Here are a few of the common conditions cockapoos may experience:
Ears
Cockapoos’ large ear lobes and long ear canals tend to make the ear prone to inflammation and infection. Most ear problems are caused by allergies leading to a hot, red and itchy ear, which in turn causes a yeast and bacterial infection. Early diagnosis and treatment helps prevent pain and suffering and can prevent the condition worsening and thereby prevent the need for surgery.
Eyes
Cockapoos suffer from several eye conditions, such as conjunctivitis and entropion.
Conjunctivitis is inflammation of the eye, causing it to become runny, red and sometimes itchy. The most common underlying cause is an allergy, especially in young dogs. It is normally easily treated with medication although some dogs require ongoing treatment to keep the condition under control.
Entropion is where the eyelid rolls in causing the eyelashes to scratch the eyeball. This condition requires a straightforward surgery which we have performed hundreds of times.
Teeth
Cockapoos have large teeth for their size, and their narrow jaw means that they are prone to plaque and tartar build up on the outside of the teeth. Dry food and chews help to prevent this but even with this it is still sometimes necessary to scale and polish the teeth under general anaesthetic every couple of years.
Feet
Cockapoos have very sensitive paws and are prone to allergies which cause redness and itchiness between their toes. This leads to them biting their feet and in some cases causes them to limp especially when walking on pine tree needles. This can be treated, depending on the severity of the condition.
Lameness
This can be caused by orthopaedic conditions such as hip dysplasia and arthritis. We are very experienced with examining lame dogs and encourage owners to book an appointment if they are worried about their pet’s movement.
Gastrointestinal problems
Cockapoos are very prone to getting an upset stomach, which can cause diarrhoea, vomiting, straining to defecate and abdominal pain. The underlying cause is often inflammatory bowel disease, which is treated by changes in diet and, when needed, medication.
Licking below tail and straining to urinate
This can be caused by an immature vulva and requires straightforward surgery to correct.
Behaviour
Both cocker spaniels and poodles can be strong willed dogs, so naturally cockapoos can be as well. This means there is a need for early and consistent training, which we can help with and advise on.