Lacasapoo

The Lacasapoo is a cross between the Cock-A-Poo and the Lhasa Apso. Because each hybrid inherits a unique combination of traits from both parents, we recommend thoroughly researching both breeds before choosing a Lacasapoo. Pay special attention to temperament, health issues, and care requirements, as your dog may express characteristics from either parent breed.

Cock-A-Poo

Cock-A-Poo

The Cockapoo is a popular designer breed created by crossing a Cocker Spaniel with a Poodle, resulting in a charming companion that varies considerably in size depending on the Poodle parent used in breeding. Toy Cockapoos typically stand under ten inches tall at the shoulder and weigh between six and twelve pounds, making them suitable for apartment living and easy portability. Miniature Cockapoos reach eleven to fourteen inches at the shoulder and weigh thirteen to eighteen pounds, representing the most common size variety. Standard or Maxi Cockapoos can stand fifteen inches or taller and weigh nineteen to twenty-five pounds or more, approaching the size of a small to medium purebred dog. Regardless of size variety, these dogs possess a sturdy, compact build with well-proportioned bodies that convey both athleticism and elegance suitable for an active companion. The Cockapoo's coat is perhaps its most distinctive and appealing feature, typically displaying a wavy to curly texture inherited primarily from the Poodle parent that contributes significantly to the breed's well-deserved reputation as a low-shedding companion suitable for allergy sufferers. Coat colors span an impressive range including cream, apricot, red, chocolate, black, white, and various parti-color combinations featuring two or more distinct colors. Some dogs display phantom markings with lighter accents on specific body areas, sable patterns with darker-tipped hairs, or the striking merle coloring. The coat texture can vary from soft and silky waves reminiscent of the Cocker Spaniel to tight curls more characteristic of the Poodle, with most individuals falling somewhere between these extremes and requiring regular grooming to maintain their attractive appearance. The head is pleasantly rounded with a moderate muzzle and large, expressive dark eyes that give the Cockapoo its endearing, soulful expression beloved by owners worldwide. The ears hang close to the head and are well-feathered with longer hair, framing the face beautifully and adding to the breed's teddy bear appearance. The body is squarely built with a level topline and good depth of chest. The legs are straight and well-boned, and the tail is typically carried happily and may be left natural or docked depending on regional preferences and breeder practices. Overall, the Cockapoo presents a picture of a well-balanced, sturdy small to medium dog with an appealing teddy bear-like appearance that has captivated countless dog lovers since the breed first emerged in the 1960s as one of the earliest designer dog combinations.

Key Characteristics

Temperament
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Energy levels in Cockapoos are moderate, requiring daily exercise in the form of walks, play sessions, and mental stimulation to remain happy, healthy, and well-behaved. They genuinely enjoy interactive games, fetch, and activities that allow them to engage directly with their owners. Despite their playful and sometimes energetic nature, they are also content to curl up beside their favorite person for quiet time and relaxation. These highly adaptable dogs do well in apartments and houses alike, provided their exercise and companionship needs are met consistently throughout their lives.
Health Considerations
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Orthopedic issues such as hip dysplasia and luxating patella can affect Cockapoos, particularly those from lines without proper health screening before breeding. Hip dysplasia involves abnormal development of the hip joint leading to arthritis and mobility problems over time, while luxating patella occurs when the kneecap slips out of its normal position. Maintaining a healthy weight through proper diet and regular exercise helps reduce stress on joints and minimize symptoms. Dental disease is another significant concern requiring regular tooth brushing and professional cleanings to prevent periodontal problems that can affect overall systemic health.
Learn More About The Cock-A-Poo

Lhasa Apso

Lhasa Apso

The Lhasa Apso is a small but surprisingly sturdy breed that stands ten to eleven inches tall at the shoulder and typically weighs between twelve and eighteen pounds, presenting a compact yet substantial frame beneath its flowing coat. Despite their relatively compact size, these dogs possess a surprisingly well-muscled and solidly built body that reflects their origins as hardy working dogs in extreme conditions. The breed standard calls for a dog that is longer than it is tall, creating a distinctive rectangular silhouette that contributes significantly to their unique appearance among small companion breeds. Their overall structure reflects their origins in the harsh Himalayan climate of Tibet, where they served for centuries as interior sentinel dogs in monasteries, temples, and noble palaces. The Lhasa Apso's most striking and recognizable feature is undoubtedly its magnificent double coat, which consists of a dense, soft undercoat covered by a long, heavy outer coat that is straight or slightly wavy but never curly or excessively silky in texture. The coat naturally parts down the middle of the back from the head to the base of the tail and drapes elegantly to the floor when left in full show condition, creating a truly stunning visual effect. Coat colors encompass an exceptionally wide spectrum including golden, honey, sandy, dark grizzle, slate, smoke, black, white, brown, and various parti-color combinations featuring two or more colors. Many dogs display characteristically darker ear tips and facial furnishings regardless of their primary body color. The head is abundantly covered with hair that falls gracefully over the eyes, complemented by a substantial beard and long whiskers that give the face its characteristic dignified and almost human-like expression. The skull is moderately narrow with a well-developed but not exaggerated stop between the forehead and muzzle. Dark brown eyes are medium-sized and set looking directly forward, conveying an alert and intelligent expression that reflects the breed's watchful nature. The pendant ears are heavily feathered with long hair and hang close to the cheeks, blending into the overall coat. The nose is black, and the muzzle is of medium length with a level bite. The tail is well-feathered and carried in a characteristic screw formation curled over the back, often with a kink at the tip, adding to the breed's distinctive and unmistakable silhouette when viewed from any angle.

Key Characteristics

Temperament
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Lhasa Apsos are notably sensitive dogs that respond poorly to harsh training methods or loud, chaotic environments. They thrive with calm, confident leadership and positive reinforcement techniques that respect their intelligence and independence. Early socialization is crucial to prevent excessive suspicion of strangers from developing into problematic behavior. While they can be good with older, respectful children, their independent nature and low tolerance for rough handling make them less suitable for households with very young children who may not understand appropriate interaction with dogs.
Health Considerations
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Orthopedic problems including hip dysplasia, luxating patella, and intervertebral disc disease can affect Lhasa Apsos throughout their lives. Intervertebral disc disease is of particular concern due to the breed's long back relative to its height, potentially causing pain and mobility issues. Dental disease requires vigilant attention as small breeds are prone to periodontal problems that can affect overall health. Regular tooth brushing and professional dental cleanings help maintain oral health. The breed's long, pendant ears benefit from regular cleaning to prevent infections, and the dense coat requires consistent grooming to prevent mats and skin problems.
Learn More About The Lhasa Apso

Important to Remember

Each hybrid dog is unique and may inherit any combination of traits from either parent breed. The information above represents the characteristics of the purebred parent breeds. Your Lacasapoo may favor one parent over the other or display a blend of both. We strongly encourage you to read the complete breed profiles for both the Cock-A-Poo and Lhasa Apso to fully understand the range of possible temperaments, health concerns, and care requirements.