What is an F1 Cockapoo?
An f1 Cockapoo is a first generation mix. So, f1 Cockapoo puppies have one purebred Cocker Spaniel parent and one purebred Poodle parent. These dogs are growing in popularity thanks to their lovely temperaments and often beautiful coats.
F1 Cockapoo puppies are the least predictable in terms of looks and appearance, compared to later generation mixes.
This is because mixed breeds can inherit any traits from either parent breed. And if their two parents are quite different from one another, results can be surprising!
Some may look just like their Poodle parents, others may have a lot more Cocker Spaniel in them, and others may be a very even mix of the two. So, it’s important that you’re happy with any combo if you’re considering an f1 mix.
What Does F1 Cockapoo Mean?
The term “f1” doesn’t just apply to Cockapoo mixes. In fact, you’ll likely see it when researching any designer breed puppy.
The letter “F” in the term stands for “filial hybrid”. And the number 1 refers to the fact that this is a first generation mix.
So, an f1 Cockapoo has two purebred parents. One purebred Poodle and one purebred Cocker Spaniel.
The term f1 doesn’t relate at all to the quality of the parent breeds used, or even to the health or traits of a puppy from the litter. In fact, f1 puppies are often the least predictable mixed breeds, since their two parents can offer such different characteristics.
Let’s take a look at how this might compare to other types of Cockapoo available.
Cockapoo Generations Explained
F1 isn’t the only term you’ll see Cockapoo breeders use. In fact, you’ll probably see f2, f3, and so on. You may even see f1b, or f2b. Or f1bb!
So what does all of this mean?
As we know, an f1 Cockapoo is a straightforward cross between two purebreds – first generation. An f2 is a second generation mix, so this will combine two f1 Cockapoos. F3 means third generation, and so on.
But what about when the letter “b” is introduced? Well, the “b” stands for “backcross”.
Most Cockapoo owners are hoping for a dog with the Poodle’s famously low shedding coat. So, breeders will often try to breed puppies with a increased proportion of Poodle genetics, to increase the odds of securing this trait.
An f1b puppy is most often the offspring of an f1 Cockapoo that has been backcrossed to a Poodle. So, it will be approximately 75% Poodle and only 25% Cocker Spaniel.
It’s also possible for breeders to backcross generations more than once, which can result in f1bb puppies. And, backcrossing doesn’t just happen to first generation dogs. You may also see f2b mixes, or so on.
Is an F1 Cockapoo Better Than an F2 Cockapoo?
So how does a first generation mix compare to a second generation mix?
Well, since the first generation mix combines two purebred dogs, puppies can be more varied. Some may favor one breed over the other, rather than showing as a perfect blend. You often won’t be able to tell until the puppies arrive.
Second generation Cockapoos mix two f1 dogs. So, there will be slightly less variation, especially if you breed two Cockapoos that are very similar.
This can mean that second generation Cockapoos are a lot more predictable. But, there’s always the chance that puppies can vary, especially if your first generation mixes have any recessive, hidden genes!
One generation isn’t necessarily better than another. But, a second generation mix might be better for you if you’re looking for a puppy with more predictable traits.
Difference Between an F1 and F1b Cockapoo
Don’t worry if you’re still feeling a little confused about all of these terms, or what it means for the dog you’re looking at. Let’s compare f1 Cockapoos to f1b Cockapoos to see what it means for you as an owner.
An f1 Cockapoo has one purebred Poodle parent and one purebred Cocker Spaniel parent. But, an f1b Cockapoo will have one f1 Cockapoo parent and one purebred Poodle parent.
In simple terms, an f1b Cockapoo is statistically likely have a lot more Poodle DNA than a standard f1 cross.
Many breeders hope that this will increase a puppy’s chance of having a low shedding Poodle coat. They will often choose f1 puppies that already seem to favor their Poodle parent to increase this likelihood.
A standard f1 Cockapoo can be less predictable, and may be a lot more like the Cocker Spaniel parent. This won’t be a problem for many people.
But, if you you have a massive objection to shed dog hair on your furniture, it is something you should be aware of.
Are F1 Cockapoos Hypoallergenic?
As we know, most potential owners are hoping to get a hypoallergenic, no-shedding dog when they buy a Cockapoo mix. However, in truth there is no such thing as a hypoallergenic dog.
Poodles have tight curls in their coat that catch shedding fur and make them appear like a no-shedding breed. But in reality, the proteins that trigger allergy symptoms are actually found in canine dander, saliva, and urine.
So, Poodles still have these proteins, and some studies have found that “hypoallergenic” breeds like this can trigger allergies just as much as non-hypoallergenic breeds.
The best way to see if a dog triggers your allergies is to spend time with them before committing and bringing them home.
Alternatively, stick to a very strict cleaning schedule. Hoover up daily and wash your dog’s bedding regularly. Get a non-allergic family member to groom your Cockapoo every day too – but groom them outside so that any loose dander won’t fall on your carpet!
