Australian Kelpie vs Cockapoo

Herding · Medium vs Miscellaneous · Small

Quick take
  • Australian Kelpie is the larger breed at 35–50 lbs (males) vs 12–24 lbs for the Cockapoo.
  • The Cockapoo typically lives longer (13–16 years).
  • The Australian Kelpie has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Cockapoo sheds less.
  • The Australian Kelpie is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAustralian KelpieCockapoo
Group
HerdingMiscellaneous
Size
MediumSmall
Origin
AustraliaUSA
Height (male)
17–20"10–15"
Height (female)
15–18"10–15"
Weight (male)
35–50 lbs12–24 lbs
Weight (female)
30–45 lbs12–24 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–15 years13–16 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Very Low (1/5)High (4/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Low (2/5)Very High (5/5)
Coat length
shortlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoYes
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About the Australian Kelpie

The Australian Kelpie is a clever, devoted, energetic Australian sheep musterer — outback workaholic with an off-switch problem. Originally from Australia, this medium herding breed typically weighs 35–50 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as clever, devoted, energetic.

About the Cockapoo

The Cockapoo is a people-loving, intelligent, low-shed Cocker Spaniel × Poodle hybrid — smaller doodle, apartment-sized. Originally from USA, this small miscellaneous breed typically weighs 12–24 lbs and lives 13–16 years. Breeders describe them as people-loving, intelligent, easygoing.

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Australian Kelpie health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Cerebellar abiotrophy
  • Cryptorchidism

Cockapoo health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Ear infections
  • Eye disorders
  • Hip dysplasia