Cockapoo
Britain's most popular crossbreed — a Cocker Spaniel × Poodle cross prized for its friendly nature and low-shedding coat. Health depends entirely on both parents being tested.
Key facts
Lifespan
12–15 years
Height
25–38 cm
Weight
5–11 kg
Exercise
~60 mins/day
Grooming
High
Shedding
Low
Training
Easy to train
First-time owners
Suitable
About the Cockapoo
Cockapoos are not a Kennel Club recognised breed, so there is no breed standard and considerable variation in size, coat and temperament — first crosses differ from F2 and later generations. Most are sociable, bright and highly trainable, inheriting the Cocker's affection and the Poodle's quick mind. The 'hypoallergenic' claim is overstated: low-shedding is not the same as allergy-free, and coats vary from wavy to tightly curled.
Living with a Cockapoo
Adaptable; needs company and daily mental stimulation.
- Good with children
- Good with other pets
- Suitable for first-time owners
Health
Conditions this breed is commonly predisposed to. This is general information, not veterinary advice — speak to a vet about any specific animal.
- Inherits risks from both parent breeds
- Ear infections (drop ears plus hair in the canal)
- Progressive retinal atrophy; hip dysplasia; patellar luxation
- Coat mats readily without regular grooming
Ask the breeder for
- Both parents: BVA/KC hip scores and current eye certificates
- DNA tests appropriate to each parent breed (prcd-PRA, FN for Cockers; PRA-prcd for Poodles)
Buying a Cockapoo
Because there is no breed standard, breeder quality varies enormously and Cockapoos are a favourite of puppy farms. Ask which generation the litter is (F1, F1b, F2), and insist on health certificates for both parents — not just the mother.
Read the full safe-buying guideCockapoos for sale
No Cockapoo adverts are live right now. New adverts are posted daily — or set your sights a little wider.
All dogs for saleCockapoo FAQs
How long do Cockapoos live?
A Cockapoo typically lives 12–15 years.
How much exercise does a Cockapoo need?
Around 60 minutes of daily exercise for a healthy adult, plus mental stimulation. Puppies need considerably less until their joints have matured.
Are Cockapoos good for first-time owners?
Yes — Cockapoos are generally suitable for sensible first-time owners who will train and exercise them consistently.
What health tests should a Cockapoo breeder have done?
Both parents: BVA/KC hip scores and current eye certificates. DNA tests appropriate to each parent breed (prcd-PRA, FN for Cockers; PRA-prcd for Poodles).
Breed information is general guidance compiled by the PetHome team. Every animal is an individual — meet it, and its mother, before you commit. This is not veterinary advice.