6 Unusual Cockapoo Behaviours That May Require A Trip To The Vet

A cockapoo dog is a crossbreed between an American or English Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle. The appearance and size of a cockapoo can vary depending on the unique breeds of its parents. They are typically regarded as very healthy and well-tempered dogs to own as pets. 

However, as with any new pet, you should prioritize your dog’s health and well-being, ensuring annual visits to the veterinarian. Any symptoms that you identify are worth a check-in to make sure that your dog isn’t suffering. Catching early signs helps ensure your dog stays healthy and lives long. 

Sometimes, our cockapoos explain some odd behaviour. Knowing which of these behaviours should warrant a visit to the vet will help ensure that you are providing your cockapoo with the best care. 

Our cockapoos cannot vocalize when they are unwell, so we must pay close attention to odd behaviours. Knowing what to look for can help you catch those unusual actions between your visits to the vet that might warrant a call, at the very least.

Sudden Aggression

Any aggressive behaviour from a cockapoo is cause for concern. Things like growling, snapping, or shaking can be a reason to check in with a vet for any underlying issues. The veterinarians at the Garden City, NY animal hospital said medical conditions like ear infections in dogs could be excruciating when left untreated, to the point of acting aggressively in behaviour.

Playing With Their Ears

Cockapoos have soft, floppy ears and are prone to developing potential ear issues like mites, bacterial infections, or yeast infections. Their ears need to be cleaned every week, and you should also pay close attention if your dog is acting unusual with their ears, such as rolling around, itching frequently, or pawing at the ears. Any of these symptoms should have you giving your vet a quick call to rule out any ear infections.

Frequent Bathroom Visits and Thirst

If you notice that your dog is having trouble going to the bathroom or is going too often, this could be a telltale health sign that your cockapoo needs to see a vet. Sometimes they take a long time to urinate or have a problem with doing so, and these changes in behaviour need to be tracked and reported for effective diagnosis.

After a long walk or run, it is natural for your dog to lap up water. Likewise, if your dog is out in the sun for periods, drinking a lot of water would not be unnatural. However,r if you notice that your cockapoo frequently seems thirsty and is drinking the bowl dry more often, this could be a kidney issue, and you should contact your vet for a visit ASAP.

Eating Changes

Cockapoos are pretty easygoing and accept different dog food types, though a good quality food and nutrition regime will help maintain their health. Twice daily, you only need to feed a cockapoo a bit less than a full cup of food for it to be satisfactory.

Since most dogs are food-centric and love treats and food, it should be pretty easy to notice a cockapoo’s mood towards food changes. If the dog loses appetite and seems more lethargic in mood or movement, it might be time to contact your vet. Drinking frequently is more commonly displayed in senior dogs, who are more likely will experience eating changes with illness. It is also crucial to call your vet immediately if you notice diarrhoea or vomiting accompanying the change in eating habits. 

Pressing Their Head

This particular behaviour is not as easy to spot, but it could signify a severe condition within your cockapoo. Owners should monitor compulsive behaviours closely regardless of what the dog is displaying. However, when dogs press their heads against walls or other objects for no real reason, this might be known as head pressing. 

It could indicate an issue with your dog’s nervous system and be accompanied by more serious symptoms, including seizures or visual impairment. It might also be toxic poisoning, metabolic disorder, tumour, or fungal infection. Any of these symptoms should require not just a call but a fast trip to the vet to identify the source of the head pressing.

Isolation

Cockapoos are friendly, loving dogs. They tend to be social and enjoy being around other people. If you see that your pet is suddenly not present when people have arrived at the door for a greet and pet, or your cockapoo has gone to a very out-of-the-way location either within the house or outside, this is a sign of isolation. It could indicate that your furry friend is in pain or suffering. Make sure you track your pet’s visits to the place of isolation and if it lasts more than 24 hours, contact your vet. 

Since our pets do not always whine or cry in pain, it can be challenging to know when your dog needs vet assistance. However, you are around your cockapoo often and should know their routines and behaviours well, so trust yourself – anything that seems out of the ordinary should raise a red flag that it might be time to contact the vet. 

If you’re unsure, calling your vet is still a good idea. It is much safer for you and your cockapoo’s health to know that everything is okay rather than wait out a symptom only to discover that it has worsened. Let’s keep our companions living long, healthy, and happy lives with us.