Full Breakdown
Study Reveals Behavioral Concerns in Cockapoos Compared to Purebred Parents
3/20/2026, 7:05:32 AM
Findings from the Royal Veterinary College Study
A recent study conducted by the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) has revealed that mixed-breed dogs, particularly cockapoos, are more likely to exhibit "undesirable behaviors" compared to their purebred counterparts. The research, which surveyed 9,402 dog owners in the UK from February 21 to April 21, 2023, found that cockapoos, labradoodles, and cavapoos displayed significant behavioral differences from their purebred parents in over half of the comparisons made across various behavior categories. Notably, cockapoos showed increased aggression and rivalry towards other dogs, as well as heightened anxiety and excitability.
Behavioral Concerns and Owner Experiences
The study highlighted that 82% of the time, if a parent breed exhibited problematic behavior, their mixed-breed offspring were likely to display an exaggerated version of that behavior. For instance, Viv Smith, an owner of a cockapoo named Dolly, reported severe behavioral issues, including aggression towards family members. Smith expressed her concerns about Dolly's behavior, stating, "I would never tell anyone to get a cockapoo," emphasizing the need for potential owners to thoroughly research breed characteristics before making a decision.
Expert Opinions on Dog Behavior
Experts in animal behavior have weighed in on the findings. Dr. Rowena Packer, the senior author of the study, cautioned against preconceived notions that designer crossbreeds are inherently easy to train or safe with children. Dom Burke, a behavior policy officer at Dog's Trust, noted that factors such as health, socialization, and environmental influences play significant roles in a dog's behavior, beyond just breed. He emphasized the importance of seeking qualified professional support for training and socialization.
Criticism of Irresponsible Breeding Practices
The study also pointed to the potential for irresponsible breeding practices as the popularity of certain breeds increases. Karol Watson Todd, co-director of the Cockapoo Club of Great Britain, acknowledged the study's insights but stressed that dog behavior is influenced by multiple factors, including responsible breeding and proper socialization. She stated, "We do believe that dog behavior is influenced by many factors, not just the breed alone."
Implications for Prospective Dog Owners
The RVC's findings serve as a warning for prospective dog owners, urging them to avoid assumptions about the temperament and training needs of designer crossbreeds. The study advocates for thorough research and realistic expectations regarding training and socialization. Experts recommend that potential owners meet the parents of any puppy they are considering to better understand the behavioral traits that may be inherited.
What's Next for Research
Looking ahead, researchers plan to conduct follow-up studies to further investigate the causes of these behavioral issues and the long-term patterns associated with mixed-breed dogs. The RVC cautions that misconceptions about designer crossbreeds can have serious implications for both animal welfare and public safety, underscoring the need for evidence-based guidance in dog ownership.
Verbatim Quotes
- “These aren't the kind of behaviours we want to ignore. They're not benign.” — Dr. Rowena Packer, Senior Lecturer, RVC
- “I would never tell anyone to get a cockapoo," she added.” — Viv Smith, Cockapoo Owner
- “But we do believe that dog behaviour is influenced by many factors, not just the breed alone," she said.” — Karol Watson Todd, Co-Director, Cockapoo Club of Great Britain
- “As the demand for certain breeds increases, we see a lot more unscrupulous breeding going on, including really poor breeding practices and puppy smuggling,” — Dom Burke, Behaviour Policy Officer, Dog's Trust
