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Although purebred canines usually garner the most attention, mixed breeds are becoming more common. The Cockapoo has been one of the most beloved hybrids since the designer dog craze began. In this article, we’ll discuss the origin and history of the Black Cockapoo.
Breed Overview
Height:
16–22 inches
Weight:
25–40 pounds
Lifespan:
12–15 years
Colors:
Red, apricot, cream, white, chocolate, black, merle, tri-colored, tuxedo
Suitable for:
Active families, children, apartment dwellers, and those looking for a social dog
Temperament:
Loving, friendly, intelligent, laid-back, easy to train
The Cockapoo is a cross between a Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle. In the United States, the American Cocker Spaniel is usually used to produce the Cockapoo rather than the English Cocker Spaniel. Cockapoos are available in several coat colors, but one of the most stunning is the Black Cockapoo.
Cockapoo Characteristics
The Earliest Records of Black Cockapoos in History
The earliest records of the Cockapoo start in the 1960s. Many people refer to the Cockapoo as the “earliest designer dog,” but most “purebred” breeds started as designer dogs at some point. While the Cockapoo started to grow in popularity in the 1960s, Poodle and Cocker Spaniels were likely bred together before that time. The Cockapoos simply weren’t viewed as desirable until then.
How Black Cockapoos Gained Popularity
While the first known Cockapoo came about by accident in the 1960s, it’s not hard to see why this hybrid is so popular today. They come in many color variations, but black is one of the most prevalent.
Black Cockapoos are soft, cuddly, hypoallergenic, and incredibly friendly, which are all desirable traits. They’re also relatively small dogs with low exercise requirements, making them excellent for those who want a companion animal and not a working dog.
Formal Recognition of the Black Cockapoo
The Cockapoo is a crossbreed between the Poodle and the Cocker Spaniel, and while both of the parents have received formal AKC recognition, the Cockapoo has not.
The Cockapoo is a “designer breed,” which simply means they’re a highly sought-after crossbreed that doesn’t have any formal recognition. Still, with so many Cockapoos out there, it’s common to have a Cockapoo that came from multiple generations of “purebred” Cockapoos.
Unfortunately, without any formal recognition, no official breed standards can be developed. However, Cockapoo clubs have established their own standards and provide information to breeders to keep their pups healthy. Even though the Cockapoo is an older designer breed, it doesn’t look like any formal recognition of the breed is on the horizon.
Top 5 Unique Facts About the Black Cockapoo
1. Cockapoos Are Hypoallergenic
Since Poodles and Cocker Spaniels have hypoallergenic traits, it doesn’t matter much which parent the Cockapoo takes after more. Cockapoos are also hypoallergenic, but technically, no dog is 100% hypoallergenic.
2. Cockapoos Are Extremely Intelligent
This is another case where it doesn’t matter what parent the puppy takes after. While Poodles are well-known for their intelligence, Cocker Spaniels are smart dogs, too.
3. Cockapoos Can Have Different Traits
This is a big reason that the Cockapoo doesn’t qualify for AKC or any other type of formal registration. Cockapoos can take more after their Poodle or Cocker Spaniel parent, making it hard to know exactly what you’re getting.
This is especially true for first-generation Cockapoos. As the generations continue, the breed will become more homogenized.
4. Cockapoos Are Quiet Dogs
If you want a dog that doesn’t yap much, the Cockapoo is generally an outstanding choice. Compared to many other medium-sized pups, they tend to be a little quieter. But keep in mind that your dog’s personality plays a big role in this, so it’s possible to get a noisy Cockapoo.
5. Cockapoos Range From 12 to 65 Pounds
Cockapoos take after the different traits of their parents. There are miniature and standard Poodles, and this makes for a wide range of size possibilities for Cockapoos. They can be as small as 12 pounds, but you can also find 65-pound Cockapoos!
Whether you want a small or big dog, you can get a Cockapoo.
Does Black Cockapoo Make a Good Pet?
Yes! Not only are Black Cockapoos adorable but they’re also sought after because of their good temperament and behavior. They make great family pets, and they can do well with people with pet allergies. While no dog is completely allergy-free, since Cockapoos don’t shed, they can make a great hypoallergenic choice.
Other traits that make the Black Cockapoo a great family pet are their high intelligence, desire to please, and relatively minimal exercise requirements. They still require a great deal of attention, so only get a Black Cockapoo if you have the time to devote to them.
Summing Up
If you’re looking for a great addition to your home, consider getting a Black Cockapoo. They are affectionate, intelligent, and loyal and make great family pets that you’ll love having around! Pet parents have adored them for over 60 years, and they’re not going to become less popular any time soon!
Featured Image Credit: Kimberley Rennie, Shutterstock
