Cockapoo puppies tend to be quite healthy, and there aren’t many serious issues that are particularly common for them, but there are a few things that should be kept in mind and a few prevention habits that are worth starting early.

Knowing the symptoms of common health issues in Cockapoo puppies—and understanding when to seek advice—can help you spot problems early and keep them happy and healthy.

Written by our compassionate team of vets, this guide gives you trustworthy, up-to-date advice you can feel confident in.

1. Parasites

Because they love exploring and meeting other dogs and animals, Cockapoo puppies are prone to a whole range of parasites! Parasites can affect them internally (for example, worms in the digestive tract) and externally on the skin (fleas, ticks, mites). Some parasites can have serious effects, especially if they are present in large burdens.

Common parasites in puppies include:

• Worms: Roundworms, hookworms, tapeworms, and whipworms. Symptoms include diarrhoea, vomiting and a pot-bellied appearance. 

• Fleas: Tiny insects that bite and irritate the skin, sometimes causing secondary infections. 

• Ticks: Small parasites that attach to the skin. They can cause a skin reaction themselves, but the main worry is that they carry and spread severe infections. 

• Ear mites: Tiny parasites that live in the ear canal, causing irritation and infections.

Treatment
Your vet can prescribe safe medication for each type of parasite. They will take into account your living location and lifestyle. It’s important to keep up to date with regular parasite control; prevention is much easier and safer than treatment! The dense coat of Cockapoo puppies can make fleas difficult to spot. Don’t hesitate to ask for help or advice if you’re not sure if you’ve seen something on their skin!

2. Ear infections

Cockapoo puppies are prone to ear problems, both because of their floppy ears and the tendency to have quite a lot of hair in the ear canal. Early signs can be subtle, so being aware of the warning signs helps prevent pain and more serious problems from developing. 

Symptoms:

• Scratching at the ears or shaking their head frequently

• Painful or swollen ears

• Red, smelly, or waxy ears

Treatment
Ear infections are usually treated with vet-prescribed drops. Because ear problems are so common in Cockapoos, including regular ear cleaning in their care routine is usually advised. However, cleaning too often or too harshly can also cause issues. It’s best to clean just often enough to avoid the build-up of wax or irritation. Generally, check ears and wipe visible areas a few times a week. Use a good-quality ear cleaner for a thorough wash every 1-2 weeks. 

3. Tummy upsets

Tummy upsets are common in Cockapoos, especially as they like to explore the world with their mouths. Many cases clear up quickly with supportive treatment, but be careful that your puppy doesn’t eat something poisonous or something that could cause a blockage. Knowing what is dangerous and taking quick action will keep your puppy healthy.

Symptoms:

• Vomiting or loose stools

• Lethargy or loss of appetite

• Tummy pain: having a hunched posture or restlessness

Treatment
Mild cases usually resolve within a few days with small meals of a bland diet. Avoid sudden diet changes, prevent scavenging, and feed a high-quality diet to help keep your puppy’s tummy in optimal shape.

Cockapoo puppies don’t grow as fast as other breeds, but they still need quite high levels of some nutrients, due to their high energy levels and demanding coats. It’s important to make sure that they are eating a high-quality diet appropriate for their growth pattern. 

4. Respiratory infections (Kennel Cough)

It’s pretty common for puppies to cough or sneeze from time to time. Most of the time, it’s nothing to worry about, but some infections, like kennel cough, need a bit of extra care. Because their immune systems are still getting up to speed, puppies can pick things up quite easily—especially when they love being around lots of other dogs, as cockapoo puppies often do.

Symptoms of concern:

• Persistent hacking cough

• Sneezing or nasal discharge

• Lethargy and reduced appetite

Treatment
Supportive care is usually enough for mild cases, but more serious infections may need prescription medication. Vaccination helps reduce the severity of kennel cough.

5. Skin issues and allergies

Cockapoo puppies can develop skin problems quickly, including rashes, hot spots, and patchy hair loss. Causes range from parasites and puppy acne to early allergies, and some need prompt treatment to prevent worsening discomfort.

Symptoms of concern:

• Red and itchy skin

• Bald patches

• Flaky or scabby areas

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause and may include topical creams, oral medication, or dietary changes, and many mild cases can be supported at home with guidance. The coat of Cockapoos doesn’t require as much maintenance as that of other breeds, but routine care is still important and should start early. Brush with a soft brush 3–4 times a week to remove debris and prevent tangles, and use grooming time to quickly check ears and nails. Try to make it fun by mixing in lots of cuddles and a few treats.

6. Injuries 

Cockapoo puppies are energetic and curious, so scrapes and accidents are common. Knowing what is minor and what needs veterinary attention ensures small incidents don’t become serious problems.

Symptoms of concern:

• Limping or reluctance to move

• Swelling or bruising

• Pain when touched

Treatment
Minor cuts may heal at home, but fractures, sprains, or deep wounds need veterinary attention. Supervision and safe play help prevent injuries.

7. Eye problems

Cockapoo can inherit genetic eye conditions from their parent breeds. These are very rare but may include serious issues like retinal atrophy, cataracts or glaucoma. Ideally, the parents and relatives have been checked for eye disease. Please check with the breeder if you’re unsure. If a problem develops, speak to a vet straight away and make sure to follow advice regarding follow-ups and ongoing treatment.

Symptoms of concern:

• Bumping into objects or becoming scared/hesitant in previously familiar situations

• Cloudy eyes or differently-sized pupils

• Pain when touched around the head or eyes

Treatment
Speak to a vet to discuss a thorough eye examination and treatment options.

Q&A: Common Puppy Concerns

Q: How often should my cockapoo puppy see the vet?
A: After their initial vaccinations—usually between 8 and 12 weeks—most vets recommend another full exam at around 6 months old. These visits are a great chance to track their development.

Q: When should I seek emergency care?
A: If your cockapoo puppy has any of the following signs, seek emergency care: severe vomiting, bloody diarrhoea, suspected poisoning, difficulty breathing, collapse, or signs of pain or trauma.

Tips for Success

• Observe daily: Keep an eye on your puppy's appetite, toilet habits, energy, and behaviour. Small changes can indicate health problems.

• Provide preventive care: Vaccinations, parasite control, and a high-quality diet can make a big difference to your puppy's health.

• Protect their environment: Supervision, safe toys, and puppy-proofing reduce accidents and injuries.

• Form a routine: Regular feeding, grooming, training, walks, and toilet breaks help with house training and overall well-being.

• Trust your vet: Early intervention can prevent small problems from becoming serious.

Join us next month as we explore how much exercise and sleep your growing cockapoo puppy really needs. From energetic play sessions to the all-important naps that support healthy development, we’ll guide you through creating the perfect daily routine for your little companion.