Searching for a Cockapoo? Consider adopting a dog first

Cockapoos have become more popular in recent years. They are now a firm favorite dog breed as they are affectionate, playful, and have an excellent temperament.

This also means Cockapoos are increasingly in need of rehoming as households come under pressure, circumstances change, and the family pet is too much of a burden.

There are many reasons this can happen, such as an owner passing away, loss of employment, loss of home, and even because of some new dog owners underestimate the time, expense and attention a unique puppy needs.

Internet listings regularly advertise dogs that are 11 to 20 weeks old, as this can be the time it takes when an individual or family to realize they are unprepared for the commitment puppies require.

If a Cockapoo puppy was bought from a responsible breeder, they should be the first call for advice if things aren’t going well. Reputable breeders think of puppies like their children and want to be informed if there is a problem and try and help.

Not every Cockapoo comes from a responsible breeder, though, and many Cockapoos that need rehoming aren’t puppies or are too young to be rehomed.

Some people try to give away or re-sell their dogs. Still, it’s much better to contact people that care about the breed who are experienced in these situations and are skilled at finding a placement that will result in finding a loving, forever home.

Fostering a Cockapoo

Offering a Cockapoo for adoption can be a difficult decision to make, and most people are understandably upset if they have to take that action. Rescue societies that offer this service are empathetic and will discuss the situation openly, free of blame or judgment.

Some situations may, in fact, only require respite support for a set period. This is when a dog owner’s situation means they are only temporarily unable to care for their dog. For example, an elderly owner recovering from a severe operation may need support and be too unwell to care for a pet. Whatever the circumstances, the rescue society can arrange a foster home for a defined period until the home environment returns to normal.

Many members of a breed club will register their interest in providing this kind of help and provide a temporary loving home.

For people that do foster dogs, the rescue society typically pays the cost of food and veterinary bills. Cockapoo lovers who can commit to this are a stepping stone to prevent a dog from ending up in a kennel or shelter until a permanent home becomes available.

Adopting a Cockapoo

Adopting a Cockapoo is a life-long commitment, and a rescue society will want to ensure that a prospective new owner can offer a permanent, caring, suitable home. They will most like to do a home visit to make sure you have a healthy, secure living environment and also make sure you have the finances to provide for daycare, an emergency, and all-round welfare needs of a dog.

It’s normal for a contract to be entered into that guarantees the dog’s welfare, and if issues arise, to notify the rescue.  People also pay an adoption fee, but this is not usually prohibitively high as the rescues want to encourage adoption.

Things to consider before adopting a Cockapoo

Cockapoos are often in the news, and people believe they are the perfect family pet. In some cases, lack of knowledge can be the reason the dog needs rehoming. Below are the primary considerations every potential owner should think about before searching for a Cockapoo.

Cockapoos often advertised as hypoallergenic.

That isn’t correct. They do shed less than some dog breeds, but they do still shed and produce dander than can cause an allergic reaction in humans.

People are not necessarily allergic to the puppy coat, but once the adult coat comes in, they develop a reaction. You really must know first if you are going to be allergic, and contact time in advance of adoption can be helpful for both the potential owner and the Cockapoo.

Find out if your Cockapoo has a “working” Cocker or a “show” Cocker parent.

A Cockapoo that comes from a working Cocker Spaniel is an outdoor dog. They love water, rolling in mud, and chasing other dogs around.

Not only will you need to do a lot cleaning and grooming when you get back to the house, but you also need to have something of an outdoor life yourself to provide the kind of exercise this Cockapoo needs.

How much time do you have?

If you don’t have at least a spare hour per day to devote to your dog for exercise, consider getting a different breed or a toy Cockapoo that is more of a lap dog. Remember, cockapoos can be very destructive if left to their own devices and under-exercised.

If you’re out most of the day, this is not a dog that will cope. They crave companionship, so please consider another breed.

Make time for training.

To get the most out of your Cockapoo, you should undertake at least some basic training. They are brilliant, so it’s possible to teach the dog the basic commands quite quickly.

As with all dog training, you will still need to have patience.

Want to adopt a Cockapoo?

If you are interested in fostering or adopting a Cockapoo in the United Kingdom, contact The Doodle Trust or The Cockapoo Club of Great Britain and register your interest. If you’re in the United States, contact The American Cockapoo Society to discuss options.

Simon James is the editor at Cockapoo For Life.

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