Get

In Your Inbox

Dogster is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more.

How to Groom a Cockapoo: 9 Expert Tips

Asian woman dog owner are bathing furry dogs

Born from two different breeds of dogs, the Cockapoo is a delightful mix of the Cocker Spaniel and Poodle. Often considered one of the best family dogs out there, the Cockapoo is outgoing, intelligent, and loving. They make great playmates for children and get along well with other pets in the household.

Their low-shedding coat is another big selling point for the Cockapoo, especially for those whose Poodle genes dominate. Still, Cockapoos need regular grooming to keep them looking and feeling their best. Use these tips to make the process fun and easy for both you and your pup!

dogster paw divider

How Often Should I Groom My Cockapoo?

Thanks to their genetics, Cockapoos can have flat, straight, or tightly curled coats. How often you groom your Cockapoo will depend on the type of coat they have.

brown cockapoo puppy in the garden
Image Credit: Lee Ph, Shutterstock

Flat Coat

Cockapoos with flat coats take after their spaniel parent and don’t require much grooming. You can get away with brushing them two to three times per week.

Straight Coat

The difference between a flat and a straight coat is that a straight coat is denser. Cockapoos with this coat type require almost daily brushing plus regular clipping a few times a year.

Tight Curls

Cockapoos look adorable with those Poodle ringlets, but those tight curls require a lot of work to maintain. Otherwise, they’ll eventually into dreadlocks and create painful mats that can be hard to get out. Daily brushing, regular bathing, and professional grooming every 6 to 8 weeks are a must for these pups.

dogster face divider

How to Groom a Cockapoo

No matter what type of coat your Cockapoo has, there are some general grooming tips that all owners should follow:

1. Use the Right Grooming Tools

There are a few essential tools you’ll need to groom your Cockapoo, including the following:
  • Slicker Brush: This is a basic, everyday brush that’s a must for every Cockapoo owner.
  • Mat Rake: This tool helps to remove mats and tangles from your dog’s coat by breaking them up into smaller pieces.
  • Pin Brush: This is a great option for finishing off after using a slicker brush or mat rake. It helps to add shine and polish to the coat.
  • Detangling Shampoo and Conditioner: Regardless of your Cockapoo’s coat type, use shampoo and conditioner that is specially formulated to help loosen tangles and mats. These products also contain ingredients that help to moisturize and protect the coat.
  • Blow Dryer: Choose a quiet, low-heat blow dryer to help speed up the drying process after bathing.
  • Nail Clippers: You’ll need these to trim your Cockapoo’s nails on a regular basis.
  • Cotton Balls: Keep a few on hand in case you need to use them to clean your dog’s ears.

Finally, get their favorite treats ready! Positive reinforcement is key when grooming your Cockapoo, so have some treats on hand to give them when they behave well.

Our Favorite Products

Selecting the right shampoo and conditioner makes the world of a difference when grooming your pup. Our favorite products are the duo by Hepper. The Oatmeal Pet Shampoo is formulated with aloe and oatmeal to soothe skin and hydrate the coat. The Pet Conditioner works at eliminating tangles and taming frizz and static. Both products are pH-balanced and formulated with pet-friendly ingredients, free of harsh soaps, chemicals, and dyes. Give this duo a try to heal and nourish your dog's coat, and leave them with an irresistible just-left-the-spa cucumber and aloe scent. 

Image Product Details
Hepper Oatmeal Pet Shampoo Hepper Oatmeal Pet Shampoo
  • Safe for Dogs & Cats
  • Lightly Scented
  • Soothing Oatmeal
  • Hepper Pet Conditioner Hepper Pet Conditioner
  • Detangles and reduces friction
  • Nourishing, coconut-based formula
  • pH balanced
  • At Dogster, we’ve admired Hepper for many years and decided to take a controlling ownership interest so that we could benefit from the outstanding designs of this cool pet company!

     


    2. Get Them Comfortable Around Your Grooming Tools

    If this is your first time grooming your Cockapoo, take some time to let them get familiar with the tools you’ll be using. Let them sniff and explore each tool on their own, and try to make it fun for them.

    For instance, you can use the slicker brush to give them a nice back massage. Praise and treat them generously whenever they show positive associations with the grooming process.


    3. Start With a Basic Brushing

    Asian woman owner grooming hair dryer to dry Cockapoo dog hair in house
    Image Credit: MT.PHOTOSTOCK, Shutterstock

    Once your Cockapoo is comfortable with the tools, it’s time to start the actual grooming process. Begin by using a slicker brush to work through their entire coat, paying special attention to any mats or tangles. Don’t force the brush through any knots. Instead, gently work them out with your fingers.

    If you come across extra stubborn mats, use the mat rake to break through the tangles. Then, use the slicker brush to work through those smaller knots until they’re gone.

    After you’ve brushed their entire coat, go over it with a pin brush to get rid of any loose hair and double-check that you’ve gotten all the tangles out.


    4. Give Them a Bath

    We recommend bathing your Cockapoo only after you’ve brushed them out. Otherwise, getting those mats and knots wet will only make them tighter.

    When you are ready to bathe them, use warm water to wet their coat thoroughly. Apply shampoo using your fingers, making sure to work it in well and avoid their eyes. Give their paws, genitals, and bottom a good wash, too.

    Once you’re satisfied that their coat is clean, rinse them off completely and apply conditioner. Work it through their coat as well as you can. Since most conditioners require you to leave it on for a few minutes, this is the perfect time to give your Cockapoo a relaxing massage.

    After the conditioner has had time to sink in, rinse your Cockapoo off one last time. Gently squeeze their coat to remove as much water as possible, then wrap them in a towel and pat them dry.


    5. Finish With a Blow Dry

    Asian woman owner grooming hair dryer to dry Cockapoo dog hair
    Image Credit: MT.PHOTOSTOCK, Shutterstock

    Use a low-heat blow dryer to help speed up the drying process. Start from the back and work your way forward, using your fingers to help detangle your coat as you go.

    Be sure to hold the blow dryer about 12 inches away from their coat at all times, and keep it moving so that you don’t accidentally burn them. Once their coat is mostly dry, give them a good brush-out and they’re all set.


    6. Trim Their Nails

    Use a pair of nail clippers to trim your Cockapoo’s nails regularly. You can do this while they’re drying off after their bath or at any other time that’s convenient for you.

    Start with just a small trim, taking care not to cut too close to the quick (the pink part of their nail). If you’re not sure how much to trim off, err on the side of caution—you can always trim more later if needed. Cockapoos typically need their nails trimmed every 4 to 6 weeks.

    If you’re uncertain about trimming your dog’s nails or are uncomfortable doing so, consult a veterinarian for guidance.

    Did you know you can talk to a vet online? Click on the image or button below to schedule a call: PangoVet_Mention-in-Content Savings V1



    7. Clean Their Ears

    Use a cotton ball with a few drops of pet-friendly ear cleaner to wipe the inside of your Cockapoo’s ears. Be gentle, and avoid going too deep into their ear canal.

    If you see any dirt, wax, or other buildups in their ears, use a cotton ball to remove it gently. Never insert anything sharp or pointy into your dog’s ears—this could damage their ear canal.


    8. Brush Their Teeth

    Use a canine toothbrush and toothpaste to brush your Cockapoo’s teeth at least once a week. This will help prevent gum disease and keep their breath fresh.

    If you’re not used to brushing your dog’s teeth, start slowly and increase the frequency and duration of your brushing sessions gradually. Always use canine-specific toothpaste because human toothpaste can be harmful to dogs.


    9. Trim Their Coat

    Asian woman grooming puppy cockapoo dog
    Photo Credit: MT.PHOTOSTOCK, Shutterstock

    If you’re confident in your grooming skills, you can trim your Cockapoo’s coat at home. If not, we recommend leaving this to the professionals. Trim the fur around their eyes, ears, and hindquarters as needed to keep their coat looking neat.

    dogster paw divider

    Final Thoughts

    Cockapoos may not shed as much as other breeds, but their coats still need regular TLC. This goes beyond looks—brushing and grooming your Cockapoo regularly will prevent painful knots, mats, and tangles from forming, and it is also a good way to spot any potential health issues early on.

    The best approach to grooming your Cockapoo is to treat it as a bonding session. This is a great time to give them some extra attention and affection while strengthening your bond at the same time. So, get out your brushes, combs, and shampoo and enjoy some quality time with your furry friend!


    Featured Image Credit: MT.PHOTOSTOCK, Shutterstock

    How useful was this post?

    Click on a star to rate (you can leave written feedback after clicking submit)

    Help us improve Dogster for pet parents!

    Your feedback really matters.

    What did you like about this post? Also how can we improve it?

    Join the conversation

    Leave a Reply

    You’re very welcome to leave a comment or question. Please know that all comments must meet our community guidelines, and your email address will NOT be published. Let’s have a positive and constructive conversation.

    Talk With A Vet Online

    Peace of mind,
    anywhere, anytime

    Affordable vet advice

    10 Common Puppy Medications & Their Side Effects (Vet Answer)

    In this article, we’ll look into medication commonly prescribed to puppies or dogs under 12 months of age. All medications have side effects,...

    Why Do Dogs Like Belly Rubs So Much? 6 Common Reasons

    It is no surprise that dogs enjoy a good belly rub now and then. It may even be something that they look forward...

    St. Bernard vs. Great Pyrenees: The Differences (With Pictures)

    St. Bernard and Great Pyrenees – these large, fluffy dogs may seem pretty similar at first glance. However, they’re quite different. They were...

    8 Best CBD Oils for Dogs in 2025 – Reviews & Top Picks

    CBD and hemp oils are exponentially gaining in popularity around the world, and it’s no surprise that these products are available for dogs...

    More related

    3 Types of Golden Retrievers: Info & Facts (With Pictures)

    The Golden Retriever is one of the most popular dog breeds in the world and is highly intelligent, social, affectionate, and a great...

    Can Dogs Ride the Bus? What to Know, Travel Tips & Etiquette

    When we travel with our dogs around town, it is our responsibility as dog owners to check the rules. Some public transport services...

    Do Cockapoos Smell Worse Than Other Dogs? Vet Reviewed Facts & What to Do

    Cockapoos are a well-known crossbreed that originated in America and won the hearts of dog lovers worldwide. The Cockapoo’s unwaveringly friendly temperament isn’t...

    Dog Kennels vs. Crates: Vet-Verified Differences (With Info & Pictures)

    Whether you’re bringing home a new puppy, you have an old dog, or anything in between, we all know that finding ways to...

    Keep reading

    What Is Meat Meal in Dog Food? Vet-Approved Facts & FAQ

    There are many misconceptions about meat meal out there. Since meat meal isn’t whole meat, many dog owners assume that it’s a derivative of meat, similar to by-products. However, this isn’t exactly true. Quality meat meal can actually be a...

    dog eating

    20 Best Dog Food Affiliate Programs in 2025 – Reviews & Top Picks

    Caring for a pet dog is one of the most fulfilling things you can do. They are great companions and help us learn a thing or two about love. In the U.S., the number of pets has increased overwhelmingly to...

    Golden Retriever dog eating

    10 Best Freeze-Dried Dog Treats in 2025 – Reviews & Top Picks

    Dog owners everywhere know how important it is to feed their dogs the most high-quality and well-balanced diet possible. While dog food takes up the majority of a canine’s diet, it’s important to remember that treats are also fed regularly,...

    dog owner giving her pet shih tzu a treat

    Inception Dog Food Review 2025: Recalls, Pros & Cons

    Review Summary Inception Pet foods is a brand that produces wet and dry food for cats and dogs with animal or fish protein as the first two ingredients in each recipe. Inception is owned by Pets Global, which is based...

    Dogster_Inception Dog Food Review

    Can Dogs Eat Gravy? Vet-Reviewed Facts & Alternatives

    Gravy can seem like a treat that many dogs can enjoy. Gravies are often meat-based, and many dogs lap them up enthusiastically. However, it’s generally not recommended for dogs to eat gravy because it can contain harmful ingredients, and it...

    Can Dogs Eat Gravy

    What Can Shih Tzus Eat? Vet-Approved Feeding Guidelines

    Anyone who’s lived with a Shih Tzu can attest to the fact that it’s really hard to resist feeding them when they’re giving you the sad, puppy dog eyes. These toy breed dogs have big personalities, and they’re exceptionally talented...

    Hungry Shih Tzu puppy holding an empty bowl

    11 Best Dog Foods for Havanese in 2025 – Reviews & Top Picks

    While Havanese are not the most popular small dogs in the United States, there are still quite a few of them out there. If you’re the proud owner of one of these tiny dogs, then feeding them the correct food...

    Havanese dog eating

    Can Dogs Eat Rutabagas? Vet-Reviewed Facts & FAQ

    As a pet parent, you want to ensure your dog is healthy and happy. It’s well known that dogs can eat a variety of vegetables like carrots, spinach, peas, and even fruits like apples and blueberries. And you’ll even find...

    Can Dogs Eat_Rutabagas