Some of the best tips for grooming a cockapoo are to groom it every day, maintain the cleanliness of its ears, and learn to make the dog comfortable during each grooming session. While grooming a cockapoo is less work than grooming some other dogs, it is still an everyday occurrence. In addition, it is important to brush the dog’s coat thoroughly, especially if it has more than one layer. Cockapoos can also get very nervous during grooming, particularly when having its nails clipped, so putting the dog at ease should be a priority. Not all cockapoos can be groomed by their owners, however, especially if the dog has had a bad experience in the past.
The ideal owner grooms his or her cockapoo every day. Cockapoos generally do not require the level of maintenance a poodle would, but their coats can become matted without proper care. This kind of dog sometimes has multiple layers to its coat, all of which need to be brushed. A common mistake people make when grooming a cockapoo is neglecting the bottom coat, which then becomes matted and may need to be shaved. Cockapoos also need to be brushed thoroughly before each bath so that water and soap can penetrate the layers of fur.
Like many dogs, cockapoos have floppy ears that can be prone to developing infections without intervention. The dog's ears should be cleaned on a regular basis with special cleaning solutions. Some owners also keep the dog’s ear fur clipped to prevent excess wax development. If the cockapoo is acquired when it is still a puppy, touching its ears often can make grooming them easier later in life. A veterinarian usually checks a cockapoo’s ears for infection or excessive wax and grime on each routine visit, then lets the owner know if any changes should be made to the grooming schedule.
The temperaments of cockapoos vary, largely because they are a mix of two breeds rather than a standard breed. When grooming a cockapoo, sometimes it is best to get on the floor with the dog to make it comfortable. The owner bringing him or herself down to the dog’s level can put the dog into a more playful mood. Speaking in a reassuring tone of voice and avoiding sudden movements will also improve the cockapoo’s behavior. Dogs with extreme anxiety issues regarding grooming techniques might need to see a professional groomer instead, who is more experienced with dealing with stressed animals.