Bringing home a new Cockapoo is one of the most exciting things you can do. But within 24 hours, most first-time owners are already Googling how to toilet train a Cockapoo at midnight while cleaning up accidents from the floor.
The good news is that Cockapoos are intelligent dogs. Their Poodle heritage makes them highly trainable when you use the right methods. Here is our proven 7-day method from The Cockapoo Complete Guide.
Why Cockapoos Are Different
Cockapoos combine the intelligence of a Poodle with the eager-to-please nature of a Cocker Spaniel. This means they pick up patterns incredibly quickly, but they are also sensitive to your tone and mood. Harsh corrections do not work. Positive reinforcement is everything.
Their small bladders in puppyhood mean they need to go out every 45 to 60 minutes during the day for the first few weeks.
Days 1 to 3: Establishing the Routine
Take your puppy outside every 45 minutes without fail. Always go to the same spot in the garden. The moment they go, celebrate loudly and give a small treat immediately. Watch for signals: sniffing the floor, circling, squatting, or suddenly stopping play.
Days 4 and 5: Extending the Intervals
Begin extending intervals to 60 to 75 minutes. Continue taking them out first thing in the morning, after every meal, after every nap, and before bed.
Days 6 and 7: Building Independence
Your puppy should now be having very few accidents. Start introducing a verbal cue like go toilet as they squat. Over time this becomes a command they respond to on demand.
The Most Common Mistakes
- Telling them off after the fact
- Using puppy pads which teach them it is acceptable to go indoors
- Being inconsistent between family members
- Not going out at night in the first two weeks
Want the full 30-day system? Get The Cockapoo Complete Guide for 7.99.