Our Top 10 Picks For The Best Dog Food For Cockapoos

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Oh, what wonderful news… you finally got yourself that adorable new puppy that you always wanted! If you ask me, I think that a Cockapoo is an amazing choice (although we will not pick favorites among dogs because they are all beautiful!)

The first thing that you need to do, even before you bring your new pup home, is to make sure that you have enough food to feed your adorable little pup.

However, choosing a new food for your puppy can sometimes be challenging, especially when it comes to a mixed dog breed like a Cockapoo, which we all know is a crossbreed between a Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle.

But, don’t you stress because PupVine is always here to help. Brought to you by your favorite pawfect group is the top 10 picks for the best dog food for Cockapoos in 2022!

Let’s see what our favorite designer dogs love to munch on…

Best Dog Food For Cockapoos: Top 3 Picks!

1. Premium Pick: Zignature Turkey Limited Ingredient Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

2. Budget Pick: VICTOR Super Premium Dog Food

3. Best Value For The Price: Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food Small Paws For Small Breed Dogs

What Is The Best Dog Food For Cockapoos?

So, we’ve briefly seen what our top picks are; however, we are going to talk about them more later on. When choosing a new dog food, it is important that you, as a responsible dog owner, read the ingredient list and get to know the brand.

Not everything is in the price – what matters is the ingredients and how the food is made. At the end of this article, you’ll also find a buyer’s guide to help you learn what you need to look for in dog food, so you can choose the best one yourself.

But now, let’s see what we have picked as our best dog food for Cockapoos in 2022!

1. Wellness CORE Natural Grain Free Dry Dog Food + Wellness CORE Bowl Booster Meal Topper

Let’s start with a well-known brand of dog food that a lot of people love and choose all over again for their little furry friends. In this pack, you not only get a 26-pound bag of dry dog food, but also 4 ounces of Bowl Booster Skin & Coat Health dog food topper.

This is a great deal because a meal topper is a great way of providing your dog with extra nutrition and hydration. Additionally, you can use it as a treat or perhaps as a full meal. The choices are endless.

Now, let’s get back to the actual dog food and explain why we chose the Wellness Core brand. This brand offers you a grain-free dog food diet (like this one that we reviewed), and also whole grain and limited ingredient recipes.

If your dog is dealing with some food sensitivities or has allergies, limited-ingredient formulas are a great choice, but don’t worry – we also have some excellent choices coming up later on.

With this dry dog food, your Cockapoo will get a premium formula rich in protein and superfoods, which will ensure that your pup has a well-balanced diet, whole body health, and everything that he needs to thrive and be the best version possible.

2. Nulo Grain Free Small Breed Dry Dog Food With BC30 Probiotic

Our second choice of delicious Cockapoo dog food is the Nulo Freestyle brand coming to you from the south of the USA – the famous Lone Star State. Texas-born and made products offer some precious fuel for little inner-athletes.

This formula is specifically made for small breed dogs, just like Cockapoos and other Poodle mixes, with 84% of animal-based protein like lamb, turkey, or salmon. Various taste choices cater to your dog’s taste buds. There is a choice for every dog’s wish.

They promise 0% of any artificial preservatives, additives, and colors… only the best possible ingredients that will provide your pup with staying power and sources for healthy growth.

The food smells so good that even cats want to eat it. A small kibble size ensures that the food is completely safe even for the smallest dogs out there (also cats), but at the same time, it is still full of nutritious value that ensures a healthy metabolism, digestive system, and ideal body weight.

Let your pooch try it and see for yourself why this is Amazon’s highly rated choice for dog food!

3. Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food Small Paws For Small Breed Dogs

 We present you our top pick for the best value in this category — Hill’s Science Diet dry dog food. Let’s see what some of the great characteristics of this product are that made us choose it among all other great options.

First of all, this Small Paws For Small Breeds dog food has some of the best ratings on Amazon, with 4.8 stars out of 5, which perfectly shows how much dog owners and their dogs love it.

Other than that, this brand is one of the vets, food scientists, and nutritionists’ recommended products that not only help your dog receive its best nutritive value, but also they help support shelter pets.

If you are interested in their humanitarian program or would like to help as well, check out The Hill’s Food, Shelter & Love program, which has managed to help more than eleven million shelter pets.

Every dog deserves to have proper food and a home, and this is just one of the small but commendable ways in which you can also help. Lastly, the price of this product is more than appropriate.

Don’t worry about breaking the bank because this amazing quality product at a good price will only ensure that your little pup receives the best flavor, natural ingredients, and essential nutrients for his healthy development.

4. P.S. For Dogs 100% Hypoallergenic Dog Food

Next on our list is something for our sensitive Cockapoo pooches out there. P.S. Hypoallergenic Dog Food is exactly what its name suggests — a great hypoallergenic food formula that deals with allergies in a natural way.

If you are one of those owners who are so sick of expensive foods, pills, and painful shots, we definitely recommend trying this brand. You have nothing to lose, and it might help your dog enormously.

So, what are some of the benefits of this dog’s diet? It is supposed to reduce licking, biting, skin itching, redness, bumps, and also awful odor.

How does it achieve all of this? Well, it uses a limited-ingredient formula with a single protein source (lamb) that is allergen-free, gently air dried, gluten-free, and contains essential vitamins and minerals.

Although it is an expensive product, a little goes a long way, so it is worth the money. In the end, if it helps your pup feel better, that is only what matters.

P.S. It sounds good, doesn’t it? Let us know what you think, especially if it helps your Cockapoo!

RELATED: Why Do Dogs Rub Their Face? Find Out 11 Possible Reasons!

5. ORIJEN Dog Original Recipe

Orijen pet food provides your pup with a whole-prey diet, and it nourishes as nature intended. But, what exactly does that mean?

A whole-prey diet is the natural diet of wild dogs, and now, dog’s ancestors. They didn’t have the opportunities that our beloved pets have today. Those dogs usually ate what they caught – prey in its natural form, including poultry, bones, and organs.

This is exactly what this brand tries to promote – only natural and fresh ingredients (poultry or fish meal) that nourish the dog’s natural and biological needs.

No fillers, no preservatives… only completely natural animal ingredients that provide your pup with needed proteins, vitamins, and minerals.

They make sure that all their ingredients are fresh, and that the only method of preservation is refrigeration in order to ensure the best possible quality. The only negative side of this dog food is the smell, which most dog owners have reported to be really strong.

However, this is only something that you have to get used to because dogs usually love it (even cats like to steal a little bit of this food). You might not like it, but your dog will, although if you are too sensitive to the smell, maybe this will not be the best option for you.

6. Royal Canin Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food

I am sure that most of you have heard of the Royal Canin brand, even if you have not tried it yet. It is among the very well-known, high-rated, and lovable dog food brands that offer you a lot of variety.

Although we have listed adult dry dog food here, they also have options for puppy food, as well as senior dog food. So, don’t worry if your pup doesn’t fit in the adult dog life stage because there is always an appropriate option for every size and age of a Cockapoo.

What is special about this Royal Canin dry dog food? Well, first of all, it is specifically made for small dog breeds like your Cockapoo.

It helps them maintain their perfect healthy weight, and provides them with an optimal level of fatty acids and nutrients that every dog needs for healthy skin, coat, and high energy levels.

At Royal Canin, they know how our pets can be very picky about their food, which is why they pay special attention to the taste. They make sure that every bag of food has an enhanced palate that would win over even the fussiest eaters.

READ ALSO: How To Make Puppy Mush + 3 Recipe Ideas To Make It Yummier

7. VICTOR Super Premium Dog Food

Here it is… our premium budget pick. We know that all of us want the best for our furry friends; however, we are also well aware that not everyone can afford to spend a lot of money on expensive dog food. Been there, done that…

No matter what the situation is, our pups should not suffer, which is why we are presenting you with this VICTOR Hi-Pro Plus formula that is specifically made for high-energy and active dogs. It is safe to use for puppies and pregnant dogs as well.

Not sure if your dog is actually pregnant? Watch out for these 14 giveaway signs that can tell you if your dog is pregnant.

They offer a wide variety of animal protein flavors such as beef, pork, fish, or chicken meals. This is another one of the proudly-made USA products (Texas again rules!) from the highest-quality ingredients that come from domestic farms, ranches, and U.S.-based suppliers.

If you look at the ingredient list, you’ll see that this formula is filled with added supplements, vitamins, and minerals which all help support healthy digestion and normal development of little puppies into healthy dogs.

Many breeders also recommend this food as it is great for a healthy-looking coat; however, one setback that some customers have noted is the smell. It is not so much the food, but the dog’s poop, so be aware of this possibility, although this can be caused by many other things.

8. Zignature Turkey Limited Ingredient Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

It wouldn’t be fair if we didn’t mention our premium pick after bringing up the budget pick. There is no shame in wanting to provide your pup with the best of the best – after all, they are our pets that we adore.

This turkey limited ingredient formula is just one of the many different flavors. Duck, goat, lamb, venison, whitefish, trout & salmon… you name it, they have it. This will help satisfy even the pickiest and fussiest eaters out there.

With turkey as the first ingredient, your pup will receive the perfect amount of protein that is needed for normal functioning and proper digestion. They make sure not to include any possible allergen in the ingredient list that could cause harm to your pup.

So, no chicken, potatoes, dairy, soy, or high-glycemic carbohydrates – only high-quality meat and fish and low-glycemic legumes that help build strong muscles and a shiny, healthy coat.

It is definitely very expensive, but trust us… very much worth it. Due to its hypoallergenic properties, it is also suitable for sensitive doggies that suffer from many skin and coat problems.

Food is very important for the health of your dog’s coat, but to make your dog look even more adorable and healthy-looking, you’ll need to choose some of the best Cockapoo haircuts.

9. Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin And Sensitive Stomach Small Breed Dog Food

Continuing in the tone of sensitive doggies with allergies and digestion problems, we present you with yet another very well-known dog food brand — Purina Pro Plan.

It is very hard to see our pets having some health issues, so that is why we chose these food options specifically catered to them. Surely, if the food is good for sensitive dogs, it should also be good for preventing those sensitivities from happening to other dogs.

This salmon and rice formula contains a high amount of protein and live probiotics for digestive health, as well as for developing strong immunity.

Ingredients like sunflower oil (rich in omega-6 fatty acids) and fish oil (rich in omega-3 fatty acids) support the health of the Cockapoo’s wonderful skin and coat, and make sure that he is healthy, fit, and mobile his whole life.

Besides their Sensitive Skin & Sensitive Stomach line, they also have the same for large breeds, puppies, and adult dogs (7+ years). When it comes to product reviews, this brand has very good ones, which just show how good it is, especially for these sensitive pooches.

10. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Chicken & Brown Rice Dry Dog Food

Last on our list, as icing on the cake, we have Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula, which is also one of Amazon’s top picks. It is made from some of the finest natural ingredients and blended into the perfect formula of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals.

This formula contains only real protein, so there is no chicken or other poultry by-products. In addition to that, it does not contain corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors, or preservatives that could cause serious problems for your puppy.

Chicken and brown rice is one of dogs’ favorite flavors, but there are also other ones available such as beef and brown rice, fish and brown rice, and lamb and brown rice.

As you can see, brown rice is definitely a staple in their formulas because it is full of natural fibers that are great for a dog’s digestion, along with vitamins, antioxidants, and minerals… everything that your pup needs in his diet.

By feeding your pup this food, you can rest assured that he will grow up into a happy and healthy doggie with strong muscles, a great immune system, and the most beautiful, luscious coat.

Did you know that Cockapoos can come in 14 various shades and patterns? If not, read this article and brush up on your knowledge of Cockapoo colors.

Buyer’s Guide: Important Qualities

In order to be able to choose the best dog food for Cockapoos, there are a couple of things you need to look for.

First, you need to be able to choose the best food according to its nutritional content, which will benefit your little puppy. In the next couple of paragraphs, we will discuss what a Cockapoo diet must have in order for him to grow up to be a happy and healthy dog.

Next, you also need to know your dog’s personal needs. Not every Cockapoo dog is the same, nor does it have the same needs. Everything depends on his age, activity levels, and possible health issues, which greatly affect his diet. We will also discuss that in detail.

Make sure that you read the Cockapoo feeding chart beforehand, so you know how much you should be feeding your pup because that is also very important.

Nutritional Content

Proteins For Healthy Growth

Proteins (especially animal-based ones) are extremely important in your dog’s diet. We all know that even we humans depend greatly on different protein sources, but why are proteins so important?

There are two different kinds of proteins: animal-based proteins and plant-based proteins.

While both of them have their own benefits, we all know that our domestic dogs are ancestors of wolves and, generally speaking, carnivores, which means that they need some kind of animal meat in their diet.

This is actually a crucial part of your Cockapoo’s diet, and it should always be the main ingredient. Protein is made of amino acids, which are extremely important for your dog’s healthy development of muscles and body tissues, as well as new skin cells and growing fur.

A lack of protein in a dog’s diet can lead to many health issues. There are different types of animal-based protein, but the most common ones are chicken, beef, pork, fish, lamb, and other types of fish and poultry.

According to the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), puppy food should have at least 22% of protein in it, whereas adult dog food needs to have 18%.

Healthy Fats For A Healthy Coat

Cockapoo food should always have a good amount of healthy fats. Healthy fats that usually come from animal fat (such as chicken fat), as well as fish/plant oils, are great sources of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids.

These fatty acids help provide your dog with energy and nourish your dog’s skin and coat, which is very important for dogs that suffer from allergies and skin problems.

While healthy fats are extremely beneficial, there are also unhealthy fats that should not be in dog food because too much saturated fat can lead to various health issues.

Carbohydrates For Healthy Energy

Carbohydrates are essential in your Cockapoo’s diet for providing necessary energy throughout the day. Too many carbs is also not a good thing; however, a healthy amount is always necessary for a well-balanced diet.

Carbohydrates are made of simple and complex sugars, glucose, and fibers that all work together to provide your dog with optimal energy levels, and also a healthy immune system and digestive system.

Added Supplements

Added supplements, vitamins, and minerals are very important in your dog’s food. This includes various vitamins such as A, C, D, and E, along with minerals like calcium, zinc, and iron, and supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin, which all ensure that your dog stays as healthy as possible.

Cockapoo Needs

Age

The age of your dog greatly affects the type of dog food for your Cockapoo. It is important to know that puppies have different nutritional needs than adult dogs and senior dogs, so you need to choose the appropriate diet that will match their current life-stage needs.

Puppy food needs to have a higher level of protein and healthy fats (such as DHA and ARA that can be found in mother’s milk) for your dog’s healthy development, whereas adult dog food doesn’t need to have as much.

It is important to make the switch to adult dog food right on time (around 12 months of age) because if you continue feeding your dog puppy food, he will soon become overweight or even obese.

At around eight years of age, you need to switch to senior dog food, which needs to have higher fiber content, and supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin that help support aging and weak joints.

Activity Level

Many dog owners forget that their dog’s activity level also influences the type of dog food. However, this is very important for little dogs like Cockapoos, and many other dog breeds.

Some dog foods are specifically tailored for high-energy dogs, and are designed to meet high-performance standards; however, if your dog is not exactly the athletic type, this kind of food will be too much for him.

Health Issues

Usually, crossbreeds are much healthier than their parent breeds; however, no matter how much the breeders try, they are still going to have some health issues. Cockapoos are no different.

There are a couple of health issues that Cockapoos are prone to, which can also influence your dog’s nutritive needs. Some ingredients can be specifically beneficial in improving your dog’s health and, therefore, should be a huge part of your dog’s diet.

Allergies And Sensitivities

A lot of Cockapoos deal with different kinds of allergies and food sensitivities. The most common allergens are grains, chicken, wheat, dairy, soy, and corn, so this is something that your Cockapoo dog food shouldn’t contain.

On the other hand, fiber and natural prebiotics are great for a sensitive stomach, and they help the digestive system.

Eye Problems

Cockapoos are prone to different eye diseases (cataracts, PRA, glaucoma, etc.), which can affect your dog’s eyesight. In order to help maintain your dog’s perfect vision, dog food should be full of vitamins, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids.

Vitamin E is one of the best and strongest supplements that is required for your dog’s health, especially when it comes to eye conditions.

Obesity

Obesity is a big health issue that affects not only humans, but also the canine world. If your dog is a bit overweight, you should choose dog food that will help him maintain a healthy weight and is specifically designed for that.

RELATED: How Heavy Should My Dog Be? A Guide To A Fit & Healthy Pup

Joint Problems

Patellar luxation and hip and elbow dysplasia are common joint problems that affect the Cockapoo breed and cause pain and mobility issues. If you notice your dog having these issues, dog formula with glucosamine, chondroitin, essential fatty acids, calcium, and fish protein is great for pain management.

Struggling to find the perfect name for your Cocker Spaniel Poodle mix? Check out our article to find the most adorable Cockapoo name ideas.

FAQs

Is Wet Or Dry Food Better For Cockapoos?

Cockapoos are known for being very fussy and very picky eaters. A lot of dog owners have to deal with this problem while also trying to choose the best dog food that will be beneficial for them.

While some owners prefer wet food, others find dry dog food to be more convenient and easier to use. At the end of the day, it all comes down to what your little furry friend likes to eat.

Whether you choose wet or dry food for your Cockapoo, make sure that it has high-quality protein, carbs, healthy fats, and added supplements that we have mentioned above, and you should be fine. The ingredients are much more important than the type of diet.

What Food Is Good For Cockapoos?

When it comes to feeding your Cockapoo human food, you have to be careful because some foods can be toxic to them or cause digestive issues to their sensitive stomach. Here is a list of good food for your little pooch:

Carrots (both raw and cooked)

Cooked eggs

Salmon

Blueberries

Pineapple (in small amounts)

Watermelon (without seeds)

Blackberries

Green peas

Plain oatmeal

Apples

Sweet potatoe

Coconut

Mango (occasional treat)

Rice (white or brown rice)

Shrimp (plain, cooked)

What Food Should A Cockapoo Avoid

There are a lot of foods that can either cause allergies or be very toxic to your dog, meaning you should strictly avoid feeding them to your Cockapoo for his safety.

Make sure that everyone in the family is well aware of this fact, so there are no accidents that could lead to a fatal ending.

Here is a list of food that Cockapoos should avoid:

Chocolate

Macadamia nuts

Onions (including garlic, leaks, and chives)

Grapes and raisins

Lemons and limes

Nutmeg

Alcohol

Xylitol

Coffee and tea

Avocado

Pomegranate

RELATED: What To Feed A Sick Dog With No Appetite: We Are Here To Help You

Wrapping It Up

Your new puppy is safe now, you finally know what the best dog food for a Cockapoo is, and what foods are actually good and not so good. The latter you should be avoiding at all costs when it comes to your Cockapoo’s diet.

We sincerely hope that you liked our top picks, and that you managed to learn something new. Most importantly, we really do hope that your pup is going to love these dog food choices since we know how stressful it can be to find the right one for your furry companion.

The important thing to remember is that you should always take your dog’s needs into consideration when it comes to choosing the appropriate diet. Some dogs have food sensitivities, allergies, or other health issues that require appropriate nutrition.

With the right food, proper care, and lots of love, your pup should live a very long, happy, and healthy life.

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