As one of the first breeders and owners of Cockapoos in the UK, we bred our first litter in 2007. But what is a Cockapoo?

The Cockapoo is a cross between a Cocker Spaniel, usually the mother, and a Poodle, usually Miniature.

Though relatively new in the UK Cockapoos have existed in the United States since the 1950's where they are almost a breed in their own right.

But contrary to belief it was not the States that developed the Cockapoo as there is evidence of there existence in France at the turn of the 20th century.

In crossing two pedigree dogs we get what is commonly known as 'Hybrid Vigour', that is the best qualities of each breed are manifested in the offspring with less genetic problems associated with each pure breed.

The English Cocker Spaniel used as the mother in most UK crosses is described as a 'merry little dog' and as an owner of 7 over the years, I can quite agree. Traditionally used to hunt woodcock, Cocker's have excellent noses, are great swimmers and are fabulous retrievers. They are intelligent and quick to learn. As a mother of three daughters I found them an excellent breed, patient and tolerant with my own children and they have adored playing with all their friends.

The intelligence of a Poodle is just a notch below that of a Border Collie. First bred in the Middle ages to retrieve waterfowl they became popular in this country in the 1960's. Poodles have a naturally buoyant coat, pom poms being traditionally clipped into their coat to keep their joints warm. Today Poodles are used in many cross breeds because of their coat, which is low shedding and hypo-allergenic, so suitable for people with allergies and has the added bonus of not having a 'doggy' odour.

Put these two breeds together and you have in our opinion the perfect dog. A highly intelligent, low shedding, happy, friendly medium sized pooch suitable for active families.