Do Cockapoos Smell? Understanding Cockapoo Odours and Care

Cockapoos, a popular dog breed known for their friendly temperament and low-shedding fur, are often considered truly hypoallergenic.

Cockapoos do not generally smell compared to other breeds, however, like any other dog breed, they can sometimes develop odours.

This guide will help Cockapoo owners understand why a Cockapoo might smell and how to manage and reduce any unpleasant odours.

Cockapoos are a crossbreed between a Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle, combining the best traits of both breeds.

They are known for their affectionate nature and easy-to-train disposition, making them excellent family pets.

However, Cockapoo owners may occasionally notice the smell coming from their pet, which can be concerning and unpleasant.

Like all dogs, Cockapoos have a natural doggy smell, but it shouldn’t be overpowering.

Their low-shedding coats and hypoallergenic qualities mean they typically produce less dander and odour compared to other breeds.

However, certain factors can contribute to a Cockapoo smell that is more noticeable.

Several common issues can cause a smelly Cockapoo:

Ear infections: Cockapoos have floppy ears which can trap moisture and create a breeding ground for bacteria and yeast, leading to a strange smell.

Regular ear cleaning is essential to prevent signs of an ear infection such as redness or swelling and foul odours.

Dental problems: Poor dental health can result in bad breath.

Regular brushing of your dog’s teeth and providing dental chews can help maintain oral hygiene and reduce bad smells.

Anal gland issues: Cockapoos can suffer from anal gland problems, causing a fishy odour.
If your Cockapoo does smell fishy, it might need to get its glands expressed by a vet.

Skin conditions: Bacterial infections, mites, or allergies can cause skin issues that emit strange smells.

Regular grooming and the use of medicated shampoo can help keep your Cockapoo's fur and skin healthy.

Diet and digestion: Poor diet or digestive issues can lead to foul smells. Ensure your Cockapoo is on a high-quality dog food that suits its nutritional needs.

For a detailed guide on how to groom your Cockapoo effectively, visit our Cockapoo Haircuts Guide (with pictures).

Regular grooming is crucial in managing and reducing odours in Cockapoos. Here are some tips:

1. Bathing: How often should you bathe a Cockapoo? Generally, bathing your Cockapoo once a month is sufficient. However, if your dog tends to get dirty often or develops a bad smell even after a bath, more frequent bathing may be necessary. Always use a gentle, dog-specific shampoo to avoid irritating your pet's skin.

2. Brushing: Regular brushing helps remove dirt and dead hair, reducing the chances of matting and odour build-up. Aim to brush your Cockapoo's fur at least two to three times a week.

3. Ear cleaning: Check and clean your dog's ears weekly to prevent infections and odour. Use a vet-recommended ear cleaner and avoid inserting anything deep into the ear canal.

4. Dental care: Brush your dog’s teeth several times a week and provide dental chews to help prevent gum disease and bad breath.

5. Anal glands: If your Cockapoo has recurring issues with its anal glands, consult your vet about regular expression to prevent odours.

Proper grooming not only reduces odours but also contributes significantly to the overall health and longevity of your Cockapoo.

For more grooming tips, visit our 'How to Bathe a Dog' and 'Dog Shampoos for Itchy Skin' articles.

If you want to understand how big your cockapoo will get then our guide to cockapoo sizes will definitely help.

Cockapoos make excellent indoor pets due to their adaptable nature and friendly disposition.
They tend to be extremely good with other pets and children, making them ideal for family homes.

However, Cockapoos require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom, which can lead to destructive behaviour and odours.

Cockapoos are known for being easy to train, which helps in managing indoor behaviour.

Ensure they get at least 30-60 minutes of exercise daily and provide plenty of dog toys to keep them entertained.

For more information on Cockapoos and their care, check out our Cockapoo Breed Guide and for a comparison of breeds our Cockapoos vs Cavapoos post may be helpful.

Understanding and managing your Cockapoo's odour involves regular grooming, proper dental care and addressing any health issues promptly.

With the right care, your Cockapoo should remain a pleasant-smelling, beloved member of your family.

It's important to remember that both an old Cockapoo and a Cockapoo puppy can have specific needs that may cause them to smell.

Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial as dogs can develop various conditions that might cause odours.

Even a dog like a Cockapoo, which shouldn’t smell much, might develop a stinky odour if not properly cared for.

For a better experience, pet parents should be vigilant about their pet’s grooming routine, especially since Cockapoos tend to have a lot of hair that needs regular maintenance.

Sometimes, a Cockapoo still smells after grooming, indicating the need to get his glands expressed or check for issues like ear mites or infections.

For those who own two dogs, it’s beneficial to have a consistent grooming schedule for both pets to keep smells under control.

For further reading on maintaining your pet's health and happiness, explore our articles on 'Best Natural Dog Treats' and 'How to Groom a Cocker Spaniel'.

Why does my Cockapoo smell even after a bath?

Persistent odours after a bath can indicate underlying issues such as ear infections, dental problems, or anal gland issues. Ensure thorough grooming and consult your vet if the problem persists.

How can I keep my Cockapoo's bedding smelling fresh?

Regularly wash your dog’s bedding with a pet-safe detergent and ensure it is thoroughly dried to prevent bacterial growth and odours.

What should I do if my Cockapoo has a fishy smell?

A fishy smell often indicates anal gland problems. Have your vet express your Cockapoo’s glands to alleviate the odour.

Are Cockapoos truly hypoallergenic?

While Cockapoos are considered low-shedding and truly hypoallergenic, no dog breed is completely hypoallergenic. Regular grooming can help reduce allergens.