When Should I Desex My Cockapoo Puppy? Why Waiting 12–24 Months Is Better for Your Spoodle

If you’re wondering, “When should I desex my Cockapoo puppy?” — you’re asking one of the most important questions for your puppy’s long-term health. While early desexing (around 6 months) has traditionally been recommended, new evidence supports waiting until at least 12 months — and ideally up to 24 months — especially for active, medium-to-large breeds like Spoodles (Cockapoos).

Whether you’re looking for Cockapoo puppies in QLD or have recently welcomed one into your home, understanding the right timing for desexing can make a big difference.

Why Waiting Is Better for Your Cockapoo

Cockapoos (also known as Spoodles) are a cross between the Poodle and the Cocker Spaniel. They’re intelligent, active, and still developing physically and mentally well into their second year. Desexing too early can interrupt this development, especially in larger or Merle Spoodles that often grow bigger and take longer to mature.

Benefits of Delaying Desexing

1. Healthier Joints and Growth

Delaying desexing gives time for your puppy’s growth plates to close naturally. Research from the University of California, Davis shows that early desexing can increase the risk of joint problems, including hip dysplasia and ligament injuries — issues that can affect Cockapoos with more athletic builds or standard Poodle ancestry.

2. Hormonal Balance for Mental Maturity

Natural hormones are essential for your puppy’s brain development. Desexing too early may lead to behavioural issues like anxiety, fear-based reactivity, or overexcitability. Waiting until at least 12 months gives your Spoodle time to develop confidence and social maturity.

3. Better Coat Development in Merle Spoodles

For those with Merle Spoodles in QLD, desexing too early may also affect coat quality and texture. Hormones influence coat thickness and colour richness, which can be particularly noticeable in Merle patterns.

4. Preserves Natural Temperament and Drive

Spoodles are known for their clever, affectionate nature. Allowing your dog to fully mature before desexing helps preserve their natural drive, playfulness, and impulse control, making them better companions — especially in active households or therapy settings.

The Role of DNA Testing in Spoodle Health

One of the most important factors when choosing a Cockapoo breeder in QLD is making sure both parents are DNA tested for heritable diseases. Spoodles can inherit conditions from either the Poodle or the Cocker Spaniel side — including PRA (progressive retinal atrophy), degenerative myelopathy, and von Willebrand’s disease, among others.

By DNA testing breeding dogs and only using clear or compatible pairings, ethical breeders can eliminate the risk of puppies developing these painful or life-shortening diseases. This ensures your puppy has the healthiest possible start in life.

At Sirandi Poodles and Oodles, all our breeding dogs are fully DNA tested, and we provide a lifetime genetic health guarantee on our puppies.

When Should You Desex a Cockapoo?

• Minimum age: 12 months

• Ideal age: 18–24 months

• Ask your breeder and vet for tailored advice

Choosing the Best Spoodle Breeder in QLD

If you’re looking for Cockapoo puppies in Brisbane, Merle Spoodles in QLD, or simply want guidance on raising a healthy, well-rounded dog, choose a breeder that prioritises structure, temperament, and long-term health.

At Sirandi Poodles and Oodles, we specialise in raising exceptional Spoodle puppies in Brisbane. Our puppies are raised in a custom-built nursery with full-time care and structured puppy raising methods designed for long-term success.

In Summary:

• Waiting 12–24 months before desexing your Spoodle gives them the best start in life

• Early desexing may lead to joint, behavioural, and coat issues

• DNA testing parents is essential to prevent heritable diseases

• Choose a breeder that supports delayed desexing and ethical practices

Looking for an ethical breeder offering Cockapoo puppies in QLD or the best Spoodles breeder in QLD? Visit sirandipoodlesandoodles.com to learn more about our available litters and lifetime health guarantees.