I am confused why are you down that you own a cockapoo and not a cocker? The mix of the two breeds for a cockapoo make a more well rounded dog than a cocker. They are more affectionate in my opinion than a cocker. Also as far as grooming. I groom my own cocker. Just take a good quality shaver (mine is Andis) and shave him all over. You can totally shave him, you can shave the whole body, legs, etc and make a cute "teddy bear" face with scissors. Cockapoos are actually one of the easiest dogs to groom (23 yrs as assistant to a groomer). I am sorry about the health problems. That is horrible no matter what type of dog. You don't deserve that. Just do the best you can with him. If you look up the traits of a cocker and poodle you will find a mixed dog is better than a pure bred any day. No offence but a poodle is a high strung, anxious, fairly often nippy breed. When it is mixed with a cocker it just mellows that all out. Even if it is an expensive mix like a yorkie poo, chipom, etc. That is why breeders specialize in mixed breeds. Also, I felt obligated to point out that cockapoo is actually a very expensive breed. I am one who doesn't care what type of dog I have as long as it has a wet nose. So you didn't get the cocker you wanted. You got something even more grand. A cockapoo. Sharla
