Havapoo vs Cockapoo

Havapoos and Cockapoos are two poodle hybrids that came about in the later half of the 20th century. These companion dogs are extremely similar and share a genetic heritage thanks to their poodle parents, but the two differ in some ways according to their other halves. Today, we will look at the Havapoo vs Cockapoo and see what makes them special. Let’s get started!

Comparing a Havapoo and a Cockapoo

The 5 main differences between a Havapoo and a Cockapoo

Havapoos and Cockapoos mostly differ in their breed mixes and genetic heritage. The Havapoo is a cross between a Havanese and a poodle, while the Cockapoo is a cross between a Cocker Spaniel and a poodle.

During the late 1900s, breed designers began creating new “hybrid” dogs with the hopes of creating a new and marketable dog for people all over the country. From this breeding craze, dozens of poodle hybrids were born, including the now-popular Goldendoodle, Labradoodle, and more. Out of that period also came the Havapoo and Cockapoo! There are generally three recognized poodle breeds: standard, mini, and toy. Hundreds of poodle hybrids of different sizes have been created using these poodles.

The Havapoo is a hybrid breed that crosses a Havanese and a poodle. Generally, Havapoos are created with a mini or toy poodle, creating a smaller lapdog. Cockapoos are often crossed with mini and toy poodles, but standard poodles are occasionally used, resulting in a “maxi” Cockapoo.

Aside from breed history, these breeds are extremely similar in temperament and appearance. Additionally, hybrid dog breeds are extremely variable as they pull genetics from a wider pool, allowing for more drift. As such, there are no official breed standards for most hybrids, just generalities.

Let’s explore more of their similarities and differences below!

Havapoo vs Cockapoo: Breed history and genetics

The Havapoo is a cross between a Havanese and either a mini or toy poodle. Havanese are a very old breed, first bred in Havana, Cuba, giving them their name. They were first bred to be the lapdogs for the ruling Cuban royalty and have kept that loving, docile nature to this day. Havanese are grouped as part of the Bichon family, along with the Bichon Frise and the Maltese.

The Cockapoo crosses between a Cocker Spaniel and, most commonly, a mini or toy poodle. Standard poodles are occasionally used, resulting in the colloquially termed “maxi” Cockapoo. The Cocker Spaniel is a sporting and companion dog and is generally recognized as one of the oldest sporting breeds around.

Havapoo vs Cockapoo: Size

The Havapoo gets its size from its poodle parent, can range from 7-30 lbs, and stands around 15 inches tall. Toy poodles are the smaller poodle types, resulting in the smallest Havapoo variations. The mini poodle is a little larger and covers the upper range for Havapoos, although the breed is still quite small overall.

The Cockapoo is most commonly crossed with a mini or toy poodle, resulting in a similar size to the Havapoo. Mini and toy crosses often weigh between 12-20 lbs and stand 14–15 inches at the shoulder. However, standard poodle mixes can reach up to 65 lbs and are referred to as maxi Cockapoos.

Havapoo vs Cockapoo: Appearance

The Havapoo can come in black, white, brown, tan, grey, silver, and apricot colorations, or a mixture of any of them. Additionally, they come in two fur types: dense and curly or long and silky. The dense and curly hair is more poodle-like, and the long and silky is more Havanese-like.

The Cockapoo can come in almost any color or combination of colors. Additionally, their coats can be straight, wavy, or curly, depending on the parents’ genetics. Often, they will resemble one of the parents more heavily.

Havapoo vs Cockapoo: Temperament

The Havapoo is an intelligent and gentle breed that makes a wonderful lap dog or companion. They are generally known to be beloving, affectionate, and sensitive towards their owners and don’t mind strangers.

The Cockapoo is also intelligent and gentle (owing to its poodle heritage), but many consider it more active than the Havapoo due to its sporting dog heritage. Still, the docile mini or toy poodle cross would pull them towards being a loving family dog, even if they need more exercise and action than the royal lap-sitting Havanese hybrid.

Havapoo vs Cockapoo: Price

Both breeds will vary in price according to the breeder.

Havapoos often go for $600-$1,800 as puppies, with certain breeders even charging $5,000.

Cockapoos rarely exceed $1,200.

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