Cockapoos - pros and cons?

[punter]

Thinking of a second dog for 4 year old lab, any experiences of cockapoos? Tia.

Aren't the small poodle breeds carrying a lot of genetic health problems?

Aren't the small poodle breeds carrying a lot of genetic health problems?

There are some health issues which need testing for in miniature poodles but most of these are also present in the cocker spaniel so crossing the two breeds is no more or less likely to result in healthy dogs than breeding pedigree poodles with the same level of health testing.

Trionic Lettuce, I know that. I was just responding to the people who were saying poodles are much healthier choice.

I think poodles are lovely. It is just that the smaller ones have problems of their own.

I think these days most breeds have their own problems, can any one name a issue free breed?

Please don't peddle the myth of hypoallergenic dogs. Yes, some dogs cause fewer allergic reactions. However, many people are allergic to the dog's saliva. I've heard of so many dogs that were given up because of this myth.

JayneW63 A lot of dogs have less problems. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel had huge genetic problems, although a lovely breed. Many of the dogs that are less popular and have never had a phase of excessive inbreeding, are a lot less riddled with hereditary illnesses.

yes, I am aware of that, I was rather badly trying to point out that no dog is completely problem free. As a family we've had dogs with allergies, heart complaints, arthritis, and diabetes, only one was remotely a pedigree.

All you can do is try and be sensible and not take on a puppy farmed , or saddly over bred breed.