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As you’ve likely already discovered, finding the best food for your Cockapoo can be tricky. That’s primarily because, as a cross-breed, Cockapoos come in various sizes. And when it comes to dogs and their nutritional needs, size does matter.
Not only that, Cockapoos, like any other breed, are prone to some specific health issues and allergies, which massively impact what you should and shouldn’t feed your furball.
Oh, and have we mentioned that the age of your dog also matters? Nope? Well, it does, as dogs’ nutritional needs change as they age and grow.
So yes, it’s a lot to think about. Worry not, though. MutzNutz comes to the rescue.
In the guide below, we’ll uncover all the ins and outs of finding the best dog food for Cockapoos and include some of our top picks, which you can all find in our store.
Understanding Your Cockapoo’s Nutritional Needs
Every dog breed has its own nutritional needs. Not only that, these needs evolve as your pup grows into an adult dog and eventually senior. This means that you must find the right dog food for each life stage of your Cockapoo, ensuring its needs are satisfied and your pup grows into a healthy and happy pooch.
Cockapoo Puppy (0-12 months)
Puppies need a high-quality diet that is rich in protein and calories to support their growth and development. Depending on your Cockapoo’s size, look for a food that is specifically formulated for small-breed or medium-breed puppies. These foods will have smaller kibble sizes that are easier for puppies to chew and digest.
Cockapoo Adult (1-7 years)
Adult Cockapoos can stay on a puppy diet until they are about 1 year old. After that, their dietary needs change, requiring food formulated for adult dogs. Foods for adult Cockapoos should have lower levels of protein and calories than puppy foods. You may also want to consider food that is specifically formulated for small or medium-breed dogs or dogs with weight control needs, as Cockapoos are prone to obesity.
Cockapoo Senior (7+ years)
Senior Cockapoos may need a diet specifically formulated for senior dogs. Senior dog foods typically have lower levels of protein and calories than adult dog foods, and they may also be fortified with glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health.
What to Look for from the Best Food for Your Cockapoo?
Just like any other breed, Cockapoos are predisposed to some specific health conditions. These include joint problems, allergies, and sensitivities. Cockapoos are also prone to obesity, which can further affect their health negatively.
This is why choosing the right food for your Cockapoo is so important. With the right diet in place, you’ll be able to support your pup’s well-being, significantly reducing the risk of any health problems.
Hold on. What do you mean by the right food?
That’s probably your question at this point. Well, here comes the answer. Here’s a quick breakdown of what to look for when shopping for the best dog food for your Cockapoo:
- High-Quality Protein: Protein is crucial for your Cockapoo’s growth and energy. Look for foods with real meat (chicken, beef, lamb) as the primary ingredient.
- AAFCO Standards: Ensure the food meets AAFCO standards for complete and balanced nutrition for dogs.
- Limited Fillers: Avoid foods with fillers like corn or soy, which offer little nutritional value.
- Appropriate Calorie Content: Match the calorie content to your Cockapoo’s size and activity level. Miniature and Toy Cockapoos might need weight management formulas, while Standard Cockapoos might need higher calorie options for active lifestyles.
- Digestive Support: Some Cockapoos can have sensitive stomachs. Look for prebiotics and probiotics which can aid digestion.
- Skin and Coat Health: Cockapoos can be prone to skin and ear issues. Look for foods rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which can promote healthy skin and a shiny coat.
- Joint Health: As Cockapoos age, joint health becomes important. Consider foods with glucosamine and chondroitin to support healthy joints.
- Allergies: Some Cockapoos have allergies to certain ingredients. If you suspect allergies, discuss a limited-ingredient diet with your veterinarian.
Of course, mind that all these are merely our recommendations. Every Cockapoo is different and may have unique dietary needs. Be sure to consult your pup’s diet with a vet. They will be able to help you pick the right dog food for your dog and craft a diet that best fits your Cockapoo’s needs.
How Much Should a Cockapoo Eat?
Calculating your Cockapoo’s calorie intake is extremely important. As said, Cockapoos are prone to obesity, which can translate to a higher risk of developing heart-related problems and joint issues.
Regarding the appropriate calorie intake for a Cockapoo, this primarily depends on two things – its size and age. Here’s how much, on average, you should feed your Cockapoo:
Toy Cockapoo (under 10 inches tall, under 8 pounds):
- Puppy: Around 300-400 calories per day split into 3-4 meals.
- Adult: 200-300 calories per day in 2 meals. Adjust based on activity level.
Miniature Cockapoo (under 14 inches tall, under 14 pounds):
- Puppy: Around 400-500 calories per day split into 3-4 meals.
- Adult: 300-400 calories per day in 2 meals. Adjust based on activity level.
Standard Cockapoo (over 15 inches tall, over 14 pounds):
- Puppy: Around 500-600 calories per day split into 3-4 meals.
- Adult: 400-500 calories per day in 2 meals. Adjust based on activity level.
Remember that these are only estimations and that it’s always recommended to consult a vet before calculating how much to feed your Cockapoo.
Best Dog Food for Cockapoo: Our Top Picks
Best Food for Cockapoo Puppies
#1 Return to the Wild – Grain Free Small Breed Puppy – Turkey, Duck, Sweet Potato, Dill, and Camomile
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Our Rating: 5/5
Main Protein Source: turkey and duck Key ingredients: 60% turkey and duck, 40% vegetables, seeds and supplements Type: Dry Food Best for: Cockapoo puppies Why we picked it:
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#2 Naturediet Grain-Free Chicken Puppy
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Our Rating: 5/5
Main Protein Source: chicken and lamb Key Ingredients: chicken, lamb, carrots, parsnips and potatoes Type: wet food Best for: Cockapoo puppies Why we picked it:
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Best Food for Adult Cockapoos
#1 Return to the Wild – Grain Free Adult Small Breed – Lamb, Sweet Potato and Mint
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Our Rating: 5/5
Main Protein Source: lamb Key Ingredients: 50% lamb, 50% vegetables, seeds and supplements Type: dry food Best for: Adult Cockapoos Why we picked it:
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#2 Canagan Dental Small Breed Free Run Turkey
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Our Rating: 5/5
Main Protein Source: turkey Key Ingredients: 60% turkey, 40% vegetables and botanicals Type: dry food Best for: Adult Cockapoos Why we picked it:
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Best Food for Senior Cockapoos
#1 Burns Adult & Senior Weight Control – Chicken & Oats
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Our Rating: 5/5
Main protein source: meat Key ingredients: 40% oats, 17% chicken, 18% brown rice, and minerals Type: dry food Best for: Adult & Senior Cockapoos Why we love it:
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#2 Canagan Complete Wet Food – Grain-Free Senior Fest
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Our Rating: 5/5
Main protein source: poultry Key ingredients: 40% chicken, 20% turkey, vegetables (sweet potato, carrots, peas, broccoli) Type: wet food Best for: Senior Cockapoos Why we love it:
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Final Remarks
When shopping for the best dog food for your Cockapoo, you’ll encounter multiple brands. Carefully assessing each is a must if you want to ensure your pup receives all the nutritional support it needs for healthy development and energy at every stage of its life.
The foods and brands listed in this guide are our top picks for Cockapoos. They’re all made of quality and natural products and rich in vitamins and supplements. What’s more, they are all grain-free, which is a crucial factor for any high-quality dog food.
Shop for the best dog food for Cockapoos at MutzNutz today, and provide your fluffy pooch with all the nutrients it needs to live a long, healthy and happy life!