If you want an adorable, energetic canine pal, the Cockapoo mixed breed can be an affectionate and fun-loving addition to your household. But will a Cockapoo also bring a lot of hair into your home?
In this guide, we’ll explore Cockapoo shedding in detail. We’ll talk about how much Cockapoos shed, why they shed, and how you can manage their grooming to minimize hair, dander and allergies in your home.
But first, let’s talk a little bit more about Cockapoo genetics and coats.
Cockapoo Genetics and Shedding
So, you want to learn more about Cockapoo shedding? It all starts with an understanding of the Cockapoo breed. Cockapoos are a crossbreed, mixing the genetics of the American Cocker Spaniel and Poodle.
What to Know About Cockapoo Coats
Because they are a mixed breed, Cockapoos’ coats can vary significantly depending on what traits they inherit.
In some cases, Cockapoos have straight coats. This happens when the Cocker Spaniel genes are expressed. In others, they have wavy or curly coats. This can occur when the Poodle genes are more dominant.
Grooming needs depend on the texture of the coat. Cockapoos with relatively straight coats require less maintenance. If you brush their coats several times a week and bathe them once every couple of months, you should be good to go.
But if your Cockapoo has wavy or curly hair, he’ll need more frequent brushings to prevent matting. The upside is that he may shed less in general.
Multi-Generational Cockapoo Coats
Now, one more thing that is important to know about Cockapoo coats and genetics is that the generation of your dog matters too.
A crossbred dog from a Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle is known as a "first-generation Cockapoo."
A dog that was bred by two first-generation Cockapoos is a second-generation Cockapoo. Cockapoos can continue breeding down the line, producing successive generations that are more and more removed from the original Spaniels and Poodles.
On the whole, it is hardest to predict what type of coat a first generation Cockapoo will have. It can be easier to guess what type of coat you will get with a multi-generational Cockapoo, especially by the fourth or fifth generation.
Multi-generational Cockapoos also tend to shed less than first-generation Cockapoos. But can I be honest with you? Even multiple generations down the line, there are no guarantees. So, it is best to be prepared for some degree of unpredictability when going through a breeder.
That being said, we do encourage you to consider adoption. When you adopt a Cockapoo, you already know what type of coat you will be managing, and you will be giving a dog in need a forever home.
How Often Do Cockapoos Shed?
Here’s the good news. On average, Cockapoos are low shedders. That being said, they do shed on an ongoing basis, like all other dogs.
Why Do Cockapoos Shed?
Cockapoos shed more at some times than others. Here are some reasons your Cockapoo might be shedding more than usual:
Are Cockapoos Hypoallergenic?
Now you know that Cockapoos are relatively low shedders—great. But are they hypoallergenic?
The quick answer is no. But here’s the thing—the same is true of every other breed of dog.
The idea that some dogs are "hypoallergenic" Is a myth. Technically, any dog can cause allergic reactions because every dog sheds hair and dander.
The American Kennel Club explains, “‘Hypoallergenic’ dog breeds are often defined as those that either don’t shed or are hairless. ‘Breeds in the past thought of as being ‘hypoallergenic’ are really breeds or types of dogs with minimal shedding or whose type of hair (or lack of hair) may cause less possibility to create a reaction due to the type of coat that breed has,’ affirms AKC Chief Veterinary Officer Dr. Jerry Klein.”
Since Cockapoos shed less than many other species, they are often an ideal choice for those who suffer from allergies. In fact, VCA Hospitals writes, “Although no breed is non-allergenic, the Cockapoo may cause fewer allergies in people compared to other breeds.”
So, guess what? Even though this mixed bred isn’t technically hypoallergenic, it is the next closest thing.
How to Manage Cockapoo Shedding
My Cockapoo's fur on the floor. The texture is typical of most Cockapoos, soft and silky.
You can minimize issues with allergies by managing your Cockapoo’s coat. Want to know how? Let’s go over a few simple recommendations.
1. Diet and Supplements
A healthy coat starts with a healthy diet. What does this hybrid breed need to eat?
The Cockapoo Club of GB says, “When considering which food is the right one for your Cockapoo, you will first need to decide what type of food appeals most and fits best into your lifestyle.”
The club suggests several possibilities, including Biologically Appropriate Raw Food (BARF), wet foods and dry foods. In all cases, the club recommends you shop carefully for brands that use natural, wholesome ingredients.
A well-rounded, natural diet will help your dog look and feel his best. The result should be a full, lustrous coat.
A quick word of warning: Cockapoos can put on weight easily. So, make sure that while your dog gets plenty of healthy food, he isn't overeating.
2. Bathing
As mentioned before, you are going to want to bathe your Cockapoo once every couple of months. Some people do it more often because it can help with brushing.
But what kind of shampoo should you use?
We recommend that you pick an oatmeal-based shampoo like this one. The oatmeal is excellent for skin that has become itchy or dry and can prevent both of those issues going forward.
From a hypoallergenic standpoint, that is helpful because it means less flaking. This particular shampoo is also infused with aloe, cucumber and melon. So it has a refreshing, clean scent.
3. Brushing and Trimming
The Cockapoo Club provides detailed instructions for grooming this breed. The club explains, “Leave all hair naturally long (preferred) or if scissoring coat leave it at least 2 inches long. Trim hair on top of nose and under eyes to make eyes visible and mustache prominent. Leave goatee full length. Scissor top knot hair just enough to keep out from in front of the eyes. Shaving around genitals, rectum and belly aids in cleanliness. Shave under the pads of the feet, but do not make Poodle feet. Leave tail full and natural.”
This is technically just “a” way to groom a Cockapoo—not the only way. There are many ways to cut and style a Cockapoo’s hair.
That being said, the recommendation about taking special care around the nose, eyes and genitals is universal. You should also trim carefully around the mouth. Make sure you are also keeping up with cleaning ears and trimming toenails.
One helpful grooming tool you are not going to want to be without is a slicker brush. Our recommendation is the Hertzko Self Cleaning Slicker Brush. This brush can help you to detangle your pet’s coat and remove mats. It also does a great job of getting rid of dander and debris.
What is fantastic about this particular brush is how easy it is to clean. As the name indicates, it has a special function for removing the fur and dander. The bristles retract when you push a button, and you can then dispose of the fur and dander.
What if you encounter particularly stubborn mats? In some cases, the best solution is to remove them with scissors and then resume brushing.
After you finish brushing the coat, you can use a clipper to trim. Once you finish with the trimming, you'll want to go over the fur with your slicker again and then comb it out. Shears or a razor can help you with any uneven spots.
The trimming process takes time and patience, and you need to do it every 6-12 weeks. Don't forget that even though you don't need to trim your dog's fur weekly, you need to brush it 2-3 times a week, or the mats will build up.
4. Invest In A Vacuum Cleaner
Equally important is the need to clean your furniture and house thoroughly. This is the best way to reduce the effects of allergies due to dog fur. So, if you own a cockapoo, you’ll need to use an effective and efficient vacuum cleaner that will get rid of all the dog hairs and dandruff. We suggest the ORFELD Cordless Vacuum which is reliable and can get to hard to reach places like inside Fido's bed. We’ve used it for years with our Cockapoos and our friends with allergies are never uncomfortable at our place.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cockapoo Shedding
Q: How much grooming do Cockapoo puppies require?
A: If you have a Cockapoo puppy, it is a wise idea to brush his coat around 4-5 times weekly. Each session should last about 10 minutes.
You will discover it doesn't take that much grooming to maintain your puppy's coat—but the extra time is good for training him to enjoy the grooming process. It'll make him more patient with adult grooming sessions.
Q: Do I need to take my Cockapoo to a professional groomer?
A: While you can take care of regular brushings and trimmings on your own, it is a good idea to visit a professional annually.
Q: What are some of the best haircuts for this breed of dog?
A: There are many haircuts that are widely recommended for the Cockapoo. Here are a few ideas:
Q: What can I do if my dog won't stand still while brushing or trimming?
A: Don't rush the process of brushing or trimming if your dog is new to it—you'll only intimidate him. Instead, introduce the tools you'll be using gradually. When he checks them out—or tolerates you approaching him with them—give him a treat.
Hopefully, he will get used to grooming eventually and come to enjoy it as quality bonding time with his favorite human.
Conclusion
That wraps it up! You now know all about Cockapoo shedding and grooming. This hybrid breed tends to be low on shedding, which is great if you want a hypoallergenic pet.
By keeping up with your dog’s grooming needs, you can prevent tangles and mats, soothe sensitive skin, prevent flaking, and keep hair and dandruff shedding down to a minimum.
Multi-generational Cockapoos tend to shed less and have more predictable coats than their first generational counterparts. But even with a first generational Cockapoo, the chances are good that your dog will shed less than many other breeds.
Whether you go to a breeder or adopt from your local shelter, a Cockapoo is an allergy-friendly pet that will become a playful, loving and beloved member of your family.