Considering A Cockatoo? Here's Info About The Cockapoo Lifespan

A cockapoo is an adorable cross between a cocker spaniel and a poodle, melding the sweetness and intelligence of both breeds into one. These spunky little dogs can live up to 16 years or more with regular veterinary care, a good diet, and regular exercise.

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Known for their perky personality and curly, low-shed, odorless coat, cockapoos are a popular mixed-breed dog. While some adult dogs can weigh as much as 65 pounds, others may be as little as 2 pounds due to the many sizes of poodles that produce them. No matter what your cockapoo's size, expect to spend many years with your new canine companion.

The average cocker spaniel has a life span of around 10 to 14 years or more, while the average poodle of any size has a life span of 10 to 18 years or more. This means that the cockapoo life span should range between 10 and 16 years or more.

Because there are several sizes of poodles, including toy, miniature, and standard poodles, the size of your cockapoo can vary too. Although all poodles have a life span of around 10 to 18 years, smaller dogs tend to have a longer life span than larger ones. Therefore, your cockapoo may live longer if he is on the smaller side rather than the larger side of the spectrum. Some cockapoos have even lived into their 20s.

Although the cockapoo lifespan is long because most cockapoos are hardy dogs, there are some health issues that run in both poodles and cocker spaniels that may affect the cockapoo life span. Issues like hip dysplasia, luxating patellas, eye disorders, epilepsy, immune disorders, and von Willebrand's disease may affect toy poodles and can also affect cockapoos. Hip issues, luxating patellas, and eye disorders can affect cocker spaniels and could affect cockapoos.

Other issues that could affect your cockapoo include liver disease and allergies. In addition, cocker spaniels are prone to developing ear infections due to their floppy ears, a characteristic shared by cockapoos. To prevent issues with the ears, clean them regularly.

When purchasing or adopting your cockapoo, ask for the health records of her parents. This can help you predict the health of their offspring. Although cockapoos aren't purebred dogs, most reputable breeders registered with the American Cockapoo Club's registry should have this information available.

To ensure that your cockapoo lives her best, healthiest, and longest life, bring your canine companion in for annual checkups with a veterinarian. These exams will help catch any health issues that might pop up early on so that you can medicate or otherwise treat these issues and keep your dog in tiptop shape.

You'll also want to clean your cockapoo's teeth regularly with daily brushing. Regular dental care and annual veterinary cleanings will not only keep your dog's breath fresh but will extend your cockapoo's life span.

The best way to help your cockapoo live longer is to feed your pup a high-quality dog food according to the directions on the package for your dog's size. That's because you don't want to overfeed your dog. Cockapoos are small- to medium-size dogs who can easily pack on the pounds with too much food and daily treats, and being obese can quickly reduce your dog's life span.

Another way to keep your dog healthy for many years to come is to give your dog enough exercise each day. The average cockapoo needs around 15 minutes of exercise each day. To exercise your dog, put aside this time for a few fun games, like fetch, and some walks outdoors. Some cockapoos may even enjoy a dip in the pool or lake because poodles are excellent swimmers.