Cockapoo vs Goldendoodle: 5 Key Differences

Given that both of these dog breeds are hybrids with poodles, you may be wondering what the differences are between a cockapoo vs goldendoodle. While they may seem similar upon first glance, there are actually a great deal of distinctions that can be made about either breed. But what might some of those distinctions be?

In this article, we will compare and contrast all of the differences between cockapoos and goldendoodles so that you can learn how to tell them apart. We will also discuss their behavioral differences, their size differences, as well as their potential differences in lifespan and health. Let’s get started and learn about these two dog breeds now! 

Comparing Cockapoo vs Goldendoodle

Key Differences Between Cockapoo vs Goldendoodle

There are many key differences between cockapoos and goldendoodles. The average cockapoo is smaller than the average goldendoodle in both size and weight. Goldendoodles are larger in the body and frame compared to the more petite and compact cockapoo. Finally, the cockapoo loves to swim and is arguably more playful than the average laid back goldendoodle. 

Let’s discuss all of these differences in more detail now.

Cockapoo vs Goldendoodle: Size

One of the main differences between cockapoos and goldendoodles is their size. While both of these breeds have toy, small, and standard sizes, the cockapoo is often smaller than the goldendoodle. Let’s discuss these size differences in more detail now. 

The average cockapoo reaches 10 to 16 inches in height, but the average goldendoodle reaches 12 to 24 inches in height. Additionally, most goldendoodles weigh anywhere from 25 to 75 pounds, while cockapoos weigh an average of 20 to 60 pounds. The sizes and weights of both of these dogs depend on the size of the breed, but cockapoos are more compact on average compared to the lanky goldendoodle.

Cockapoo vs Goldendoodle: Appearance

It can be very difficult to tell the difference between a goldendoodle and a cockapoo upon first glance. However, the body of a cockapoo tends to be more compact and slender compared to the body of a goldendoodle. However, both of these dogs are covered in a curly and silky fur coat, textured in the signature poodle hybrid style. 

Both of these dog breeds come in a variety of colors including black, cream, red, brown, and apricot. However, cockapoos have additional markings and colors on their bodies, while goldendoodles tend to be just one color. Keep in mind that this is not a hard and fast rule. You may be able to tell the difference between a cockapoo and goldendoodle based on their ears. 

The cockapoo has long and relatively large ears compared to the size of its face, while the goldendoodle has an ear size that is more practical and more proportional to its head. You can tell a goldendoodle from a cockapoo when looking at the skull and head shape, as a goldendoodle has a face similar to a golden retriever rather than a poodle. 

Cockapoo vs Goldendoodle: Original Reason for Breeding

The cockapoo and goldendoodle were both originally bred for different reasons. For example, goldendoodles originally came about because they were desirable as guide dogs, while cockapoos were created to be reliable and healthy household companions with a hunting dog background and ancestry. However, both of these dog breeds are frequently bred and purchased for households and families nowadays. 

Cockapoo vs Goldendoodle: Behavior

There are a few differences in the behaviors of the cockapoo versus the behaviors of the goldendoodle. While both of these dogs are friendly and intelligent given their poodle backgrounds, the cockapoo is considered to be more playful compared to the goldendoodles’ laid back nature. 

It is important to note that given the high intelligence of both of these dog breeds, their energy levels need to be addressed and cared for in great detail. Both cockapoos and goldendoodles are prone to separation anxiety when away from their humans or bored, so keep this in mind if you are thinking about adopting either of these two dog breeds.

Cockapoo vs Goldendoodle: Lifespan

A final difference between Cockapoos and goldendoodles is their lifespan. While they both live to reach a similar age, the average cockapoo lives slightly longer than the average goldendoodle. This is likely due to the cockapoos’ smaller size, as smaller dog breeds tend to live longer than large dog breeds. 

For example, the cockapoo lives anywhere from 12 to 16 years, while the goldendoodle lives anywhere from 12 to 15 years. However, life span differs from dog to dog as well as household to household. Feeding your dog a healthy and well-balanced diet in addition to frequent exercise is one of the best means of ensuring that your dog has a long and healthy life!

Cockapoo vs Goldendoodle: What Kinds of Haircuts Work Well?

One distinctive characteristic of both cockapoos and goldendoodles is that they are cousins of poodles, who historically have sported very interesting haircuts! The “poodle” in your dog’s ancestry points to your dog likely having naturally wavy or curly hair. We’ve created a list of some haircut options that may work for your cockapoo or goldendoodle, piggybacking off of those time-tested cuts that poodles have proven are attractive and workable.

• Dutch Cut (Mohawk) While this cut is a popular choice for poodles who compete in shows, results may vary with your cockapoo or goldendoodle. This classic cut features long hair on the top of the head, while the facial hair is shaved, giving the dog a mohawk look. The sides are left medium–length, while the paws are also shaved. The tail can also sport a pom pom or longer hair (if your dog’s hair won’t create a pom pom).
• Lion Cut As the name implies, your cockapoo or goldendoodle will look similar to a lion with this cut, as the neck and wither hair are left long to resemble a lion’s mane, while the legs, back, muzzle, and forehead are cut short. The tail is shaved to the near end, which is left long to give it a pom pom effect.
• Poodle Cut (Teddy Bear Cut) If your cockapoo vs goldendoodle enjoys masquerading as a wild animal, another option besides the lion cut is the teddy bear cut, which is basically a poodle cut. This mid-length haircut showcases the dog’s natural curls, while its face is cut to look rounded, and its paw hair is left longer to mimic bear paws. A pom pom tail is an option with this popular cut.
• Lamb Cut This cut conjures domestic tranquility, as your Goldendoodle or cockapoo will look like a sweet lamb. While the body hair is cut short, the legs are cut to a medium length. The head, feet, and tail can be tailored to the owner’s preference.
• Short Cut Not only is this cut one of the most popular for most cockapoo vs goldendoodle owners, but it is also low maintenance. All the body hair is cut short, hair on the ears is left longer, and the face and paws are shaved.
• Puppy Cut This hairstyle is popular for multiple dog breeds. The dog’s body hair is cut short, but the facial hair is left longer. This cut is fairly low-maintenance, but you’ll need to give your dog regular brushing.
• Summer Cut When the summer heat turns up, this haircut can help your cockapoo vs goldendoodle stay cool. All the hair is cut very short except for pom poms on the legs and a tufted or pom pom tail.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Lee Ph/Shutterstock.com

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