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Cockapoos are one of the most popular designer dogs. They are a mix of the American Cocker Spaniel and the Poodle. Cockapoos come in many different sizes, colors, and temperaments.
There are various Cockapoo generations, such as F1, F1B, F1BB, F2, and so on. This makes it difficult to know which one is appropriate for you and how each of them differs from the next. So, what exactly is an F1 Cockapoo? Is it similar to other Cockapoo generations in terms of looks or temperament?
An F1 Cockapoo results from breeding a Cocker Spaniel with a Poodle. This is the original first-generation Cockapoo with 50% Cocker Spaniel and 50% Poodle genes. However, random traits from either parent can be expressed with no predictability of the offspring’s appearance.
In this blog post, we will cover all the details about the Cockapoo generations and how each compares to the others. We will also discuss the Cockapoo generation’s physical appearances, sizes, colors, and temperaments and answer other frequently asked questions.
Let’s dive in.
Table of Contents
The Cockapoo Generations
The Cockapoo is a cross between the Cocker Spaniel and the Poodle. Cockapoos can be bred in several different ways, which depending on how they were bred, results in different generations of cockapoos.
There can be a lot of confusion surrounding the different generations of Cockapoos. So to better understand the generations let’s break it down.
The first step is understanding what an F-generation even is.
What Does The “F” Mean In The Cockapoo Generations?
You’ve probably seen a few generation names, such as F1b Cockapoo or F2 Cockapoo, but what does the “F” mean?
The ‘F’ in the Cockapoo generations stands for filial, which means “generation after the parental generation.” So an F-generation Cockapoo is just the offspring of the Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle.
What Does The Number Mean?
Any number following the F, such as 1 or 2, refers to the generation number. For example, F1 means generation one, and F2 means generation two.
What Does The “B” Mean?
In addition, there is also the letter ‘B’ that shows up in generation names. The ‘B’ refers to a backcross. For example, an F1B Cockapoo is a first-generation backcross. A backcross is when a Cockapoo is bred back to one of the parent breeds. For example, the F1b Cockapoo is a backcross between a Cockapoo and a Poodle.
So now that you have a better understanding let’s break down how the generations affect the Cockapoo’s genetics and how each generation is different from the next.
Genetics Of Cockapoo Generations
Here are the most common generations of the Cockapoo:
F1 Cockapoo: 50% Poodle & 50% Cocker Spaniel
F1B Cockapoo: 75% Poodle & 25% Cocker Spaniel
F1B Reverse Cockapoo: 25% Poodle & 75% Cocker Spaniel
F1BB Cockapoo: 87.5% Poodle & 12.5% Cocker Spaniel
F2 Cockapoo: 50% Poodle & 50% Cocker Spaniel
F2B Cockapoo: 62.5% Poodle & 37.5% Cocker Spaniel
F2BB Cockapoo: 81.25% Poodle & 18.75% Cocker Spaniel
F3 Cockapoo: Percentages will vary depending on which dogs were used for breeding. There are a few possibilities for this generation.
Generally speaking, when it comes to Cockapoo, most breeders will push to backcross with Poodles.
Since Poodles are non-shedding and have hypoallergenic properties, it’s no wonder that breeders want to increase the Poodle percentage in each generation. So it’s rare to find backcrosses like the F1b reverse.
F1 Cockapoo
What is An F1 Cockapoo?
An f1 generation Cockapoo also referred to as the first cross-generation, is a cross between a purebred Cocker Spaniel and a purebred Poodle.
This means they inherit 50% Poodle genes and 50% Cocker Spaniel genes.
However, when genes are split 50/50, they may manifest a range of characteristics from either parent. It’s the same reason siblings can appear so different even though they have the same mother and father.
This is why the appearance of an F1 Cockapoos is impossible to predict. They could express more genes from the Poodle or the Cocker Spaniel.
However, an F1 Cockapoo is generally going to be somewhere in the middle of its parent breeds when it comes to size, coat type, and temperament.
F1 Cockapoo Appearance
The appearance of an F1 Cockapoo can be a variety of different things and is impossible to predict. They could take after the Cocker Spaniel with straight, wavy hair, or they could take after the Poodle with curly hair. It could even be a combination.
They can also have a variety of colors. The most common colors are black, brown, and white. But they can really be any color that Cocker Spaniels and Poodles come in.
The most desirable F1 Cockapoos will have a round face with floppy ears and a non-shedding coat.
F1 Cockapoo Size
The F1 Cockapoo can come in different sizes depending on the Poodle used for breeding.
Poodles can be standard, miniature, and toy sizes. So this can play a role in the size of the F1 Cockapoo. Even so, when it comes to predicting an F1 Cockapoos size, it’s practically impossible. It’s not until reaching the backcross generation (like the f1B) that size can be more accurately predicted.
Here are some of the common sizes for F1 Cockapoos:
- Standard F1 Cockapoo: Range from 15-18 inches and can weigh up to 19 pounds.
- Miniature F1 Cockapoo: Range from 11 to 14 inches and can weigh 13 to 18 pounds.
- Toy F1 Cockapoo: Range from 8 to 10 inches and average less than 6 pounds.
F1 Cockapoo Temperament
F1 Cockapoos are intelligent, easy to train, and love making their owners happy–making them perfect for families with kids or other animals. They are outgoing, gentle, and social pups that enjoy being a part of the action.
F1 Cockapoo Sedding & Grooming
An F1 Cockapoo may shed lots of hair or not much at all. They are not guaranteed to be hypoallergenic, but if they carry more Poodle genetics, they might be.
For grooming, they will need to be brushed regularly and their coat trimmed every few months. They will also need to have their teeth brushed, their nails clipped, and their ears cleaned. Frequent baths are not necessary but can be done as needed.
F1 Cockapoo Lifespan
The F1 Cockapoo’s lifespan is typically around 10 – 15 years.
However, if they are made with miniature or toy poodles, these dogs will often live slightly longer.
F1B Cockapoo
What Is An F1B Cockapoo?
An F1B Cockapoo is a first-generation backcross.
In other words, it is bred from an F1-generation Cockapoo and a purebred Poodle or Cocker Spaniel. Since a Poodle is usually the chosen breeding partner, most F1B Cockapoos are 75% Poodle and 25% Cocker Spaniel.
However, if a Cocker Spaniel is chosen, then the F1B would be 75% Cocker Spaniel and 25% Poodle.
The reason breeders usually opt for the Poodle is that the added 25% poodle genes help to reduce some negative traits of the F1 generation, which commonly stems from the Cocker Spaniel parent.
Backcross generations are bred to reduce negative traits that may be present in the F1 Cockapoo. That’s also why most people favor F1B generations.
F1B generations are also much easier to predict when it comes to their physical appearance and temperament.
F1b Cockapoo Appearance
The F1B Cockapoo is going to look more like a Poodle than the F1 Cockapoo.
This is due to the fact that they are backcrossed with a Poodle. So most of their appearance will resemble a Poodle with some signs of Cocker Spaniel.
Their coat type will be wavy or curly and will have a softer coat than the F1 Cockapoo. They will also have a longer nose than an F1 Cockapoo, and their ears will hang down.
The F1B Cockapoo can come in any color or combination of colors that Poodles come in. This includes black, brown, white, cream, and apricot.
F1b Cockapoo Size
The F1b cockapoo is going to be slightly larger than the F1 since it contains 75% Poodle. So they can be anywhere from 10″ to 20″ in height and can weigh anywhere from 6 to 30 pounds.
F1b Cockapoo Temperament
The F1b Cockapoo is going to have a great temperament.
This is due to the fact that the Poodle parent is known for being an intelligent, easy-to-train, and gentle dog. The Cocker Spaniel parent is also known for being outgoing, social, and loving–making them perfect for families with kids or other animals.
The F1b Cockapoo is going to be a great family dog that loves being a part of the action. However, they are high-energy dogs that require daily exercise. When not given enough exercise, they can become destructive.
F1b Cockapoo Sedding & Grooming
The F1b Cockapoo will have very little to no shedding and be considered hypoallergenic.
They will still require regular grooming, which includes brushing, bathing, and trimming every few months. They will also need their teeth brushed, their nails clipped, and their ears cleaned on a regular basis.
Since they do have mostly the Poodle’s hair, they will need professional grooming every month.
F1b Cockapoo Lifespan
The F1b Cockapoos lifespan is typically around 10 – 15 years. However, if they are made with miniature or toy poodles, these dogs will often live slightly longer.
F1bb Cockapoos
What Is An F1bb Cockapoo?
The F1bb Cockapoos are a double backcross. In other words, an F1b Cockapoo is bred with a Poodle or Cocker Spaniel.
This leaves the breed with 87.5% Poodle genes and 12.5% Cocker Spaniel genes or the other way around (though Poodles are almost always used).
And just like the purpose of the F1b generation, the F1bb-Cockapoos also exist to further reduce “negative traits” of F1b-generation Cockapoos.
However, most of the time, F1bb generations look identical to a Poodle. This can take away from the Cockapoos’ unique appearance.
F1bb Cockapoo Appearance
Since they are a double backcross with a Poodle, the F1bb Cockapoo will look even more like a Poodle than an F1b Cockapoo.
Their coat type will be mostly curly, and they will have a very soft coat. They will also have a longer nose than an F1b Cockapoo, and their ears will be similar to Poodles.
F1bb Cockapoo Size
The F1bb Cockapoo, on average, will be even larger than the F1 and F1b since it contains 87.5% Poodle. So they can be anywhere from 10″ to 22″ in height and can weigh anywhere from 10 to 35 pounds. This depends on which sized Poodle was used for the backcross.
F1bb Cockapoo Temperament
The F1bb Cockapoo is going to have a great temperament.
This is due to the fact that they are double bred with a Poodle–which is known for being an intelligent, easy-to-train, and gentle dog.
The F1bb Cockapoo is going to be a great family dog that loves being a part of the action. They will be high energy like the Poodle and require daily exercise.
F1bb Cockapoo Sedding & Grooming
The F1bb Cockapoo does not shed and is hypoallergenic.
They are low maintenance but will require professional grooming, just like a poodle.
They will also need to have their teeth brushed, their nails clipped, and their ears cleaned. Frequent baths are not necessary but can be done as needed.
F1bb Cockapoo Lifespan
The F1bb Cockapoos lifespan is typically around 10 – 15 years. However, if they are made with miniature or toy poodles, these dogs will often live slightly longer.
F2 Cockapoo
What Is An F2 Cockapoo?
An F2 generation Cockapoo is also referred to as the second generation cross. It’s a cross between two F1-generation Cockapoos.
This means an F2 Cockapoo is bred with two Cockapoos that are both 50% purebred Cocker Spaniel and 50% purebred Poodle.
This results in a Cockapoo with the same genetic makeup as an F1-Cockapoo.
However, the F2-Cockapoos are even more unpredictable than the F1 Cockapoos. You are basically rolling the dice when getting an F2-Cockapoo.
F2 Cockapoo Appearance
The way F2 Cockapoos look can be hard to predict as there is a lot of variation. An F2 Cockapoo is even worse than an F1 Cockapoo when it comes to looking like a Cocker Spaniel or Poodle.
You are practically tossing a coin. They can have a variety of colors and coat types. The most common colors are black, brown, and white. But they can really be any color that Cocker Spaniels and Poodles come in.
F2 Cockapoo Size
The F2 Cockapoo can come in different sizes depending on which parent the Cockapoo takes after more.
In addition, Poodles can be standard, miniature, and toy sizes. So this can play a role in the size of the F2 Cockapoo. Even so, when it comes to predicting an F2 Cockapoos size, it’s practically impossible.
However, they are usually from 10″ to 18″ in height and can weigh anywhere from 6 to 30 pounds.
F2 Cockapoo Temperament
The Cockapoo is a breed of dog that is energetic, intelligent, and loveable. They are perfect for families with children or other pets because they are lively, enthusiastic, and eager to please their owners. They are outgoing, kindhearted, and sociable puppies who like being a part of the action.
F2 Cockapoo Sedding & Grooming
An F2 Cockapoo might shed a great deal of hair or hardly any. They are not necessarily hypoallergenic though they could be if carrying more Poodle genetics.
For grooming needs, this will depend on the coat type. If they have a coat more like a Cocker Spaniel, then they will require frequent brushing to prevent matting and tangling. If they have a coat more like a Poodle, then they will require less brushing but will need to be professionally groomed every month or so.
F2 Cockapoo Lifespan
The F2 Cockapoos lifespan is typically around 10 – 15 years. However, if they are made with miniature or toy poodles, these dogs will often live slightly longer.
F2b Cockapoo
What Is An F2b Cockapoo?
An F2b Cockapoo is a second-generation backcross. However, this is where things change a bit. It’s not as simple as just backcrossing an F2 Cockapoo.
With an F2b Cockapoo, it’s bred from an F1 Cockapoo with an F1b Cockapoo. Creating a second-generation backcross.
In other words, an F2b Cockapoo is 37.5% Cocker Spaniel and 62.5% Poodle. This breed will keep many of the Poodle genes, but the puppies will have more Cockapoo traits.
F2b Cockapoo Appearance
The F2b Cockapoo has slightly less Poodle than the other backcross, so it will present more Cocker Spaniel than the rest.
They can have a wavy or curly coat. The coat is often soft and dense. They can be various Cocker Spaniel or Poodle colors such as white, black, brown, cream, apricot, or red.
F2b Cockapoo Size
The F2b Cockapoo can come in different sizes depending on which Poodle was used for breeding. The standard, miniature, or toy size.
Regardless of which size, they are usually from 6″ to 18″ in height and can weigh anywhere from 6 to 30 pounds.
F2b Cockapoo Temperament
The F2b Cockapoo is a breed of dog that is energetic, intelligent, and affectionate. They are perfect for families with children or other pets because they are lively, enthusiastic, and eager to please their owners. They’re sociable, kindhearted, and outgoing, and they enjoy being involved in the action.
F2b Cockapoo Sedding & Grooming
The F2b Cockapoo might shed a low amount or hardly any. They are mostly hypoallergenic, but they are not always. It depends if they take after the Poodle parent’s coat more.
For grooming needs, this will depend on the coat type. If they have a coat more like a Cocker Spaniel, then they will require frequent brushing to prevent matting and tangling. If they have a coat more like a Poodle, then they will require less brushing but will need to be professionally groomed every month or so.
F2bb Cockapoos
What Is An F2bb Cockapoo?
The F2bb Cockapoos are another backcross made with a backcross. Meaning they are bred from an F2b Cockapoo and a purebred Poodle.
The F2bb generation Cockapoo is very similar to the F1bb generation but with slightly less Poodle. These generations are hard to come by as most breeders stop at F1B.
This is also technically a fourth generation Cockapoo which takes a lot of time and effort to reach.
F2bb Cockapoo Appearance
Since they are a double backcross with a Poodle, the F2bb Cockapoo will look even more like a Poodle than an F1b Cockapoo. The F2bb is very similar to the F1bb since they both have a majority of Poodle genes.
Their coat type will be mostly curly. They will also have the same colors as a Poodle with floppy ears and fluffy tails.
F2bb Cockapoo Size
The F2bb Cockapoo, on average, will be even larger than all the other generations except the F1bb. They can be anywhere from 10″ to 22″ in height and can weigh anywhere from 6 to 35 pounds. This depends on which sized Poodle was used for the backcross. They are practically the same as the F1bb generation.
F2bb Cockapoo Temperament
The F2bb Cockapoo temperament is very similar to the F1bb and all other Cockapoos. They are bred to be intelligent, loving, social dogs that make great family pets. They will get along with other animals and children.
The F2bb Cockapoo is often compared to the Labrador Retriever in temperament as they are both bred to be great family pets.
F2bb Cockapoo Sedding & Grooming
The F2bb Cockapoo does not shed and is hypoallergenic. They are low maintenance but will require professional grooming, just like a poodle.
They will also need to have their teeth brushed, their nails clipped, and their ears cleaned. Frequent baths are not necessary but can be done as needed.
F2bb Cockapoo Lifespan
The F2bb Cockapoos lifespan is typically around 10 – 15 years. However, if they are made with miniature or toy poodles, these dogs will often live slightly longer.
F3 Cockapoo
What is An F3 Cockapoo?
The last Cockapoo generation I will mention is the F3.
An F3-generation Cockapoo is the first of many multi-generation Cockapoos. Multi-gene cockapoos can be called F4 Cockapoos, F2bb Cockapoos, and many others.
This generation of Cavapoos is easier to predict in terms of appearance. There are a few different ways that the F3 Cavapoo can happen, for example, by breeding two F2 Cavapoos or two F1b Cavapoos.
The Percentage of genes from each parent will differ depending on how the generation was formed. However, it’s likely the F3 Cockapoo will have more Poodle genes than the Cocker Spaniel.
F3 Cockapoo Appearance
F3 Cockapoos generally have curly hair that can be wavy. They will have the Poodle face and ears with a Cocker Spaniel nose.
The coat of an F3 generation Cockapoo can be a wide variety of colors. The most common colors are black, brown, white, cream, apricot, and red.
F3 Cockapoo Size
The F3 Cockapoo can be anywhere from 8″ to 22″ in height and can weigh anywhere from 6 to 30 pounds. This depends on which sized Poodle was used for the backcross.
F3 Cockapoo Temperament
The F3 generation Cockapoos are bred to be intelligent, loving, friendly dogs that make great family pets. They will get along with other animals and children.
They are practically the same temperament as the other generations.
F3 Cockapoo Sedding & Grooming
F3 Cockapoos are usually hypoallergenic and non-shedding. However, there is some slight variability. They will require professional grooming every few months and regular brushing.
They will also need to have their teeth brushed, their nails clipped, and their ears cleaned. Frequent baths are not necessary but can be done as needed.
What Is The Price Of A Cockapoo?
The Average Cockapoo price is roughly $700 to $2,500. Prices vary depending on the breeder, coat type, generation, size, color, and eye color.
For example, if you want a miniature or toy Cockapoo, the cost for one is more like $1500 to $4000 and potentially higher.
Where Can You Buy A Cockapoo?
If you are looking to buy Cockapoo puppies, we recommend only buying from a reputable breeder.
Remember, not all breeders are created equal– do your research to ensure you’re getting a healthy puppy from a reputable source.
Since every location is a little different, here are some places you can start looking are:
- https://puppyfinder.com/
- https://puppies.com/
- https://marketplace.akc.org/puppies
F1 Vs. F2 Cockapoo Which Is Better?
When comparing the F1 and F2 Cockapoos, it is important to consider what you want in your dog.
To decide which is best comes down to what you prefer and which dog is more fitting for your lifestyle. However, comparing these two generation is tough. This is because they both are difficult to predict.
In general, the F2 Cockapoos have less predictability than the F1. So, generally speaking, it’s better to pick the F1 Cockapoo over the F2 if you want to have a better idea of what size, coat type, and personality your dog will have.
F1 Vs. F1b Cockapoo Which Is Better?
When comparing the F1 and F1b generation Cockapoos, most consider the F1b generation to be better. This is because the F1b generation is a cross between the F1 Cockapoo and a purebred Poodle.
Therefore, the F1b Cockapoo has a higher percentage of Poodle in them, around 75% Poodle and 25% Cocker Spaniel.
Because of this, they are more predictable in terms of their physical appearance and temperament. It also means they are low-shedding, hypoallergenic dogs. The F1 Cockapoo, on the other hand, has a lot of variety and unpredictability.
The F1 and F1b generations are both going to produce fantastic dogs, but if you are someone who suffers from allergies, the F1b Cockapoo is going to be best.
If you don’t have allergies, don’t mind shedding, or the extra long hair a Cocker Spaniel brings to the table, then the F1 Cockapoo will be the better choice for you.
Final Thoughts
The F1 Cockapoo is an excellent dog for families or individuals who are looking for a loving, smart, and easy-to-train companion.
Although the F1 Cockapoo generation is unpredictable, they make up for it with personality and cuteness. But, If you’re looking for a small to medium-sized dog breed that doesn’t shed and is hypoallergenic, then the F1b Cavapoo is the best generation Cavapoo for you.
The other generations that would be the closest match to the F1b are the F1bb, F2b, and F2bb. This is because they all get most of their genes from the Poodle parent. So they will all have similar temperaments and looks.
However, if you don’t care for the high energy or hypoallergenic coat, you may want to look into the other generations (F1, F1b reverse, F2, or F3). These generations can have more cocker spaniel in their genes.
Otherwise, all Cavapoo generations make great family pets. So it really just boils down to preference.
Other posts you might find interesting:
F1 Labradoodle: Full Generation Guide + F2 & F1B Comparisons
What’s An F1b Cavapoo? Generation Guide & Comparisons