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Cockapoo: temperament, health and care
Cockapoo: temperament, exercise and grooming needs, common health problems and who this dog suits.
This is general information for the UK. It is not veterinary or legal advice, and every animal is different. Speak to a vet about your pet's health. The Be Pet Wise app can also show rules for other countries.
At a glance
| Size | Small to medium, about 6–11 kg (depends on the poodle parent) |
|---|---|
| Typical lifespan | 12–15 years |
| Exercise | Moderate to high: at least an hour a day plus play |
| Grooming | Wavy or curly coat: brush several times a week and professional grooming every 6–8 weeks |
Temperament and who it suits
Friendly, energetic and sociable; usually keen to please.
Often suits: active families and owners who can meet grooming needs.
A crossbreed, so size, coat and temperament vary more than in a pedigree. "Hypoallergenic" claims are not reliable.
Health problems to know about
- Ear infections
- Progressive retinal atrophy (an inherited eye disease)
- Hip dysplasia
- Kneecap problems
Individuals vary. Ask breeders about health testing, and keep up with vet checks, vaccination and weight control.
Before you get a Cockapoo
- See the puppy with its mother, where it was born
- Ask about health tests on the parents for the conditions above
- Check it is microchipped and registered by eight weeks old
- Consider adopting: breed rescues and rehoming centres often have dogs of this breed looking for homes
See buying a puppy or kitten: Lucy's Law and your rights.
Care, law and costs
See our general guide to dogs for feeding, the law in the UK, what it costs and emergencies, and our guides to microchipping law and toxic foods and plants.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a Cockapoo live?
A Cockapoo typically lives 12–15 years. Individual health, diet and weight all matter.
How much exercise does a Cockapoo need?
Moderate to high: at least an hour a day plus play.
What health problems are common in a Cockapoo?
Common concerns include ear infections, progressive retinal atrophy (an inherited eye disease), hip dysplasia and kneecap problems. Ask breeders about health testing, and keep up with vet checks.
How much grooming does a Cockapoo need?
Wavy or curly coat: brush several times a week and professional grooming every 6–8 weeks.
Who does a Cockapoo suit?
It often suits active families and owners who can meet grooming needs. A crossbreed, so size, coat and temperament vary more than in a pedigree. "Hypoallergenic" claims are not reliable.
Similar dogs
Sources
- The Royal Kennel Club: breed information and health schemes
- BSAVA: Microchipping legislation in the UK
- Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council: Lucy's Law
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Open Be Pet WiseBrowse all guidesReviewed 2026-09-23. General information for the UK, not veterinary or legal advice. See how we check.