What Size Crate for a Cockapoo?

The Cockapoo has been stealing the show with its adorable face and happy personality since its introduction in the 1960s. A medium sized dog that is brimming with energy – how can you know what size crate for a Cockapoo?

We go in depth in this guide to selecting a crate for your Cockapoo puppy (and appropriate as an it grows older).

What Size Crate is Ideal for a Cockapoo?

For a Cockapoo, a 30-inch crate is an ideal size.

If your Cockapoo is still a puppy, this medium size crate will give it enough room to sleep, stretch, and even play. 

What’s convenient about getting this size is that your dog can still use it when it becomes a full adult as it will provide ample space for free movement.

No time to spare? This is the best Cockapoo sized crate for all standard Cockapoo‘s.

Why Pick a Crate for Your Cockapoo?

Dog crates or dog cages aren’t as awful as they sound. They are intended to keep your canine buddy safe. 

Crates are designed to imitate your dog’s natural burrow. Depending on the situation, it can serve different needs. For instance, a crate gives dogs a space of their own and serves as their “refuge” when they are home. It also makes traveling a lot easier for both humans and doggies. Any responsible dog owner will have one. You know that your dog is safe inside the crate and can rest without any disturbances.

A dog crate is comparable to having a crib or a playpen for a kid. It is considered a controlled environment where you can attend to other things while ensuring your pet’s safety.

Different Types of Crates

If you’ve been to a pet store and found yourself confused by all the crate options, you’re not alone! Fortunately, we’re here to help. 

When shopping for a crate, you have to consider several factors to ensure that you are getting the right one for your Cockapoo.

You should begin by asking yourself these questions to identify your ‘need’ and determine which crate meets those needs and expectations:

What do you specifically need it for?

Does it need to be portable?

Once you’ve got the basics out of the way, you can explore the several options available in the market and further narrow down which is suitable for you and your fur baby.

Soft-sided Dog Crates

As the name suggests, this kind of crate is not entirely made of solid metal. It has a lot of fabric, ranging from polyester mesh to PVC, even fleece (inside a padded mat or straps.) Pet owners favor this kind of crate because it is economical, lightweight, and easy to carry. Dogs like Cockapoos seem to like it, too.

These crates are highly recommended for car and airplane rides because of their portability. Most airlines approve of this kind of crate for cabin use. Some can be folded down, adding to your overall convenience when it comes to storage.

However, soft-sided crates are a big no-no for dogs that are chewers and scratchers. These also don’t work well for dogs who don’t like being cooped up. Cleaning can also be a real struggle. So only buy one if your pet is already potty-trained.

Due to the material, expect its durability meter to be on the lower scale.

Plastic Dog Crates

Sturdier than a soft-sided crate, this type of crate is the middle ground between the metal dog crates and the soft-sided ones. Don’t be fooled by its cheap appearance because these crates are easier to clean, and the thick plastic is durable. Airlines typically approve of plastic crates as well.

Since its design is more enclosed than a soft-sided crate, it gives more of a “lair” feel for your puppy and can be great for reactive dogs because they will only have one “window” to look out from.

Unfortunately, some pet owners would be hesitant to get this crate because it is very bulky and takes up a lot of space. Also, because of its plastic material, it tends to absorb all kinds of smells, leaving a permanent odor.

Wire Crates

This is the crate you’d have imagined when you first heard “cage.”  It is an enclosure made entirely of metal. It doesn’t include any fabric, not even cushioning for your fur baby to sleep on. You’ll have most likely spotted these kinds of crates at a vet’s or animal center.

Today, most wire crates are foldable, so you can easily take them with you. It provides adequate ventilation, so you don’t need to worry about odor being absorbed.

Since it is entirely metal, it is easy to clean. Some even come with a removable poop tray that you can slide and clean.

Although these crates are easy to clean, dirt and dog hair can eventually get stuck and pile up in the cage’s crossbars. It is also heavy to move around even if it is foldable. When exposed to rain and moisture, the metals will rust, if not sooner, then definitely later.

Decorative or Wooden Crates

As the name suggests, these crates are intended to be esthetically pleasing to match your home’s interiors. These crates are generally customized, so they fit well and even double as an extension of your furniture.

But, as expected, they are more expensive and are intended to be permanent. Dogs who love to chew would ruin this beautiful piece of woodwork.

Combo Crates

If there are 2-in-1 shampoos, there are also 2-in-1 Cockapoo size dog crates.

These crates are usually a metal-and-plastic combo designed with wheels so that you can move them more easily.

Unfortunately, because of the materials used, combo crates are extremely heavy. Additionally, the setup and installation is tedious and would require several people to complete.

What are the Different Crate Sizes?

Now that you’ve sorted through purpose, functionality, and material, it is time to consider the size aspect. Crates are typically an expensive buy, and if you get the correct size for your Cockapoo, it’s an expense that you won’t have to repeat. Size also matters because you don’t want your fur baby to be all cramped and uncomfortable.

If financials are not a problem, you can purchase different crates as your dog starts growing older and getting bigger. But a practical fur parent will buy a bigger crate so your Cockapoo can use it longer.

Here are the standard crate sizes for dogs:

• Extra small – This measures 18 inches to 22 inches and can accommodate a dog weighing up to 25 pounds. 
• Small – This is just 2 inches bigger than the extra small and stands at 24 inches. This size is also best for canines weighing about 25 pounds.
• Medium – This size is perfect for dogs that weigh between 26 to 40 pounds and measure 30 inches in height.
• Intermediate – Slightly bigger at 36 inches, this size can carry a dog that weighs between 41 to 70 pounds.
• Large – Measuring 42 inches across, this size cage is ideal for dogs that weigh between 71 to 90 pounds. This is too large even for the most Maxi Cockapoo.
• Extra-large – This crate measures 48 inches and can accommodate massive canines with a weight of 91 to 110 pounds.
• XXL – Made specifically for a dog breed weighing more than 110 pounds. Hefty puppy! It is the largest and stands at 54 inches. Anything bigger and more spacious would need to be customized.

What Size Crate is Ideal for a Cockapoo?

For a Cockapoo, a 30-inch crate is an ideal crate size.

If your Cockapoo is still a puppy, this medium size crate will give it enough room to sleep, stretch, and even play. This is also the appropriate sized crate for a Cocker Spaniel.

What’s convenient about getting this size is that your mixed breed dog can still use it when it becomes a full adult as it will provide ample space for free movement.

Most crates in this size come with a divider, so you can section half the crate for toys when your Cockapoo is still a puppy and eventually take it out when your fur bud gets bigger.

If you prefer more room, get the next size, which is 36 inches. An adult dog will still be comfortable in the 30 inch crate (unless your new puppy is a super sized Cockapoo). They are a relatively small to medium dog.

Where is the Best Place to Put the Cockapoo’s Crate?

Your pup is part of your family and, as such, deserves a dignified space within your home. Think of it like a dog bed. Somewherre close to the action – but still somewhere your Mini Cockapoo can duck away for some peace and quiet.

Once you bring your new puppy home, you’ll need to train it to sleep or sit in its crate. This is the first step of crate training. If you’re constantly relocating the crate, you’ll confuse and agitate your Cockapoo. Make this space permanent, so your dog knows where to go when he needs to avoid the stress and noise of your household. Yes, dogs need an escape too. This is where he goes to get away from the children, the loud TV, or when he needs some ‘me‘ time.

It would be a good idea to make your Cockapoo’s crate a little den-like. You can put sheets or even a blanket over the crate, leaving the front open for ventilation as well as access. Pop in his favorite toy or sleeping buddy if your dog has one.

The location of the crate should be feasible for your household, depending on your family dynamics. When the crate is all set, ready, comfy, and homey, then you can strategically put it in any of these places.

• A corner in the kitchen – The kitchen is the perfect area to set your doggie crate conveniently without compromising the space for movement of the household’s human members. The kitchen has frequent footfall, so your Cockapoo dog can still socialize and feel like it belongs in the household. At the same time, it also provides a quiet time for your dog to rest and be alone. The kitchen is busiest during food preparations and snack times, but after that, your pet can enjoy some peace while you accomplish non-cooking activities.
• A side of the living room – Your social butterfly, a.k.a. Cockapoodle, loves to be involved in all social activities. Since the living room is considered the busiest area in every home after the kitchen, placing the crate in the living room can work. Just remember to keep in where humans won’t trip and fall. The great side? From this vantage point, your pet can observe and see everything that is happening in your household and never once feels lonely. 
• On your patio or porch – If you live in an area where the weather is generally sunny and safe, you can set your dog’s crate on the patio. This can be a huge perk because it gives your Cockapoo-a furball of energy-automatic freedom. He can run around and spend all that energy outdoors and then have a comfortable space to retire once he’s tired. It is best, though, to create a second resting area for your pet indoors as it’s unwise to let your fur baby sleep outdoors by himself.
• Down the hallway – Sometimes, putting your pet in the most centralized location of your home can be a little overwhelming for your fur baby. Think of all the friends, neighbors, relatives, sales folks that ring your bell day in and out. Loud music, parties, children’s fights, and other human activities can make your dog anxious and even aggressive. So putting their crate somewhere quieter would be good for them. A hallway is a great spot as they can still see what’s happening in the living room and retreat to their haven when overwhelmed. This also creates a win-win situation when you have family or friends visiting who are not too comfortable around dogs.

You can put your Cockapoo’s crate in any space in your house. Just ensure that it works for you and your Cockapoo. It all depends on your preference and the reaction and behavior of your pet.

One thing is for sure: never put the crate in the basement, laundry room, or anywhere it would be lonely and challenging for your dog to get to. It would be wholly inconsiderate and unfair for your furbaby to be hidden and excluded from all the hustle and bustle of your home.

Crate Reminders

Your Cockapoo’s crate should serve as their haven. It is a place where they should feel safe and where they can get some rest. If you and your Cockapoo baby are trying crates for the first time, please remember the following: 

Never use a crate to punish your dog. Don’t ask your Cockapoo to go inside and, worst still, lock your dog in because of disobedience or aggression. Doing this will destroy your dog’s perception that a crate is a safe place.

Some remove their pet’s collar when in the crate because there is a possibility it might snag in the crate. This may lead to injuries and, in worse cases, strangulation if your dog attempts to free itself and no one is around to help.

Don’t put your dog’s food or water inside the crate . These essentials should be placed near or next to the crate but never inside. Your dog needs different places for activities like sleep, play, eat, and body functions.

A Cockapoo is undoubtedly a great addition to your family. Current owners will agree that this adorable furball with its equally bright personality will complete your family.

Keep your canine bud safe by having a crate appropriate for its size. Even if you are against crates, we hope you’ll follow some of our suggestions and create a space that he can call his “Cockapoo area.”

Do They Make Good Family Pets?

Cockapoos love their humans with a passion unmatched by most other breeds. People-oriented and extremely intelligent, these dogs are great companions. They are also a delight to train. They love being around people so much that not only do you have a dog but also a second shadow. They forgive completely and play endlessly.

When you have a Cockapoo-the friendliest dog of all time-you can look forward to your canine baby greeting you happily at the door, following you around eagerly, and constantly snuggling next to you on the couch or bed.

Note that their favorite place in the world is-drumroll, please-your lap.

This small furbaby, aside from being a family pet, also works well as therapy dogs. Due to their outgoing personality and petite size of only 20 pounds, they are perfect for patients – kids and adults alike – who want to have a wagging joy in their hospital beds but struggle with mobility.

If you are a little nervous and hesitant about getting a dog, being introduced to a Cockapoo will change your mind and perception!

Are Cockapoodles Easy to Train?

You just know that they are smart because they have Poodle genes. If you’ve ever met a Cockapoodle, you’ll know that they love dog puzzles. So yes, they are an intelligent breed. And they love to show off their doggy intellect.

Basic commands like sit, stay, and come are easy-peasy for this crossbreed. They love complicated routines, such as performing twenty tricks in under five minutes. It can be more difficult to stop a Coakpoo from growling or biting.

When trained, these breeds can even bust a dance move. Believe it or not!