Longevity
Life expectancy
The Cockapoo lives on average from 13 to 16 years. This longevity largely depends on the screening of breeding dogs, maintaining a stable weight and regular veterinary monitoring, particularly for the eyes and ears.
Build
A robust breed?
Small to medium-sized and well-built, the Cockapoo is hardy and suited to an active family life. Its robustness is good, provided that the parent lines are healthy: a serious breeder tests their Cockers and Poodles for hereditary eye diseases.
Watch points
What to watch for
Particular vigilance should be paid to the ears, prone to ear infections due to their drooping shape and hairiness, to the eyes and to the knees in smaller sizes. Regular ear cleaning and attention to any lameness or eye discomfort are recommended.
Progressive retinal atrophy : Hereditary retinal disease found in Cocker Spaniels and Poodles, detectable by DNA testing.
Ear infections : Common due to floppy, hairy ears, they can be prevented by regular cleaning.
Patellar luxation : Especially in smaller sizes, it causes intermittent lameness.
Hip dysplasia : Possible depending on the bloodlines, it warrants screening of breeding dogs.
Climate
Cold and heat tolerance
The Cockapoo tolerates temperate climates well. Its coat provides moderate protection from the cold, but a closely clipped dog may need a coat in winter. In very hot weather, exertion should be limited and shade and water should be provided.
Weight
Tendency to gain weight
Greedy, the Cockapoo easily gains weight if the portion is not measured. A stable weight protects its joints and longevity: the portion must be weighed and training treats included in the daily total.
Daily life
Good habits to keep it healthy
- Clean and dry the ears after swimming.
- Consult a veterinarian in case of head shaking or a bad smell in the ear.
- Monitor for any limping or hopping on a hind leg.
- Ask for the DNA test results of both parents.
Vaccination
Cockapoo vaccines: vaccination schedule
Which vaccines for a Cockapoo? Like all dogs, the Cockapoo receives essential vaccines from 8 weeks old: CHPPi (core vaccine) and Leptospirosis. The puppy primary vaccination for Cockapoo is given in several injections 4 weeks apart, followed by a first booster at 1 year. Depending on its lifestyle (hunting, hiking, boarding, travel, region), your veterinarian may complete the protocol with vaccines against Rabies, Kennel cough, Piroplasmosis, Lyme disease and Leishmaniasis.
| Vaccine | Primary series | First booster | Then | Who for? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
CHPPi (core vaccine)Core Distemper, Rubarth hepatitis, parvovirosis and parainfluenza | 8 weeks · 12 weeks · 3 months | 1 year | every year | All pets |
LeptospirosisCore Leptospirosis (bacterium transmitted by rodent urine and stagnant water) | 8 weeks · 12 weeks | 1 year | every year | All pets |
RabiesLifestyle-based Rabies | 12 weeks | 1 year | every year | Mandatory for travel abroad, categorized dogs, most boarding kennels and shows |
Kennel coughLifestyle-based Bordetella bronchiseptica and parainfluenza | 8 weeks | 1 year | every year | Dogs attending boarding kennels, daycares, dog clubs and shows |
PiroplasmosisLifestyle-based Tick-borne babesiosis | 5 months · 6 months | 1 year | every year | Hunting dogs, dogs living in rural or wooded areas, dogs highly exposed to ticks |
Lyme diseaseLifestyle-based Tick-borne borreliosis | 12 weeks · 3 months | 1 year | every year | Hiking dogs, hunting dogs, forest areas of the East and the Center |
LeishmaniasisLifestyle-based Leishmaniasis transmitted by sandflies | 6 months | 1 year and 6 months | every year | Dogs living or staying in the South of France, Corsica and the Mediterranean basin |
Adult Cockapoo vaccine boosters are annual for leptospirosis and rabies; for distemper, hepatitis, and parvovirus, a booster every three years is often sufficient after the first booster. Your veterinarian will adjust the schedule to your dog’s actual risk.
Which boosters for your Cockapoo?
Enter your companion’s age: we list the vaccines to do now and the next boosters.
Adopting well
Adopting a healthy Cockapoo
Breeding dogs should be tested for progressive retinal atrophy (prcd-PRA DNA test), familial nephropathy in the Cocker, and undergo an eye examination and patella check. In adult dogs, an annual check of the eyes, ears and knees is recommended.
This information is provided for guidance only and does not replace a veterinarian’s advice. If you have any concerns about your pet’s health, consult a professional.
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