# Do Cockapoos Smell Worse Than Other Dogs? A Veterinarian Weighs In - Canonical: https://33rdsquare.com/do-cockapoos-smell-worse-than-other-dogs-a-veterinarian-weighs-in/ - Published: 2024-02-09 - Author: Savanna Read - Categories: [Dog](https://33rdsquare.com/category/dog/) --- As a veterinarian and lifelong dog lover, I know that one of the biggest concerns potential pup parents have is how much their new furry friend will smell. After all, nobody wants a house that reeks of wet dog! When it comes to odor, not all breeds are created equal – and the beloved cockapoo is often touted as a low-smell, low-shed companion. But is this designer dog really less stinky than other pooches? Let‘s take a closer sniff at the cockapoo‘s coat, grooming needs, and risk for odor-causing health issues to find out. ## The Cockapoo: A Breed Apart First, a bit of background on this popular hybrid. The cockapoo is a cross between a cocker spaniel and a poodle (usually a miniature or toy poodle). According to the American Cockapoo Club, the first intentional cockapoo breeding took place in the United States in the 1960s, with the goal of creating an intelligent, affectionate, low-shedding companion dog. Since then, the cockapoo‘s popularity has skyrocketed. The UK Kennel Club reports that cockapoos have been the most registered dog breed in the United Kingdom since 2018, with a whopping 33,759 registrations in 2020 alone. In the US, the American Cockapoo Club estimates that there are now over 100,000 cockapoos nationwide. So what makes the cockapoo so appealing? In addition to their teddy bear good looks, cockapoos are known for their outgoing, people-pleasing personalities. They typically do well with children, other dogs, and even cats. But perhaps most importantly for allergy sufferers and neat freaks, cockapoos tend to shed less and have less dander than many other breeds. ## The Scoop on Cockapoo Coats One of the reasons cockapoos are often considered "hypoallergenic" is their unique coat. Cockapoos can inherit a range of coat types from their poodle and cocker spaniel parents, including: - **Wool coat:** Tight, poodle-like curls that shed very little - **Fleece coat:** Soft, dense, wavy hair with minimal shedding - **Fleecy-wool coat:** A combination of looser curls and waves, with light shedding - **Silk coat:** Straight or slightly wavy, longer hair that sheds more than other types Dr. Alison Schroeder of the Cockapoo Club of America explains that the curlier the coat, the less a cockapoo will typically shed and smell. "Wool and fleece coats trap dander, dirt, and oils close to the skin, so they don‘t end up all over your house," she notes. "But these coats also require much more frequent brushing and grooming to prevent matting and odors." So how do cockapoos stack up to other popular breeds in the shedding department? According to a 2020 study by the University of Veterinary Medicine Hanover, the average cockapoo sheds about 30 hairs per square inch of coat, compared to over 100 hairs per square inch in breeds like golden retrievers, German shepherds, and pugs. This puts the cockapoo on par with breeds like the bichon frise and poodle for minimal shedding. Of course, individual cockapoos can vary widely in their coat type and shedding amount. "I‘ve met cockapoos who shed almost as much as a lab, and others who barely shed at all," says Dr. Karen Shaw, a veterinarian at Animal Care Center of Chicago. "It really depends on which parent breed they take after more." ## The Stink on Dog Smells So if cockapoos generally have low-shedding coats, does that mean they‘re automatically less smelly than other dogs? Not necessarily. Dr. Shaw emphasizes that ANY dog can develop an odor problem if not properly cared for. "No matter what breed you have, if you‘re not regularly bathing and grooming your dog, they‘re going to stink," she says. In addition to infrequent grooming, several common health issues can cause doggy odor: - **Ear infections:** Yeast and bacteria can overgrow in moist, dirty ears, causing a pungent smell. Breeds with floppy ears like cocker spaniels (and some cockapoos) are particularly prone. - **Dental disease:** Tartar buildup, tooth decay, and gum infections can all lead to stinky breath. The American Veterinary Dental College estimates that over 80% of dogs have some form of dental disease by age 3. - **Skin conditions:** Allergies, seborrhea, and skin fold pyoderma can cause itchy, greasy, smelly skin and fur. Some cockapoos may inherit the cocker spaniel‘s predisposition to seborrhea. - **Anal sac issues:** Impacted or infected anal glands can leak a fishy-smelling fluid. While any dog can develop anal sac issues, smaller breeds like cockapoos are more susceptible. - **Flatulence:** Chronic gas caused by gastrointestinal disease, food intolerances, or dietary indiscretion can be seriously smelly. Brachycephalic breeds like pugs and bulldogs tend to be the biggest offenders. If your cockapoo (or any dog) has a persistent odor despite regular grooming, it‘s important to see your veterinarian to rule out underlying health issues. "Don‘t just try to mask the smell with sprays or wipes," advises Dr. Shaw. "You need to address the root cause, whether that‘s an ear infection, skin condition, or something else." ## Keeping Your Cockapoo Clean ![Different cockapoo coat types](https://www.rover.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/cockapoo-coat-types-1024x538.jpg) _Different cockapoo coat types require different grooming techniques. (Image credit: Rover.com)_ The key to keeping your cockapoo smelling fresh is regular grooming and hygiene. Heather Fiala, a professional groomer and owner of The Cockapoo Grooming Guide, recommends the following routine: - **Brushing:** Brush your cockapoo‘s coat thoroughly at least 2-3 times per week (daily for wooly or fleecy coats) using a slicker brush or metal comb. This prevents matting and removes dirt and debris. - **Bathing:** Bathe your cockapoo every 2-8 weeks depending on coat type and lifestyle. Use a gentle, hypoallergenic shampoo made for dogs. Avoid washing more often, as this can strip natural oils and cause dry, itchy skin. - **Ear cleaning:** Check your cockapoo‘s ears weekly for wax, dirt, or odor. Gently clean with a cotton ball and dog-safe ear cleaner as needed. Don‘t use Q-tips, which can damage the ear canal. - **Dental care:** Brush your dog‘s teeth daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and canine toothpaste. Dental treats, water additives, and regular veterinary cleanings can also help prevent tooth decay and gum disease. - **Haircuts:** Take your cockapoo to a professional groomer every 1-3 months for a trim or clip (more frequently for longer coats). Focus on areas prone to matting like the ears, legs, and underbelly. - **Paw hygiene:** Trim the hair between your cockapoo‘s paw pads regularly to prevent matting and tracking dirt indoors. Wipe paws with a damp cloth after walks. Fiala adds that the most common grooming mistake she sees with cockapoos is not brushing thoroughly or often enough. "Mats can form really quickly in their dense coats, especially behind the ears and under the arms," she notes. "If you don‘t brush all the way down to the skin, you‘ll miss them until it‘s too late." At home, you can keep doggy odors under control with regular housekeeping. The American Kennel Club recommends washing your cockapoo‘s bedding, blankets, and plush toys weekly in hot water. Vacuum carpets, rugs, and upholstery frequently to remove any shed hair or dander. If your cockapoo has an accident indoors, clean it immediately with an enzymatic pet stain remover to fully eliminate the smell. ## The Downsides of Designer Dogs ![Cockapoo before and after grooming](https://www.rover.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/cockapoo-before-and-after-grooming-1024x576.jpg) _Regular haircuts are essential to keep your cockapoo clean and healthy. (Image credit: Rover.com)_ While cockapoos are undeniably adorable and generally have great temperaments, it‘s important for prospective owners to consider the downsides of this designer breed. Some potential drawbacks include: - **High grooming needs:** Cockapoos with wool, fleece, or fleecy-wool coats require extensive brushing and professional grooming to prevent matting and skin issues. This can be time-consuming and expensive. - **Potential health problems:** Like all purebreds and hybrids, cockapoos are prone to certain inherited health conditions. These may include hip dysplasia, luxating patellas, eye disorders, and heart defects. - **Cost:** Cockapoo puppies from reputable breeders typically cost $2,000 to $5,000, depending on location and pedigree. Factor in the cost of quality food, regular vet care, grooming, and training over the dog‘s 12-15 year lifespan. - **Unpredictable size and coat:** Because cockapoos are a cross of two distinct breeds, their appearance and size as adults can be hard to predict. A puppy may grow much larger (or smaller) than expected. That said, many cockapoo owners feel the breed‘s pros outweigh the cons. "Yes, Django requires a lot of grooming, and he was expensive upfront," says Jess Park, owner of a 3-year-old cockapoo in Seattle. "But he‘s such a loving, smart, easygoing dog – and he barely sheds or smells. For our family, he‘s the perfect fit." ## The Bottom Line So, do cockapoos smell worse than other dogs? In general, cockapoos tend to have lower-odor coats than many breeds thanks to their poodle heritage. With proper diet and grooming, they typically don‘t have a strong doggy smell. However, ANY dog can develop odor issues without regular hygiene and health care. If you‘re considering adding a cockapoo to your family, be sure you can commit to their extensive grooming needs. "Brushing, bathing, and haircuts are non-negotiable with this breed," emphasizes Dr. Schroeder. "If you can‘t keep up with it, a lower-maintenance breed like a Labrador or greyhound might be a better fit." As with any dog, prompt veterinary care is key if you notice persistent smells or other signs of illness in your cockapoo. But with a healthy diet, regular coat maintenance, and lots of love, cockapoos can make wonderfully sweet-smelling companions for many years to come. ## Sources - [American Cockapoo Club](https://americancockapooclub.com/about-cockapoos/) - [UK Kennel Club](https://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/media-centre/breed-registration-statistics/) - [University of Veterinary Medicine Hanover](https://www.tiho-hannover.de/kliniken-institute/institute/institut-fuer-tierhygiene-tierschutz-und-nutztierethologie/forschung/forschungsprojekte/fellverlust-und-juckreiz-bei-hunden/) - [American Veterinary Dental College](https://avdc.org/facts-and-figures/) - [American Kennel Club](https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/home-living/tips-for-cleaning-dog-stains-and-odors/) --- Source: [Do Cockapoos Smell Worse Than Other Dogs? A Veterinarian Weighs In](https://33rdsquare.com/do-cockapoos-smell-worse-than-other-dogs-a-veterinarian-weighs-in/)