Are Cockapoo puppies easy to train?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
A Cockapoo is a mixture between a Poodle and a Cocker Spaniel which are known for their intelligence. They are whip-smart and pick new lessons quickly. With positive reinforcement and reward-based training, your Cockapoo can be housetrained, leash trained, potty trained and have A* recall, in no time at all!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Cockapoo Behavior problems<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
It will come as no surprise that the Cockapoo is notorious for getting bored easily. If they are left home alone for a long time, they started to become bored which leads to destructive behavior. This behavior can also be sparked if they don\u2019t receive enough regular exercise or stimulation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Prerequisites for training my Cockapoo puppy?<\/h2>\n\n\n\nWhat age can I start to train my Cockapoo puppy?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nYou can start to train your Cockapoo puppy as soon as you get them home. Cockapoos are super smart and are always learning, so start by simply rewarding them with treats, play and praise when they do the right thing. Check out the Pre-Puppy section of the Zigzag app <\/a>for more information on things to do before bringing home your Cockapoo puppy. You can also contact our Zigzag puppy experts<\/a> with any queries you may have before you bring your puppy home.<\/p>\n\n\n\nWhat do I need to train my Cockapoo?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nThe good news is that there isn\u2019t a long list of training equipment, but it\u2019s an idea to be prepared so that training can begin right away.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- Treat Pouch <\/a>You\u2019ll need to have lots of treats on hand, so you can reward your Cockapoo for a \u2018job well done\u2019 but you can also train with some of their ordinary dry food. You can read more about how we use rewards and treats to train in our article on puppy rewards and treats.<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- A Soft Collar<\/a>\u2013 Your Cockapoo puppy will benefit from a comfortable collar that does not tug on their gorgeous coat. <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- A harness:<\/a> One that does not pull or tighten while your puppy walks. Cockapoos are delicate, so be kind to them. Please, nothing too hefty!<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- A training leash \u2013 Around 2m is a good length. This will offer your Cockapoo puppy adequate space to smell and will be handy later on when teaching the settle exercise. Not sure which one to try? Here\u2019s our picks.<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- A comfortable mat or a piece of on-slip vet bed<\/a>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Treats: The smellier and stinky, the better. More info on treats can be found here.<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Two toys that are identica<\/a>l: Excellent for swaps \u2013 your Cockapoo puppy will be quite lively and will like the retrieving games in the Zigzag app.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- A soft grooming <\/a>brush and a flexible slicker<\/a>\u2013 I\u2019m not going to lie, that coat is going to require some work, so start early, softly, and with PLENTY of patience and rewards.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- A crate <\/a>and a playpen<\/a> are optional, but we think they\u2019re really useful.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Good to know about training Cockapoo puppies<\/h2>\n\n\n\nWhat are Cockapoo bred for?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Cockapoos are fancy. They are one of the first \u2018Designer Dog\u2019 breeds going as far back as the 1950s<\/a>! The rumors are true though \u2013 they\u2019re not a real<\/em> breed per se. But they\u2019re a wonderful cross of a Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle. They\u2019ve been designed (quite literally) to be hypoallergenic (although not all are), so they\u2019re quite popular as friendly family dogs. They\u2019re also highly intelligent and have teddy bear looks. Who wouldn\u2019t want them for a cuddle?<\/p>\n\n\n\nSo, here\u2019s how the mix works:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Cocker Spaniels are bred to flush out and \u2018pick up\u2019 birds. This means they\u2019re quite quick on their feet, and have good scenting and searching skills.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Poodles were bred as water retrievers to bring ducks back so they love to swim, and are incredibly intelligent \u2013 they are the original circus dogs! Although we don\u2019t love animals being used in circus performances. Anyway, that\u2019s for another time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
As you can see, when these traits get brought together as a Cockapoo they turn out to be brilliant in all kinds of skills \u2013 whether it\u2019s agility, flyball, trick training or nose work (or all at the same time!) you\u2019ll always be able to show them off in some way or another.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Here\u2019s other special qualities and talents you can be proud about as a Cockapoo owner:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- They\u2019re able to work in all weathers, all day long. <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- They tend to be enthusiastic in training, and build strong bonds with their owner. That\u2019s good news, innit?<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Good self-control \u2013 when taught how to harness it!<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- A good ability to be flexible, and work in new environments with people and dogs that they don\u2019t know.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- They\u2019re keen and eager to get on their feet as soon as they\u2019re asked.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Sensitive and affectionate. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Here\u2019s something a good dog trainer friend of mine, Paul Lasky<\/a> recently said about Cockapoos: <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\u201cYou\u2019ve imagined that you have brought home a cute little teddy bear that is going to play with your children. What you\u2019ve actually signed up to is having someone in your house who is basically the combination of the following. Chess and CrossFit. They play chess to Grandmaster level, CrossFit to elite fitness level and they see things as quick as Neo from The Matrix.\u2019<\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\nHope it made you smile.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
How to tire out a Cockapoo<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Cockapoos are a very hyperactive and enthusiastic breed, that need a lot of mental stimulation and exercise. To tire out your Cockapoo you need to make sure you are creating enough exercise for your pup. Make sure you are incorporating fun activities where possible, and never missing out on walks!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
What does this have to do with how I train my Cockapoo?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
It\u2019s a fair question actually. But there is a logic as to why knowing the context might help you train your Cockapoo better:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- Saying that Cockapoos are clever and motivated is an understatement. You\u2019ll quickly find that Cockapoo puppies will be more than happy to work with you to do anything. <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- They need a good amount of exercise \u2013 mental as well as physical \u2013 to keep them busy and prevent them from going about without guidance. <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- They generally prefer to live in the countryside where there\u2019s room to run, and space to imagine catching birds. But given the right training and mental stimulation, they\u2019ll grow to enjoy city life too.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- They love water and getting filthy in mud! It\u2019s a great idea to join in the fun as well. Just look out for your carpets\u2026.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- They have a strong sense of smell, so retrieving or scent work games tend to be the biggest treat for most. <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- They require a lot of grooming \u2013 their coats range from being very curly to wavy, to straight. This also means you\u2019ll need to take care that they aren\u2019t handled roughly or over-handled \u2013 they\u2019re busy dogs, not babies!<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Cockapoos love retrieving, they\u2019ll love to carry things in their mouths. That being said, make sure you also teach them the wonders of giving things up. It can lead to great things! Like treats <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\nPRO TIP: <\/strong>If your Cockapoo puppy switches off or starts acting silly (often a sign of stress) it means it\u2019s time for a break. Shift to some play, and revisit training later \u2013 we want training to be associated with fun, and not something they begin to dread. <\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n![\"\"\/](\"https:\/\/lh5.googleusercontent.com\/6y528kkbzeQwoP1HNdCiOzIeWURzk5RAkMxRMZnpAtajDk5KF8Pm70m2N98IilHWBKCvZlHC3rM2B2or5Gr0vHl2ScW23h5xIUXqAxLNGr7UKARbQPLIIcet_pWZyyHU9It4TFa2\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nOverview of the training program and topics we\u2019ll cover<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nIn this 8-week guide to training a cockapoo puppy, we\u2019re going to be covering many subjects such as <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- Sitting<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Lying down<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Learning their name<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Coming when you call them<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Walking nicely on a leash<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Playing fetch<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Sleeping in their crate<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Coping with being left alone<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Going to the bathroom in the right place <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Didn\u2019t we tell you Cockapoos are clever? That also suggests they are prone to boredom when doing the same thing again and again. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
By employing the \u2018Push Drop Stick\u2019 strategy to progressively raise the difficulty of exercises, we can achieve greater and faster outcomes while avoiding boredom and frustration. Yay<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Essentially, you practice the same thing with your puppy 5 times. If they get all 5 correct, you go on to the next level of difficulty (push). If they get 3 or 4 correct, you should stay where you are (stick). If they get just 1 or 2 correct, you should move back to a somewhat easier level of difficulty (drop).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Can cockapoos be left alone?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Even though they love affection, Cockapoos, once settled into their new life at home, are usually fine to be left alone. Once they are mature, potty trained, and able to control their bladders, most adult cockapoos can be left at home alone for up to six to eight hours. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
How far can a Cockapoo walk?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The typical rule of thumb is that an adult should walk for one hour per 30 pounds, therefore if your Cockapoo weighs around 15 pounds, a 30-minute walk should be more than enough. The length of the walk can be adjusted to your dog\u2019s preferences for longer or shorter walks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
How much exercise do cockapoos need?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Adult cockapoos would benefit from around two walks a day, as well as staying healthy and stimulated throughout the day. It is important to note that puppies should not be overexercised, therefore sticking to little and often walks, as this can have a detrimental effect on their bone and joint health.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Week 1 \u2013 Training your Cockapoo puppy<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
It\u2019s your first week of training
your Cockapoo puppy. How does it feel to be a new puppy parent? You must be
chuffed to bits. The first week is a time for bonding and getting to know your
new pup, so try not to get too stressed out. Your puppy will likely need time
to learn about who you are, and that you love them just as much as they love
you. The best way to do this is through playing and training. Go through some
basic exercises with your pooch so they can learn more about their surroundings
while also having fun.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You can start to train your Cockapoo puppy as soon as you get them home. Cockapoos are super smart and are always learning, so start by simply rewarding them with treats, play and praise when they do the right thing. Check out the Pre-Puppy section of the Zigzag app <\/a>for more information on things to do before bringing home your Cockapoo puppy. You can also contact our Zigzag puppy experts<\/a> with any queries you may have before you bring your puppy home.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The good news is that there isn\u2019t a long list of training equipment, but it\u2019s an idea to be prepared so that training can begin right away.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Cockapoos are fancy. They are one of the first \u2018Designer Dog\u2019 breeds going as far back as the 1950s<\/a>! The rumors are true though \u2013 they\u2019re not a real<\/em> breed per se. But they\u2019re a wonderful cross of a Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle. They\u2019ve been designed (quite literally) to be hypoallergenic (although not all are), so they\u2019re quite popular as friendly family dogs. They\u2019re also highly intelligent and have teddy bear looks. Who wouldn\u2019t want them for a cuddle?<\/p>\n\n\n\n So, here\u2019s how the mix works:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Cocker Spaniels are bred to flush out and \u2018pick up\u2019 birds. This means they\u2019re quite quick on their feet, and have good scenting and searching skills.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Poodles were bred as water retrievers to bring ducks back so they love to swim, and are incredibly intelligent \u2013 they are the original circus dogs! Although we don\u2019t love animals being used in circus performances. Anyway, that\u2019s for another time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n As you can see, when these traits get brought together as a Cockapoo they turn out to be brilliant in all kinds of skills \u2013 whether it\u2019s agility, flyball, trick training or nose work (or all at the same time!) you\u2019ll always be able to show them off in some way or another.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Here\u2019s other special qualities and talents you can be proud about as a Cockapoo owner:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Here\u2019s something a good dog trainer friend of mine, Paul Lasky<\/a> recently said about Cockapoos: <\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cYou\u2019ve imagined that you have brought home a cute little teddy bear that is going to play with your children. What you\u2019ve actually signed up to is having someone in your house who is basically the combination of the following. Chess and CrossFit. They play chess to Grandmaster level, CrossFit to elite fitness level and they see things as quick as Neo from The Matrix.\u2019<\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n Hope it made you smile.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Cockapoos are a very hyperactive and enthusiastic breed, that need a lot of mental stimulation and exercise. To tire out your Cockapoo you need to make sure you are creating enough exercise for your pup. Make sure you are incorporating fun activities where possible, and never missing out on walks!<\/p>\n\n\n\n It\u2019s a fair question actually. But there is a logic as to why knowing the context might help you train your Cockapoo better:<\/p>\n\n\n\n PRO TIP: <\/strong>If your Cockapoo puppy switches off or starts acting silly (often a sign of stress) it means it\u2019s time for a break. Shift to some play, and revisit training later \u2013 we want training to be associated with fun, and not something they begin to dread. <\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n In this 8-week guide to training a cockapoo puppy, we\u2019re going to be covering many subjects such as <\/p>\n\n\n\n Didn\u2019t we tell you Cockapoos are clever? That also suggests they are prone to boredom when doing the same thing again and again. <\/p>\n\n\n\n By employing the \u2018Push Drop Stick\u2019 strategy to progressively raise the difficulty of exercises, we can achieve greater and faster outcomes while avoiding boredom and frustration. Yay<\/p>\n\n\n\n Essentially, you practice the same thing with your puppy 5 times. If they get all 5 correct, you go on to the next level of difficulty (push). If they get 3 or 4 correct, you should stay where you are (stick). If they get just 1 or 2 correct, you should move back to a somewhat easier level of difficulty (drop).<\/p>\n\n\n\n Even though they love affection, Cockapoos, once settled into their new life at home, are usually fine to be left alone. Once they are mature, potty trained, and able to control their bladders, most adult cockapoos can be left at home alone for up to six to eight hours. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The typical rule of thumb is that an adult should walk for one hour per 30 pounds, therefore if your Cockapoo weighs around 15 pounds, a 30-minute walk should be more than enough. The length of the walk can be adjusted to your dog\u2019s preferences for longer or shorter walks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Adult cockapoos would benefit from around two walks a day, as well as staying healthy and stimulated throughout the day. It is important to note that puppies should not be overexercised, therefore sticking to little and often walks, as this can have a detrimental effect on their bone and joint health.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It\u2019s your first week of trainingWhat do I need to train my Cockapoo?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n
Good to know about training Cockapoo puppies<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
What are Cockapoo bred for?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n
\n
How to tire out a Cockapoo<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
What does this have to do with how I train my Cockapoo?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n
\n
Overview of the training program and topics we\u2019ll cover<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
Can cockapoos be left alone?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
How far can a Cockapoo walk?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
How much exercise do cockapoos need?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Week 1 \u2013 Training your Cockapoo puppy<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
your Cockapoo puppy. How does it feel to be a new puppy parent? You must be
chuffed to bits. The first week is a time for bonding and getting to know your
new pup, so try not to get too stressed out. Your puppy will likely need time
to learn about who you are, and that you love them just as much as they love
you. The best way to do this is through playing and training. Go through some
basic exercises with your pooch so they can learn more about their surroundings
while also having fun.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"\/](\"https:\/\/lh3.googleusercontent.com\/vdlW3nqL8STqrcgJAksSgitPGn0R8pPiG7GpyfIkp1pBCA0hAvEcB7TdwQbks3Y2dq4y0PMP7A50jgy_MqVMeKu8UheHwHQ42At25j8KUrj2HBkfyzA6NDRs0LgU9LYLrHuXYrdE\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n![\"\"\/](\"https:\/\/lh6.googleusercontent.com\/Ejp3SQw_XQUKxAfGols0C44LZhAC4KE8cZU2JDYWsNWa_BV32OMgEKo7_lAn6Vpe4VXrt5JnN_acvYZHYBol6a3j_3cVPx97paicnjSx2PpCsx8kVWwdI727Y-I1xSaUy_KNgUPk\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n![\"\"\/](\"https:\/\/lh5.googleusercontent.com\/H25Dh4ZNs7TdOsvjK0BXjgeSdSlhFSH2nKfWZsS-v1rxIkW8gNrUbTTz7mb1OpXcg86pICdtucTgzTTa1G_FB57-Lw0hkJxEzSqbl2Aw7_4f3wXfBm2MqS8Tp7sx832Qx9iHUyCu\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n![\"\"\/](\"https:\/\/lh6.googleusercontent.com\/41cmizP86VNvF3_suGRB6D-9Sr0MiB4iIO6F8fVN9Tp36wHF3vbzW2B_q91vFErJiJ4pnvZJ96Ic3spwK3bv6lFPVxAVQFk5wbMeluEFPWVMPqs4twmPNs3ftU4urCnJrd17Fph3\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n![\"\"\/](\"https:\/\/lh6.googleusercontent.com\/oP2Dl1cDPrIsqUdvXiwpqhAtsdRo4dg0italeO_2_R0N1tpClWhAimyOJcJDXhtrmLwlHE-QPE44c0d7T72wJykgm5q-bmJz8eX-9C0OjzkqWKvTzowdN7DznizxDQtFCFClERmw\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n![\"\"\/](\"https:\/\/lh3.googleusercontent.com\/zOPSAnDw5PUOStzlZehrnkrTmPnm2kgV2a34llHb6_mNZIgYn0D646JKKDp4QJpKsSczGOpXaspVoGzuEXpOuat1gylfEymqmA01nmgjrksBGqGbUI_qTG6VFw2s3RrWTq942C_H\")
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