Cockapoo Health Issues: 9 Vet-Reviewed Concerns

The Cockapoo is considered a designer dog, crossbred to be a cute and lovable pet. This dog is part Cocker Spaniel and part Poodle, hence how they got their name. Cockapoos are smart, sociable, family oriented, and eager to please, which makes them excellent as family pets.

However, Cockapoos are prone to a few health conditions that all prospective and new owners should be aware of. Only by understanding these conditions can you be proactive when it comes to healthcare and effectively spot signs of problems before they become too serious. Here are 9 common health conditions you should be aware of. Please note this list is not exhaustive and is not in order of importance.

The 9 Most Common Cockapoo Health Problems

1. Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a condition in which the optic nerves in the eyes become damaged. The optic nerve of the eye is responsible for sending information to the brain so the brain can decipher what is being seen. Glaucoma typically develops when too much pressure is being put on the optic nerve in one or both eyes. If left untreated, the condition can lead to blindness. Therefore, treatment should be sought as soon as signs of glaucoma arise.

2. Progressive Retinal Atrophy

This is a condition that affects the eye’s photoreceptor cells, which work to turn light into electrical signals that are sent to the brain for processing. If progressive retinal atrophy has been diagnosed, it means multiple degenerative diseases have developed that are poorly affecting the photoreceptor cells, inhibiting the ability of the brain to decipher the messages being received from the eyes. Eventually, this disease can lead to blindness.

3. Hip Dysplasia

It is common for both Poodles and Cocker Spaniels to develop hip dysplasia, which is why the Cockapoo is also prone to the condition. Hip dysplasia happens when the hip ball cannot sit in the socket correctly. This causes the ball joint to grind and seize as time goes on. The joint deteriorates and the hip no longer functions correctly or becomes painful. Antiinflammatories, rest, physical therapy, hydrotherapy, in some cases surgery and other types of treatments can be helpful.

4. Von Willebrand’s Disease

Von Willebrand’s disease can be inherited from either the Cocker Spaniel or the Poodle. Having the disease means an important protein (responsible for stopping bleeding when a blood vessel injury occurs) is missing or deficient. If a Cockapoo comes from a line that has Von Willebrand’s disease, the dog should be screened for the disease early. While no cure is available, treatments are available that can help control the disease.

5. Luxating Patella

Luxating patella is the technical name for knee dislocation. It can be caused by a variety of things, including inappropriate diet, a lack of exercise, excessive joint stress, and genetic structure. Depending on the severity of the condition, a dog may be relieved through pain killers and physio, or they might have to have surgery in an attempt to correct the problem.

6. Ear Infections

Cockapoos are susceptible to ear infections due to having floppy ears, hairy ear canals, and often because of their love of water. When playing in water or swimming in lakes, ponds, and oceans, water can get trapped inside their ears, making it easier for bacteria to grow over time. Since Cockapoos have floppy ears, bacteria can get trapped in the ear canal even if they haven’t been playing or swimming in water. Regular cleaning of their ears with clean cloths or cotton swabs can help keep ear infections at bay.

7. Skin Allergies

Cockapoos can be prone to developing skin allergies as they grow up. The allergies typically lead to signs such as itching and irritation. Allergen sources can come into contact with a Cockapoo outdoors and indoors. These dogs can also be allergic to ingredients in their commercial food, flea saliva, pollen, weeds, trees, house dust mites and more. Working with a veterinarian can help you manage your dog’s skin allergies so signs are minimal as time goes on.

8. Dental Disease

Like most dogs, Cockapoos can develop dental disease if their teeth and gums are not properly taken care of. A buildup of tartar and plaque is what encourages the development of dental problems. Signs of dental disease include bad breath, pawing at the mouth, drooling, and red or swollen gums. Regular teeth brushing and dental chew treats can help ensure that your Cockapoo never develops dental disease.

9. Thyroid Dysfunction

Unfortunately, Poodles are prone to hypothyroidism, which means their Cockapoo offspring may be too. Thyroid dysfunction can lead to signs such as dry skin, lethargy, hair loss, cold sensitivity, weight gain, reduced activity levels and other behavioral abnormalities. Some of these signs can be caused by other health issues so it’s important to get your dog examined by a veterinarian. There are medications to replace thyroid hormones that can be prescribed and are usually given lifelong.

How to Deal With Possible Health Conditions Before and After They Arise

The best thing that you can do to handle possible health problems with your Cockapoo is to schedule regular veterinarian checkups and ensure that all vaccinations are kept up to date. It is also important to make sure your dog eats a healthy diet throughout their life.

Daily exercise in the form of a long walk and/or gameplay is essential to good health and can help keep potential health problems at bay.

If you do notice signs of developing health problems, it’s important to contact your veterinarian as soon as possible. Never feel like you’re overreacting when you have concerns. Small concerns can quickly turn into big problems.

Final Thoughts

Cockapoos are great family pets. They are loving, loyal, smart, and sociable, and they love children. They get along well with other family pets if socialized from a young age, and they take well to obedience training. It's important to keep tabs on your Cockapoo’s health as they age to ensure a long and happy life for them. Hopefully, this guide helps you be prepared and spot potential health problems early on.

Featured Image Credit: Bartlomiej Rybacki, Shutterstock