Labradoodle Vs Cockapoo | Popular Poodle Mixes Compared

To most people, every Poodle hybrid has the same characteristics, including the Labradoodle and the Cockapoo. Although these dogs inherited some traits from their Poodle parents, they also inherited other characteristics from the other line of ancestry. These make them different from one another. Aside from their appearance and size, they also vary in terms of personality and temperament. One may be more suitable for you. So, how will you know which pooch to get?

Labradoodle Vs Cockapoo

Appearance

The Labradoodle is famous for its medium-size body and long coat. Generally, these dogs have a woolly, poodle-like coat that can come out curly or wavy. These dogs have a more rounded muzzle and head, compared to the Cockapoo who inherited the pointy snout of the Cocker Spaniel.

The Cockapoo is known for its soft curly hair and pleading eyes which accentuate its cute appearance. They have longer and straighter hair than the Labradoodle who has a dense and curly coat like their Poodle parents.

Origin

The Labradoodle was created in Australia in 1989, due to the need for service dogs in the country. During this time, breeders wanted to create a hypoallergenic dog that possesses the helpful and athletic nature of the Labrador Retriever.

The Cockapoo, on the other hand, originated in the United States earlier than the Labradoodle. The Cockerpoo was created way back in the 1960s when breeders wanted to create an easy-going, hypoallergenic dog that possesses the sweet nature of the Cocker Spaniel. After many trials, people finally created a standard that eventually captured the hearts of people worldwide.

Size

Labradoodles are medium-sized dogs. Males can grow from 22 to 24 inches and weigh 60 to 65 pounds. Female Labradoodles, on the other hand, can grow from 21 to 23 inches and way from 45 to 50 pounds.

Cockerpoos, on the other hand, are small breeds. Males can grow from 12 to 14 inches and weigh 13 to 18 pounds. Females, on the other hand, can grow from 11 to 13 inches and weigh 13 to 16 pounds.

Seeing the differences in size alone, you can assess how you can care for them. Since Labradoodles are larger, they need more food to sustain the energy they need every day.

Lifespan

The Labradoodle has a lifespan of 12-14 years, while the Cockapoo can live from 12 to 15 years. Both of these hybrids have long lives. Did you know that some can even live up to 19 or 20 years? It all depends on how you care for them.

Personality

Most Labradoodles inherit more traits from the Poodle than the Labrador. Because of this, they are cautious, alert, and instinctual. However, some of them incline towards the characteristics of the Labrador which are kind, intelligent, even-tempered, trusting, and gentle.

The Cockapoo, on the other hand, is always happy to be alive. They are the life of the party. To them, every day is a celebration. When they see people, their first instinct is to greet them with smiling faces and wagging tails.

Shedding

These dogs are considered low-shedders because of their Poodle parents. However, the Labradoodle may shed more if it inherits the dense fur and undercoat of the Labrador. If you plan to get a Labradoodle, prepare your de-shedding tools. Time may come in a year that their hair will cause a mess in the household. But this is nothing that functional de-shedding tools can fix.

Grooming

Both the Labradoodle and the Cockapoo need regular grooming. If you plan to get either or both, prepare a comb for these dogs. If the dog’s coat grows longer and denser, you will need to brush its hair at least twice a week. But if their coat comes sleek and straight, you can brush them once or twice – sometimes only when the need arises.

Intelligence

The Labradoodle and the Cockapoo are both intelligent. They have a knack to do things on their own. Most times, their initiative leads them to help their masters and make them happy. That’s why people love both of these dogs.

Trainability

When it comes to trainability, these dogs are rated 4 out of 5. Both the Labradoodle and the Cockapoo can be stubborn, especially when they’re not in the mood. But you shouldn’t let them slack off, especially when they need the training. If you let them do what they want, they could develop negative traits that can affect your companionship.

Temperament

The temperament of the Labradoodle and the Cockapoo depends on their upbringing. If you want to raise a secure and even-tempered dog, you need to train your pooch accordingly. It’s best to teach them proper doggy etiquette. If not, these dogs are prone to small dog syndrome. This is a behavioral problem among dogs characterized by extreme stubbornness and jealousy. This behavioral problem makes them think that they’re the boss. Instead of training them, they might end up training you instead.

Family Life

If you plan on getting either or both of these dogs, they need constant bonding with their family. This includes involving them in different familial activities such as hiking and swimming. You can also take them to grocery stores and shopping malls. The Labradoodle and the Cockapoo both enjoy the adventure. If you love it too, both are ideal for you.

Apartment Living

The Labradoodle and the Cockapoo can adjust to apartment living. However, like any other dog, you still need to give them the exercise they need. Just thirty minutes a day will suffice for these pooches. It is essential to keep their bodies healthy and their minds stimulated.

Friendliness Towards Strangers

Both the Labradoodle and the Cockapoo are friendly towards strangers. If you love having guests at home, you can never go wrong in choosing one or both. They do not display aggression to visitors. In fact, the Labradoodle and the Cockapoo will greet them with wagging tails and smiling faces.

Watchdog Ability

If you live in a dangerous neighborhood, neither of these dogs can protect you or alarm you from intruders. They may bark from time to time but only when they express their needs. Don’t expect them to bark at strangers who enter your home. If you live in these areas, better get a qualified watchdog to keep you and your property safe.

Tolerance To Weather

The Labradoodle and the Cockapoo can tolerate hot and cold weather. However, you still need to give them shelter to keep them from getting sick. When it’s warm, give them water to keep them hydrated. If it’s cold, remember to give them a warm place to stay.

Health

Like other dogs, the Labradoodle and the Cockapoo are prone to several diseases. They are both prone to allergies, epilepsy, dysplasia, and ear infections. To prevent these, regular checkups with a reliable vet are necessary. They can also assist you on how you can care for these dogs to ensure their good health.

Caring for the Labradoodle can be more costly because it is larger so prepare an average of $500 to $700 annually. Caring for a Cockapoo, on the other hand, costs a little less, on average $300 to $500 a year. All these include their vet needs, checkups, food, and supplies. If you want to save more, learn how to groom your pooch, and provide for their needs. This way, you can ensure their health without worrying about them getting sick.

There you have it. These are some of the differences between the Labradoodle and the Cockapoo. If you think you can get one or both, why not? There’s nothing that compares to the happiness that these dogs can offer you.