Cockapoo
Training

Cockapoos are naturally energetic and thrive on both physical activity and mental stimulation. As a rule of thumb, an adult Cockapoo requires 60–90 minutes of daily exercise, split between brisk walks, interactive play, and structured training sessions.

Because this breed is part Poodle, they’re exceptionally intelligent and easily bored. A short training session or scent game is often more effective than another long walk. Over-exercising can make a young Cockapoo overtired and overstimulated, which often leads to restless behaviour at home.

We teach owners how to channel energy constructively through calm, controlled activities — so you end up with a relaxed companion rather than a hyperactive one.

The best time to start Cockapoo puppy training is as soon as your pup comes home — usually around 8–10 weeks old. Early, positive training helps your puppy settle, bond, and learn what’s expected. We focus on early socialisation, toilet training, lead introduction, and basic manners in short, engaging sessions.

Cockapoos respond beautifully to praise and play-based learning. Our team uses kind but effective methods that build confidence from day one. Starting early prevents habits like jumping up, barking, and pulling before they even begin.

A structured routine from the start is the foundation of a well-mannered adult Cockapoo.

Absolutely – Cockapoos are among the most trainable companion breeds thanks to their intelligence, social nature, and desire to please their owners. As a cross between a Poodle (renowned for exceptional intelligence and problem-solving skills) and a Cocker Spaniel (valued for its focus and willingness to work), the Cockapoo inherits the best of both worlds: clever, responsive, and eager to learn.

Their natural curiosity and affectionate temperament make training both enjoyable and rewarding. Whether you’re working on basic obedience, recall training, or more advanced commands, Cockapoos generally respond quickly when taught with patience and positive reinforcement. This means rewarding desired behaviours with treats, verbal praise, or play—never punishment.

However, it’s important to remember that Cockapoos are also highly people-oriented and can develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods. Their love for human company can sometimes lead to overexcitement, distractibility, or even stubborn streaks during training sessions. For that reason, keeping lessons short, fun, and consistent will yield the best results. Early socialisation is another vital aspect of Cockapoo training.

Introducing your puppy to new sights, sounds, people, and dogs helps prevent nervousness or unwanted behaviours like barking or jumping up. A confident, well-socialised Cockapoo grows into a calm and well-mannered adult.

Cockapoos are easy to train when you understand what motivates them—gentle guidance, structure, and positive energy. With the right approach, your Cockapoo will not only master obedience but also become a confident, happy member of your family.

Consistency and variety are key. Cockapoos have excellent problem-solving skills, but they lose interest quickly if training becomes predictable. We recommend short, high-impact sessions — 10 to 15 minutes — using a mix of commands, play, and scent games.

In our professional programmes, we teach owners how to use food, praise, and toy rewards effectively, and how to read subtle changes in body language to know when to pause or change approach.

We also integrate mental enrichment — tasks that challenge your dog’s brain — to prevent frustration and boredom. A mentally tired Cockapoo is a happy, well-behaved dog.

Cockapoos are known for their affectionate and social nature, which means they generally dislike being left alone for long periods. If left alone too often or for too long, they can develop separation anxiety, leading to unwanted behaviours like excessive barking, destructive chewing, and even indoor accidents.

However, with proper Cockapoo training, you can help your pup become more independent. Gradual desensitisation techniques, crate training, and providing mental stimulation—such as puzzle toys and interactive feeders—can make alone time more manageable for your furry friend.

Ideally, a Cockapoo shouldn’t be left alone for more than 4-6 hours at a time, and it’s essential to build up their tolerance gradually. If you have a demanding schedule, hiring a dog sitter, arranging playdates, or using a doggy daycare service can be great alternatives to ensure your Cockapoo stays happy and stress-free.

Yes! Cockapoos are playful, affectionate, and gentle, making them an excellent choice for families with children. They thrive in social environments and often form strong bonds with their human siblings. Their fun-loving nature means they’ll happily join in on games, whether it’s a run around the yard or a cozy cuddle on the couch.

However, as with any breed, early socialisation and training are essential. Teaching both your Cockapoo and your children how to interact safely and respectfully is crucial. Young children should learn to handle dogs gently—avoiding pulling ears or tails—and your Cockapoo should be trained to be patient and well-mannered around kids. Through positive reinforcement training, Cockapoos quickly learn commands like “gentle” and “stay,” which can help create a harmonious relationship between them and your little ones.

While Cockapoos generally have a fantastic temperament, supervision is always recommended, especially with toddlers, to ensure playtime remains safe and enjoyable for everyone.

Jumping up is a common greeting behaviour for Cockapoos — they’re social, friendly, and excited to say hello. The trick is to teach them that calm behaviour earns attention. We replace the jumping habit with a “sit” or “four paws on the floor” routine before greetings.

During our sessions, we help you manage triggers like visitors, returning home, or outdoor excitement. By reinforcing calmness and controlling access to attention, most Cockapoos stop jumping up within a couple of weeks. The key is consistency from everyone in the household — including guests!

Cockapoos are naturally alert and intelligent, which means they may bark to communicate excitement, warn of strangers, or express boredom. While they’re not considered excessive barkers, some individuals may develop nuisance barking if not properly trained or mentally stimulated.

The key to controlling barking lies in early Cockapoo training. Teaching commands like “quiet” or redirecting their energy into puzzle toys, interactive games, or exercise can prevent excessive noise. If your Cockapoo is barking out of boredom, increasing their daily activity—such as longer walks or agility training—can work wonders.

If barking is triggered by separation anxiety, using crate training, leaving background noise (such as a radio or TV), or hiring a dog walker can help ease their distress. Since Cockapoos are highly people-oriented, they thrive on human companionship, and ensuring they receive adequate socialisation and mental stimulation will keep their barking at a manageable level.

Cockapoos are generally healthy and long-lived dogs, often reaching 12-15 years with proper care. However, like all breeds, they can be prone to certain hereditary health issues inherited from their Poodle and Cocker Spaniel lineage.

Some common health concerns include:

• Hip Dysplasia: A common condition in many breeds where the hip joint doesn’t fit properly, leading to pain and mobility issues. Maintaining a healthy weight and regular, low-impact exercise can help manage this.
  
  
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): A genetic eye disorder that can lead to blindness over time. Regular veterinary check-ups can help detect early signs.
  
  
• Ear Infections: Due to their floppy ears, Cockapoos are prone to ear infections. Regular cleaning and drying their ears after swimming or baths can prevent bacterial buildup.
  
  
• Allergies & Skin Conditions: Cockapoos may experience food or environmental allergies, leading to itching and irritation. A high-quality diet and regular grooming can help manage skin sensitivity.
  
  
• Luxating Patella: A condition where the kneecap moves out of place, common in small to medium-sized dogs. Keeping your Cockapoo active and fit can help prevent this issue.

Preventative care is key! Regular vet visits, a balanced diet, exercise, and proper grooming can help minimise these risks and keep your Cockapoo in top shape.