TV's favourite dog trainer, Graeme Hall (a.k.a. The Dogfather), has worked with, quite literally, thousands of naughty dogs since Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly first hit our screens over 100 episodes ago.
But there is one dog breed that he’s called upon to help more than any other – and it’s not what you might expect.
Cockapoos have recently become the UK’s second most popular puppy breed, according to the Royal Veterinary College (RVC), with approximately 600,000 in the UK. And it's easy to see why: a cross between Cocker Spaniels and Poodles, there’s a lot to love about these curly-coated cuties.
Yet they are also one of the breeds that Graeme works with the most. Cockapoos are a regular fixture on Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly, and the show's casting team are disproportionately flooded with cries for help from desperate Cockapoo owners.
What's the problem with Cockapoos?
The science backs up Graeme's observations. A recent RVC study revealed that, in 82% of cases where one Cockapoo parent showed an undesirable behaviour trait – such as separation anxiety or reactivity – the offspring showed a worse version of the same trait.
"People used to think you got the best of both breeds with a Cockapoo," says Graeme. "Cocker Spaniels are cute, obedient and trainable; Poodles are highly intelligent. But when you think about it, there's no reason you're guaranteed the best of both. You could just as easily end up with the worst traits of both breeds, or something in between.
"Cocker Spaniels are high-energy. They were bred to do a job, so they’re always looking for something to do. And when you mix that with the Poodle, another energetic dog originally bred for hunting that can be clever at manipulating people, it explains why Cockapoos are often more active than people bargain for."
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Graeme has also helped many Cockapoos with a much more serious problem: resource guarding.
Typically a spaniel trait, this involves a dog acting defensively in order to protect a particular 'resource' that they treasure – normally food, toys or a favourite place. This can escalate to aggression and even threats to attack anyone who intervenes or tries to get the 'resource' back from them. "It can be very scary and it's difficult to treat," Graeme says. "You have to go very slowly and really need professional advice."
Genetics are one thing, but, as with all dog behaviour, Graeme believes the real issue is a mix of nature and nurture.
He argues that Cockapoos were often presented as an ideal dog for first-time owners, particularly around lockdown, when they surged in popularity.
As a result, many new Cockapoo parents may not have been equipped to handle their more challenging behaviours and personality traits, or didn't have the right lifestyle to manage this.
Plus, during lockdowns, less-experienced owners had to resort to taking training advice from the internet and social media, which could have resulted in poorly-trained dogs.
When it comes to establishing behavioural patterns, Cockapoos’ adorable appearance can work against them too.
"When a cute puppy does something a bit naughty, they often get away with it – we might smile and giggle and take videos of them, so the dog thinks this is great and carries on," explains Graeme. "A few months down the line, when you realise that behaviour is not so cute and it becomes a problem, it’s a bit late. The dog has repeated it hundreds of times by then."
How can Cockapoo owners avoid behavioural issues?
While Cockapoo owners may be panicking at this point, Graeme is keen to reassure that they can be lovely dogs and good pets.
Training is key, though, particularly in their early years. "Don’t get your advice from social media or influencers," Graeme warns. "Talk to a professional dog trainer. If you have just got a Cockapoo, make sure you go to puppy school – early learning is so important, and you only get one shot at it."
If your Cockapoo shows any serious behaviour issues, such as resource guarding, it’s important to seek professional help. "It's easy to make the problem worse,” explains Graeme, “so it’s not worth taking any risks – especially if you have children in the house".
Should you get a Cockapoo?
While many Cockapoos are sweet, loving pets, it’s important not to think of them as an ‘easy option’ for first-time dog owners. “The well-behaved Cockapoos I’ve met are often in the hands of more experienced owners, or those who took the time to do proper training,” says Graeme.
If you are considering getting a Cockapoo, make sure you do your homework. Although it can be challenging when faced with such extreme levels of cuteness, keep a level head and focus on accurately assessing their temperament and suitability for your lifestyle.
For those wanting a family pet, pick a puppy from the right Cocker Spaniel strain. Avoid the offspring of 'working' Cocker Spaniels – these are ultra-active working gun dogs, so their puppies are more likely to be unsuited to home environments. Look for a ‘show’ Cocker parent, as this strain was bred for looks, so it is more likely to pass on a calmer temperament.
"Always talk to the breeder," adds Graeme. "Ask about the parents and what their personalities are like. When looking at a website or advert, do you get the impression they are prioritising temperament and health, rather than good looks? If not, move on."
As with any relationship, it takes two to tango. In the right hands, and with appropriate training and care,
Cockapoos can be the perfect pet and offer many years of love, companionship — and the best curls in the business.
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Cara is Commissioning Editor at Country Living, covering everything from style and interiors to sustainability, artisans and the great outdoors. She has previously worked for Good Housekeeping, Homes & Gardens, House Beautiful, Prima and Red, and has an MA in Magazine Journalism from City University and a BA in Music from the University of Oxford. Follow Cara on Instagram @caralaskaris or Linkedin.
