Breed profile

Cockapoo: size, sleep, exercise and care

A cross between a Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle. Cockapoos are friendly and clever, but as a crossbreed they vary a lot in size, coat and temperament.

Last reviewed

Cockapoo

At a glance

Size
Medium
Adult weight
8–15 kg
Life expectancy
12–16 years
Exercise needs
High · 60 min per day

Sleep needs

Typical total sleep per 24 hours, including naps.

PuppyAdultSenior
18–20 h12–14 h12–15 h

These are general life-stage ranges for dogs from the AKC and Hill's; no study gives a separate figure for the Cockapoo. Individual dogs vary, and a sudden change in how much your dog sleeps is worth mentioning to your vet.

Exercise needs

Battersea describes Cockapoos as having high exercise needs of around an hour a day plus daily mental stimulation. Both parent breeds are working dogs, so sniffing games, retrieving and training matter as much as the walk itself. Smaller Cockapoos from toy Poodle crosses may need less; larger ones often want more.

Potty training

Cockapoo puppies are usually eager to learn and respond well to praise and food. Keep a regular routine: out after sleep, meals and play, and every hour or two while awake at first.

Smaller Cockapoos have smaller bladders and may need more frequent trips. Some young Cockapoos wee when excited, a trait common in spaniels; calm greetings help.

Feeding

Because size varies so much, feed according to your own dog's weight and body condition, not a breed average. Young puppies need three to four meals a day, adults two.

Battersea notes that Cockapoos are more prone to long-term digestive issues and food sensitivities. Change foods gradually, keep a note of any reactions, and talk to your vet if stools stay loose or the skin gets itchy.

Why the numbers vary

The Cockapoo is not a recognised breed with a standard, so there is no official size. Battersea gives a typical range of 8–15 kg and 12–16 years, while Hill's notes that miniature-type Cockapoos can be under 9 kg and maxi types bred from Standard Poodles can be much heavier. Ask the breeder which Poodle size was used to get an idea of your puppy's adult size.

Frequently asked questions

How big will my Cockapoo get?

Most weigh 8–15 kg according to Battersea, but it depends on the Poodle parent: toy and miniature crosses stay smaller, standard Poodle crosses can be much larger.

How much exercise does a Cockapoo need?

Around an hour a day plus mental stimulation, according to Battersea.

Sources

  1. Cockapoo — Battersea Dogs & Cats Home
  2. Cockapoo dog breed information — Hill's Pet Nutrition
  3. How much do puppies sleep? — American Kennel Club
  4. How much should my dog sleep per day? — Hill's Pet Nutrition
  5. Can senior dogs sleep too much? — American Kennel Club
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