Why Get a Cockapoo Dog?

A first generation Cockapoo dog is a Poodle / American or English Cocker Spaniel mix. If you select a true Cockapoo from a reputable breeder, the pup will have no parentage other than Poodle, Cocker Spaniel, or Cockapoo.

This parentage produces a low-shedding dog that most people with allergies do not react to because there is minimal dog dander. In the vast majority of cases, it preserves the sweet, people-loving nature of a Cocker Spaniel with the high intelligence of a Poodle. The result - a wonderful companion and highly intelligent, trainable family pet.

If you want to preserve the true Cockapoo temperament, do NOT get a Cockapoo mixed with another breed (with the exception of a Poodle or Cocker Spaniel).

For example, the author of this article has two dogs – a first-generation buff and cream Cockapoo (Simon) and a Bichon Frise / Cockapoo mix (Alvin). Simon’s the butt-waggling people-pleaser. Prince Alvin possesses distinct Bichon traits, including silky cotton-candy-like hair and a spitfire attitude. Don’t get me wrong – both dogs are lovable companions, but Simon is the more typical curly-haired and sweet Cockapoo dog.

Finding Your Cockapoo

So where do you find these wonderful canines?

You can visit a pet store to find a pup. You’ll see the puppy, but you won’t know much about the parentage or if the pup has been raised at a puppy mill.

You can go online to pick a breeder, but no matter how often you talk to a breeder over the phone and what kind of guarantee you get, you risk the curse of online purchasing. Alvin’s online breeder disappeared into cyberspace when we started emailing about his continual scratching. Hmmmm. Missouri is a long drive from Connecticut!

You can go to a shelter to find a Cockapoo, but it’ll be like Forrest Gump’s box of chocolates – You never know what you’re gonna get.

The Cockapoo Breeder

If you really want to know the type of Cockapoo dog you will be purchasing (and you should know), pick a reputable breeder, preferably from referrals (and not the ones on breeders’ web sites). At a minimum, the breeder should do the following:

• Permit you t o see and visit with puppies and parents (if the puppies are very young you may not be able to see or handle them).

• Provide a tour of breeder facilities.

• Provide a written guarantee.

• Show proof of worming, vaccinations, vet checkup, and DNA checking.

• Answer all your questions.

• Socialize and begin puppy crate training.

• Agree to stay in contact should issues arise.

Clearly, picking a reputable breeder becomes the most important step to begin a long and happy life with your Cockapoo dog.