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.