Understanding The Full Grown Cockapoo: A Comprehensive Guide

The full grown cockapoo is a delightful, affectionate, and intelligent hybrid dog known for its friendly nature and charming appearance. As a crossbreed between a Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle, this adorable canine combines the best traits of both parent breeds. With their curly or wavy coats and expressive eyes, full grown cockapoos have captured the hearts of dog lovers around the world. Whether you're considering adopting one or already have a cockapoo in your life, understanding their characteristics and needs is essential for a harmonious relationship.

When it comes to size, full grown cockapoos can vary significantly depending on the size of their Poodle parent, which comes in toy, miniature, or standard varieties. This can result in a range of sizes from small to medium, with adults typically weighing between 12 to 24 pounds. Despite their size differences, all full grown cockapoos are known for their sociable and loving nature, making them excellent companions for individuals and families alike.

The popularity of the full grown cockapoo owes much to its versatile and adaptable nature. They thrive in various living environments, from apartment living to larger homes with yards. Additionally, their low-shedding coats make them an attractive option for those with allergies, although regular grooming is essential to keep their coats healthy and mat-free. With proper care, training, and socialization, full grown cockapoos can lead fulfilling lives and bring endless joy to their owners.

Table of Contents

1. What is a Full Grown Cockapoo?
2. How Big Does a Full Grown Cockapoo Get?
3. Personality of a Full Grown Cockapoo
4. Are Full Grown Cockapoos Hypoallergenic?
5. What to Feed a Full Grown Cockapoo?
6. Grooming Needs of a Full Grown Cockapoo
7. Training a Full Grown Cockapoo
8. Full Grown Cockapoo Health Concerns
9. How Much Exercise Does a Full Grown Cockapoo Need?
10. Living with a Full Grown Cockapoo in an Apartment
11. Socializing a Full Grown Cockapoo
12. Cost of Owning a Full Grown Cockapoo
13. Full Grown Cockapoo vs. Other Doodle Breeds
14. History of the Cockapoo Breed
15. Finding a Reputable Cockapoo Breeder

What is a Full Grown Cockapoo?

A full grown cockapoo is a mixed breed dog, a cross between the Cocker Spaniel and the Poodle. This designer breed originated in the United States during the 1950s, when breeders aimed to create a dog with the intelligence and low-shedding coat of the Poodle combined with the affectionate and friendly nature of the Cocker Spaniel. The result is a loyal, smart, and loving companion dog that has gained popularity worldwide. Full grown cockapoos typically have a lifespan of 12 to 15 years, making them a long-term commitment for any pet owner.

How Big Does a Full Grown Cockapoo Get?

The size of a full grown cockapoo can vary greatly depending on the size of its Poodle parent. Here's a general breakdown of the sizes:

• Toy Cockapoo: Usually weighs under 12 pounds and stands about 10 inches tall.
• Miniature Cockapoo: Weighs between 13 to 18 pounds and stands 11 to 14 inches tall.
• Standard Cockapoo: Weighs 19 to 24 pounds and stands 15 inches or taller.

Despite these size differences, all full grown cockapoos share similar temperament traits, making them adaptable to various living situations and family dynamics.

Personality of a Full Grown Cockapoo

Full grown cockapoos are renowned for their friendly, affectionate, and sociable personalities. They are highly intelligent and eager to please, which makes them relatively easy to train. Cockapoos are known to form strong bonds with their families and are generally good with children and other pets. They thrive on human interaction and can suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods.

Are Full Grown Cockapoos Hypoallergenic?

Many people are drawn to full grown cockapoos because they are often considered hypoallergenic. While no dog is completely hypoallergenic, cockapoos tend to shed less due to their Poodle ancestry, which makes them a better option for allergy sufferers. However, it's important to note that individual reactions to dog dander can vary, so spending time with a cockapoo before committing to ownership is advisable for those with allergies.

What to Feed a Full Grown Cockapoo?

A balanced diet is crucial for maintaining the health and well-being of a full grown cockapoo. Here are some guidelines for feeding your cockapoo:

• Provide high-quality commercial dog food that is appropriate for their size, age, and activity level.
• Include lean meats, vegetables, and grains in their diet to ensure they receive essential nutrients.
• Avoid feeding them table scraps or foods that are toxic to dogs, such as chocolate, grapes, and onions.
• Monitor their weight and adjust portion sizes as necessary to prevent obesity.

Grooming Needs of a Full Grown Cockapoo

Full grown cockapoos have coats that require regular grooming to prevent matting and keep them looking their best. Here are some grooming tips:

• Brush their coat at least two to three times a week to prevent tangles and mats.
• Schedule professional grooming every six to eight weeks to maintain their coat's health and appearance.
• Clean their ears regularly to prevent infections, especially if they have floppy ears.
• Trim their nails every few weeks to prevent overgrowth and discomfort.
• Brush their teeth regularly to promote good oral hygiene.

Training a Full Grown Cockapoo

Training is an essential part of raising a well-behaved full grown cockapoo. These intelligent dogs respond well to positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats and praise. Consistency and patience are key when training a cockapoo, as they can be sensitive to harsh methods. Early socialization is also important to help them develop into well-rounded dogs.

Full Grown Cockapoo Health Concerns

Like all breeds, full grown cockapoos may be susceptible to certain health issues. Some common health concerns include:

• Hip Dysplasia: A genetic condition that affects the hip joint, leading to arthritis and pain.
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): An eye condition that can lead to blindness.
• Ear Infections: Due to their floppy ears, cockapoos are prone to ear infections if not cleaned regularly.
• Allergies: Skin allergies can cause itching and discomfort.
• Knee Issues: Patellar luxation is a common problem where the kneecap dislocates.

Regular veterinary check-ups and a healthy lifestyle can help manage and prevent many of these issues.

How Much Exercise Does a Full Grown Cockapoo Need?

Full grown cockapoos are active dogs that require regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. They enjoy daily walks, playtime in the yard, and interactive toys to keep their minds stimulated. Aim for at least 30 to 60 minutes of exercise per day, depending on their age and energy level. Engaging in activities like agility training or obedience classes can also provide mental and physical stimulation.

Living with a Full Grown Cockapoo in an Apartment

Full grown cockapoos can adapt well to apartment living, provided they receive adequate exercise and mental stimulation. Their small to medium size makes them suitable for smaller living spaces, but it's important to ensure they have opportunities to burn off energy through walks and playtime. Regular socialization with other dogs and people can also help prevent behavioral issues.

Socializing a Full Grown Cockapoo

Socialization is crucial for full grown cockapoos to ensure they grow up to be well-adjusted adults. Expose them to a variety of people, animals, and environments from a young age to build their confidence and reduce the likelihood of fear-based behaviors. Enroll them in puppy classes or arrange playdates with other dogs to enhance their social skills.

Cost of Owning a Full Grown Cockapoo

Owning a full grown cockapoo involves various costs, including:

• Purchase Price: Costs can vary depending on the breeder, location, and lineage.
• Veterinary Care: Regular check-ups, vaccinations, and preventative care.
• Grooming: Professional grooming sessions every few months.
• Food and Supplies: High-quality dog food, toys, and other essentials.
• Training Classes: Optional classes for obedience and socialization.

Budgeting for these expenses is important to ensure your cockapoo receives the care they need throughout their life.

Full Grown Cockapoo vs. Other Doodle Breeds

Cockapoos are part of the "doodle" family, which includes other Poodle crossbreeds like Goldendoodles and Labradoodles. While these breeds share some similarities, there are distinct differences as well:

• Cockapoos: Known for their friendly nature, moderate size, and adaptability.
• Goldendoodles: Larger than cockapoos, often more energetic and require more space.
• Labradoodles: May have a higher energy level and need consistent training and exercise.

Choosing the right doodle breed depends on your lifestyle, living situation, and personal preferences.

History of the Cockapoo Breed

The cockapoo is one of the oldest designer dog breeds, with its origins tracing back to the United States in the 1950s. Breeders aimed to create a dog that combined the best qualities of the Cocker Spaniel and the Poodle. The breed quickly gained popularity due to its friendly demeanor, intelligence, and low-shedding coat. Over the years, cockapoos have become beloved family pets and continue to be a popular choice for dog lovers worldwide.

Finding a Reputable Cockapoo Breeder

When looking to adopt a full grown cockapoo, finding a reputable breeder is crucial to ensure you get a healthy and well-adjusted puppy. Consider the following tips:

• Research: Look for breeders with a good reputation and positive reviews from past customers.
• Visit the Breeder: If possible, visit the breeder's facility to see the conditions in which the puppies are raised.
• Ask Questions: Inquire about the breeder's experience, breeding practices, and health testing for parent dogs.
• Meet the Parents: Meeting the puppy's parents can give you insight into the temperament and potential size of your cockapoo.
• Get References: Ask for references from previous buyers to ensure the breeder's credibility.

By taking these steps, you can increase the likelihood of finding a healthy and well-bred cockapoo to join your family.