Origin
Cockapoos were created by crossing two pure breeds, namely the American or English Cocker Spaniel with the Poodle. These charming dogs first appeared on the scene in the 1950's when it is thought that breeders in the States decided to create a low-shedding dog and their endeavours proved a big success with people all over the world. However, some people think they came about by pure accident. Today, the Cockapoo remains one of the most popular "designer dogs" around thanks to their charming looks and their kind, loyal and affectionate natures.
Cockapoos are one of the oldest "designer dogs" around having been developed in the United States back in the fifties. However, it is not clear whether these charming dogs were created on purpose or whether it was by pure accident. Whatever their true origins, the Cockapoo has become a much-loved dog that makes an excellent family pet and companion dog and one that fits in with many life styles. They were first introduced into the UK approximately 10 years ago and were an immediate hit with people all over the country thanks to their charming looks and kind, loyal natures.
Being designer dogs or "hybrids" as they also often referred to, the Cockapoo is not a recognised breed with any of the international breed clubs which includes The Kennel Club here in the UK (June 2016). However, many local breed clubs have been set up all over the world with an end goal being to make sure Cockapoos are bred responsibly so that puppies are healthier with less risk of them developing any of the congenital and hereditary health concerns that affect their parent breeds.
With this in mind, it's really important for potential owners to contact responsible breeders who routinely have all their stud dogs checked for any hereditary disorders which is the only way of reducing the risk of puppies developing any of the conditions. With this said, no matter how carefully bred a Cockapoo happens to be, there is never any guarantee they won't develop a congenital or hereditary disorder during the course of their lives. It does however, reduce the chance of this happening.
