Overview
The Cockapoo is Britain's most popular cross and one of the most common dogs on a walker's books. A Cocker Spaniel and Poodle mix, it tends to combine the Spaniel's cheerful energy with the Poodle's intelligence, and most of them are devoted to people. Because it is a cross, size and temperament vary more than in a pedigree breed: a Toy Poodle parent gives a small, lighter dog, a Miniature a sturdier one.
They are easy to like and, usually, easy to walk. The two things that catch walkers out are separation worries, because many Cockapoos hate being left, and the coat, which turns a damp woodland walk into an hour of brushing for the owner.
Exercise and walking needs
An hour a day split into two walks suits most adults, with off-lead time and some play. They are quick learners who enjoy a game of fetch or a find-it, and ten minutes of that is worth more than a long trudge on the lead.
Spaniel genes mean many Cockapoos will go all day if invited, so it is on you to set the pace. Puppies and the smaller Toy-cross dogs need less, and all of them cope badly with being over-tired in the heat.
On the walk
- Recall: Often good, because they want to be near people, but the Spaniel nose can take over. Reward the check-ins and keep a long line for the first few walks.
- Pulling: Light. Most pull a little out of excitement rather than strength, and a harness keeps it comfortable.
- Other dogs: Playful and sociable, sometimes to the point of pestering. They suit group walks with dogs who like to play.
- Mud and water: The coat holds mud, burrs and water like a sponge. Avoid the deepest puddles if the owner has just paid for a groom.
- Separation: Many Cockapoos struggle when left. If you collect from an empty house, expect an over-the-top greeting and allow time for it.
Tips for professional walkers
- Carry a towel and a brush for the ends of walks; a quick going-over at the door earns a lot of goodwill.
- Use the dog's love of people in training: coming back to you is its own reward for most Cockapoos.
- Check between the toes and under the ears for grass seeds in summer; the coat hides them.
- Keep sessions mentally busy rather than just long. A bored Cockapoo invents its own games.
- Ask about the groom schedule and adjust routes in the days before and after.
What to ask the owner
- Which Poodle parent, Toy or Miniature, and roughly how big is the dog expected to get if it is still young?
- How does the dog cope with being left, and is there a routine for collecting it?
- When is the next groom, and are there areas to avoid so the coat stays manageable?
- Any ear problems? Floppy, hairy ears can be prone to irritation after swimming.