Teacup Cockapoo: Everything You Need to Know

The Cockapoo is a small, adorable dog and a mix between a Toy Poodle and a Cocker Spaniel. The Teacup Cockapoo is known for its small size, which makes it the perfect pet for those who live in apartments or have limited space.

These adorable miniature pups require special care due to their fragile sizes. These include using a harness instead of a collar to protect their delicate necks. Additionally, potty training these dogs may be a hassle. So,  quality puppy pads could come in handy before they get the hang of housetraining. 

If you have been contemplating including a teacup Cockapoo puppy in your family, but you had some questions, you have come to the right place. With the help of Alan Kenworthy in his book on Cockapoos, we will explore and help you understand all you need to know about this amazing breed.

Teacup is a name used to describe small breeds. This means your mini Cockapoo puppy will remain small for the rest of their lives. However, we have different sizes of Cockapoos. This includes Teacups, Toys, Minis, and Standard Cockapoos.

Teacup dogs are typically the smallest, weighing between 4 and 6 pounds and standing about 7 to 10 inches tall at the shoulder. 

These dogs look abnormally small, just like others, such as Teacup Maltipoos and Teacup Shih Tzus. Cockapoos are known for their charms and a big heart that leaves most people craving more of them.

It is important to note that Teacup or Pocket Cockapoos are not recognized by major kennel clubs, such as the American Kennel Club (AKC). This variation of the standard Cockapoo breed is not bred to meet any specific breed standards.

Origins & History 

The Cockapoo is a relatively new designer dog breed that has become increasingly popular in recent years. They are a crossbreed between a Toy Poodle and a Cocker Spaniel, resulting in a small, cute, and affectionate dog that is perfect for families and individuals alike. 

To better understand the origin of the Teacup Cockapoo, we need to first look at the parents’ origin.

The Poodle, being one of the Cockapoos’ parents, is believed to have originated from Germany but was later taken to France, where they were appreciated. It wasn’t long before the French noble families admired them for their versatility.

Originally bred in England in the 19th century, the Cocker Spaniel boasts a rich history as a hunting dog. They were bred to hunt woodcock, which is where they derived their name. 

The idea behind cross-breeding the American Cocker Spaniel and the Poodle was to come up with a breed that was hypoallergenic, energetic, and intelligent. They have always been bred as companions, and their small size makes them ideal for city living.

Note: There is a lot of controversy surrounding the breeding of both “teacup” breeds and “doodles” (poodle mixes) and “designer breeds”. This is because the high demand has led to a boom of unethical breeders breeding dogs, popular designer dogs, that often have a slew of health and temperament issues. Be very careful of breeders breeding these dogs and make sure to research thoroughly. Also, always consider adopting rather than potentially supporting an unethical breeder.

What Does a Micro Cockapoo Look Like?

Teacup Cockapoos are small dogs weighing between 4 to 6 pounds and standing at 7 to 10 inches tall. They have a round head with floppy ears, a long tail, and a soft, curly coat that can be in a variety of colors, including black, white, brown, and red. They are often compared to teddy bears because of their adorable appearance.

Coat & Colors

Tea Cockapoos have three possible coat types depending on the dominant gene. These are tight, curly coats, a loose wavy, and a straighter coat. 

The coat color can include black, white, brown, and red. Some have a solid color coat, while others have a mix of two or more colors. They are hypoallergenic, which means they do not shed much and are great for people who have allergies.

How Big Does a Teacup Cockapoo Get?

Micro  Cockapoos are bred to be small, so they will not grow much larger than their parents’ size. They are perfect for people who live in apartments or small houses because they do not require a lot of space to run around.

Cockapoo Sizes: Teacup vs. Toy vs. Mini vs. Standard

Cockapoos are a popular breed of dog that comes in various sizes. The four main sizes of Cockapoos are Teacup, Toy, Mini, and Standard. Each size has its own unique characteristics and is suitable for different types of owners.

Size Comparison

The following table shows a comparison of the sizes of Teacup, Toy, Mini, and Standard Cockapoos:

Teacup Cockapoos are the smallest of the breed, weighing up to 6 pounds and standing up to 10 inches tall. They are very small and fragile, making them suitable for owners who live in apartments or have limited space. However, tiny  Cockapoos are not recommended for families with young children or other pets, as they are delicate and can easily be injured.

They can also suffer more health issues due to their extremely small size and questionable breeding practices.

To get a teacup, breeders often have to repeatedly breed back their dogs to teacup poodles, or only breed the smallest Cockapoos together.

Toy Cockapoos

Toy Cockapoos are slightly larger than teacups, weighing between 7 and 12 pounds and standing between 11 and 14 inches tall. They are still small enough to be suitable for apartment living but are generally more robust and can handle being around young children and other pets.

Toy Cockapoos typically come from breeding with toy Poodles.

Mini Cockapoos

Mini Cockapoos are larger than Toy Cockapoos, weighing between 13 and 18 pounds and standing between 15 and 18 inches tall. They are a good choice for families with children and other pets, as they can handle rough play.

Mini Cockapoos typically come from a miniature poodle parent.

Standard Cockapoos

Standard Cockapoos are the largest of the breed, weighing between 19 and 30 pounds and standing between 19 and 21 inches tall. They are best suited for families with larger living spaces and a yard, as they need plenty of exercise and room to run around. Standard Cockapoos are also a good choice for families with children and other pets.

These are typically the result of a Cocker Spaniel mixed with a Moyen Or Standard Poodle.

General Care And Needs

Teacup Cockapoos are known for their affectionate and playful nature. If you are planning to get a smaller Cockapoo, it is essential to take good care of them to ensure their health and happiness. In this section, we will discuss how to care for a Teacup Cocker Spaniel Poodle Mix, including their diet and exercise needs.

Diet

Teacups are small dogs, and they require a diet that is rich in nutrients to maintain their health. It is recommended to feed them high-quality dog food specifically designed for small breeds. The food should contain a balanced amount of protein, carbohydrates, and fats. They usually need to eat small meals often as they are prone to hypoglycemia.

Smaller Poodle mixes are prone to dental issues, so it is essential to provide them with dog dental rinse toys to keep their teeth clean. It is also recommended to avoid feeding them table scraps or human food, as it can cause digestive issues and obesity.

Exercise

Cockapoos are energetic dogs and require regular exercise for 20 to 30 minutes daily to maintain their physical and mental health. But the teacup size is very small and will not need more than a 10 or 15 minute walk twice a day and little gentle playtime.

They enjoy playing and going for walks, but it is essential to ensure that they do not overexert themselves. Provide them with toys that stimulate their minds and keep them active. Due to their small size, they are prone to injuries, so it is crucial to supervise them during exercise.

How to Groom a Teacup Cockapoo

Personality and Temperament

Teacup Cockapoos are known for their friendly and affectionate temperament. They are highly intelligent and trainable, making them an excellent choice for families with children or novice dog owners. These dogs are also highly adaptable and can thrive in a variety of living situations, including apartments and small homes.

One thing to keep in mind is that these little dogs thrive on companionship and are prone to separation anxiety, and should not be left alone for long periods. They are very loving but also very sensitive dogs, so it’s important to provide them with plenty of attention and affection.

They love to play and interact with their owners, and they have a great sense of humor. These dogs are also very loyal and protective of their families, making them excellent watchdogs.

With proper training and socialization, these dogs can be a joy to be around and bring a lot of love and happiness into their owners’ lives.

Common Health Issues

Teacup Cockapoos are prone to various health issues, some of which are inherited from their parent breeds. Many argue that they are healthier because they are crossbred, but this is often a myth. Particularly as teacup dogs are often the result of inbreeding dogs to get smaller and smaller puppies, it is vital to do your research and be aware of the many health issues that could affect a micro, teacup, pocket or even mini Cockapoo.

Here are some common health problems that these dogs may experience:

• Heart problems: Heart problem like mitral valve disease are quite common in older Cockapoos as both Toy Poodles and Cocker Spaniels are prone to it. Cocker spaniels are also prone to taurine deficiencies that are linked to dilated cardiomyopathy, another heart disease to watch out for in the Cockapoo.
• Dental disease: Smaller breeds may develop dental disease with a lot of teeth in the mouth if their teeth are not properly cared for.
• Epilepsy: Some Cockapoos may develop epilepsy, which can cause seizures.
• Diabetes: Poodle mixes may be at a higher risk for diabetes because of a genetic predisposition.
• Eye problems: Cockapoos may develop eye problems such as cataracts or glaucoma.
• Allergies: Research shows that the most likely food allergies in dogs are beef, dairy products, chicken, and wheat. Cockapoo dogs may be prone to allergies, which can cause skin irritation, rashes, and gastrointestinal distress.
• Ear infections: These dogs may develop ear infections if their ears are not properly cleaned and cared for. 
• Rage syndrome: Some Cockapoos may develop rage syndrome, which can cause sudden aggressive behavior. This is genetic in some Cocker Spaniels.
• Collapsing tracheas: Teacup dogs may be at a higher risk for collapsing tracheas due to their small size.
• Hypoglycemia: Teacup dogs may experience hypoglycemia, which is a condition that causes low blood sugar levels.
• Hydrocephalus: Some tiny dogs may develop hydrocephalus, which is a condition that causes excessive fluid in the brain.
• Liver shunts: Teacups may be prone to liver shunts, which can cause liver failure.
• Luxating Patella: Small dogs may develop luxating patella, which is a condition that causes the kneecap to dislocate.

How Long Does They live?

On average, a Teacup Cockapoo can live between 12 to 16 years. However, with proper care and attention, some have been known to live up to 20 years.

Training Your Teacup Cockapoo

Teacup Cockapoos are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train. However, it is important to start training early to prevent bad habits from forming. This section will cover two important aspects of training: puppy training and socialization.

Puppy Training

Puppy training is crucial for micro puppies  to learn basic obedience commands and good behavior. Here are some tips for effective puppy training:

• Start training as early as possible. Puppies as young as eight weeks old can start learning basic commands.
• Use positive reinforcement techniques such as treats, praise, and playtime to reward good behavior.
• Be consistent with commands and expectations. Use the same words and gestures for each command and reward good behavior every time.
• Keep training sessions short and frequent. Puppies have short attention spans, so it’s better to have multiple short training sessions throughout the day rather than one long session.
• Be patient, and don’t punish bad behavior. Instead, redirect their attention to something positive and reward good behavior.

Socialization

Socialization is important for all dogs to learn how to build confidence and interact with other dogs and people. Here are some tips for effective socialization:

• Start socializing your puppy as early as possible. Expose them to different people, dogs, and environments.
• Use positive reinforcement techniques to reward good behavior during socialization.
• Introduce your puppy to new experiences gradually and in a controlled environment.
• Monitor your puppy’s body language and behavior during socialization. If they seem uncomfortable or scared, take a step back and try again later.

Choosing a Breeder

When looking for a Teacup Cockapoo breeder, it is important to do your research to ensure you are getting a healthy and well-bred puppy. It’s important to note that breeding Poodle designer breeds and breeding dogs to unnaturally small “teacup” sizes is largely seen as unethical breeding. 

So it may be very difficult to get one of these dogs from an ethical breeder as opposed to a puppy mill. Remember that many unethical breeders trying to sell these extra cute little dogs will try to present themselves as ethical breeders.

Reputable Breeders

A reputable breeder will prioritize the health and well-being of their puppies. They will perform health checks on the parents and puppies and provide documentation of the results. They will also be transparent about any potential health issues that may arise in the breed.

Red Flags

There are some red flags to watch out for when choosing a breeder. These include:

• Breeders who have multiple litters available at once or who breed several different types of dogs: This may indicate that they are more interested in profit than the well-being of their puppies.
  
• Breeders who do not allow you to see the puppies or the parents: This may be a sign that they are hiding something, such as poor living conditions or health issues.
  
• Breeders who do not provide health documentation or who are not transparent about potential health issues in the breed: This may indicate that they are not prioritizing the health of their puppies.
  
• Breeders who do not ask you questions or who are not interested in learning more about you and your lifestyle: A good breeder will want to ensure that their puppies are going to a good home and will ask you questions about your living situation and ability to care for a smaller Cockapoo.

Adoption Options

If you are interested in adopting a Teacup Cockapoo, there are a few things that you should keep in mind.

Adoption Process

The adoption process for teacup Cockapoos can vary depending on where you are adopting from. Some breeders may require an application process, while others may only require a deposit to hold a puppy. It is important to do your research and find a reputable breeder who is transparent about their breeding practices and the health of their puppies.

Rescue Groups

If you are interested in adopting a smaller Cocker Spaniel Poodle mix but do not want to go through a breeder, there are also rescue groups that specialize in this breed. These rescue groups work to find homes for doodle dogs that have been abandoned or surrendered by their previous owners.

When adopting from a rescue group, it is important to be patient and understanding. Many of these dogs may have experienced trauma or neglect in their previous homes, so it may take time for them to adjust to their new surroundings. It is also important to work with the rescue group to ensure that you are a good fit for the dog and that the dog is a good fit for your lifestyle.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Final Thoughts

Teacup Cockapoo is a delightful and charming dog that makes a great pet for any family. They are friendly, loyal, and intelligent, making them easy to train and a joy to be around. One thing to keep in mind is that Cockapoos are a relatively new breed, and as such, there is still much to learn about them. Whether you’re looking for a lap dog or a companion for your children, the Teacup Cockapoo is an excellent choice, provided you do your research and are prepared for their special needs as tiny dogs.

Meet Your Experts

Tamsin De La Harpe

Author

Tamsin de la Harpe has nearly two decades of experience with dogs in rescue, training, and behavior modification with fearful and aggressive dogs. She has worked closely with veterinarians and various kennels, building up extensive medical knowledge and an understanding of canine health and physiology. She also spent two years in the animal sciences as a canine nutrition researcher, focusing on longevity and holistic healthcare for our four-legged companions. Tamsin currently keeps a busy homestead with an assortment of rescue dogs and three Bullmastiffs.

Tamsin de la Harpe has nearly two decades of experience with dogs in rescue, training, and behavior modification with fearful and aggressive dogs. She has worked closely with veterinarians and various kennels, building up extensive medical knowledge and an understanding of canine health and physiology. She also spent two years in the animal sciences as a canine nutrition researcher, focusing on longevity and holistic healthcare for our four-legged companions. Tamsin currently keeps a busy homestead with an assortment of rescue dogs and three Bullmastiffs.