What is the Difference Between a Toy and Miniature Cockapoo?
- Administrator
- Jul 18
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 2
If you're considering bringing a Cockapoo into your home, you’ve likely come across different size labels—Toy and Miniature being the most common. While both are adorable and share the similar lovable Cockapoo traits, there are a few key differences between them that can affect your choice depending on your lifestyle and preferences.
🐾 What is a Cockapoo?
A Cockapoo is a crossbreed between a Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle. The “size” of the Cockapoo depends largely on the size of the Poodle parent, since Poodles come in different varieties: Toy, Miniature, and Standard.
The Difference Between a Toy and Miniature Cockapoo
🧸 Toy Cockapoo: The Tiny Companion
Size & Weight
Height: Around 10 inches or under at the shoulder
Weight: 6 to 12 pounds
Parentage
A Toy Cockapoo is typically bred from a Toy Poodle and a Cocker Spaniel.
Personality & Needs
Small and affectionate, Toy Cockapoos are great for apartment living or those who desire a tiny lapdog, although they can tend to be more yappy and prone to health problems due to their extra small size.
Because of their small size, they can be more delicate and may need gentle handling—especially around children. A toy cockapoo can tend to be on the yappy side, as well as be prone to health problems.
Exercise Needs
Still energetic, but a couple of short walks and play sessions a day will usually suffice.
A Snowsong Mini Cockapoo puppy
🐕 Miniature Cockapoo: The Mid-Size Favorite
Size & Weight
Height: About 11 to 14 inches at the shoulder
Weight: 15 to 22 pounds
Parentage
A Miniature Cockapoo is bred from a Miniature Poodle and a Cocker Spaniel.
Personality & Needs
Slightly sturdier than the Toy variety, Miniature Cockapoos are playful, affectionate, and well-suited for families.
They tend to have a little more energy and stamina, making them a good match for active households. We have found that our Mini Cockapoos have been happy, heathy dogs which are well balanced for a companion and house dog. This is what brought us into the Cockapoo world. We adopted Marley, a miniature Cockapoo and brought her into a world of Siberian Huskies. With her in our home we discovered that Miniature Cockapoos are great family dogs!
Exercise Needs
A bit more than their Toy cousins: think daily walks, playtime, and mental stimulation.
🎨 Similarities Across Both Sizes
Temperament: Friendly, intelligent, and eager to please.
Low-shedding coats: Great for people with mild allergies.
Trainability: Highly trainable and food-motivated.
Lifespan: 13–17 years on average
Grooming: Regular brushing and professional grooming every few months
🎨 Similarities Across Both Sizes
Volume: Toy Cockapoos tend to be more timid and more barky than Miniature Cockapoos
Health: Miniature Cockapoos are healthier as Toy Cockapoos tend to struggle with health issues due to their extra small size.
🐾 Which Size is Right for You?
Choose a Toy Cockapoo if you’re looking for a small companion who can adapt to compact spaces and you’re prepared for a little extra gentleness.
Opt for a Miniature Cockapoo if you want a slightly more robust dog that can keep up with kids or more active daily routines.
In the end, both Toy and Miniature Cockapoos offer the heart-melting charm, intelligence, and loyalty that have made this hybred so beloved. It just comes down to what size fits best with your home, energy level, and lifestyle. At Snowsong, we do not breed Toy Cockapoos, we have chosen to focus on Miniature Cockapoos for the most happy, healthy little dog experience. We have fallen in love with our Miniature Cockapoos ... and you will to!
