual symptoms.
Thus, for people wanting a low to no odor and low to no
shedding, highly intelligent dog that is easy to train and
absolutely wonderful for children of all ages, playful and
energetic but easy to care for, and that will be around
for a while, the ideal dog is the Cockapoo.
