A sturdy, low-set working terrier developed in Australia for pest control and companionship. Aussie Terriers are spirited, affectionate, and surprisingly courageous for their small size.
One of the oldest designer breeds, a Cocker Spaniel-Poodle cross known for its happy, outgoing personality and teddy-bear looks. Cockapoos are low-shedding, easy to train, and get along with everyone.
Quick Answer
Choose Australian Terrier if you want more apartment-friendly. Choose Cockapoo if you want better with kids and less shedding.
Australian Terrier
Attribute
Cockapoo
Size
Weight
Height
Lifespan
Trainability
Energy
Good with Kids
Shedding
Grooming
Apartment
Health
Price
Cockapoo is better suited for families with children.
Australian Terrier
Cockapoo
Good with Kids
Good with Dogs
Strangers
The Cockapoo has a slight edge with children (5/5 vs 4/5). Both breeds can do well in families, but the Cockapoo's happy temperament gives it a small advantage around young kids.
Australian Terrier is less expensive to own annually.
Australian Terrier
Cockapoo
Both breeds cost a similar amount upfront — $1,000–$2,000 for a Australian Terrier versus $1,000–$3,000 for a Cockapoo. Where the real cost differences emerge is in ongoing expenses.
Both breeds have similar temperaments.
Australian Terrier
Cockapoo
Playfulness
Barking Level
Energy
If you've spent time around both breeds, the personality gap is unmistakable. A Australian Terrier greets the world with a spirited attitude, whereas a Cockapoo leans more toward a happy approach.
Australian Terrier sheds more; Cockapoo is easier to maintain.
Australian Terrier
Cockapoo
Shedding
Grooming Needs
The Australian Terrier sheds a bit more (2/5) than the Cockapoo (1/5). It's not a night-and-day difference, but if you prefer a cleaner home, the Cockapoo has a slight edge.
Both breeds have similar health profiles.
Australian Terrier
Cockapoo
Lifespan (years)
Health Robustness
The lifespan difference is significant. Cockapoos live 13–17 years on average, while Australian Terriers live 11–15 years.
Both breeds have similar exercise requirements.
Australian Terrier
Cockapoo
Energy Level
Exercise Needs
Apartment Friendly
Exercise won't be the deciding factor here — both the Australian Terrier and Cockapoo need moderate daily activity (3/5). Neither breed will overwhelm you with exercise demands.
Both breeds are similar in size.
Australian Terrier
Cockapoo
Weight (kg)
Height (cm)
These breeds are near-identical in stature. The Australian Terrier weighs 6–7 kg (13–15 lbs) and the Cockapoo weighs 5–11 kg (11–24 lbs) — close enough that size alone won't drive your decision.
Both breeds are equally trainable.
Australian Terrier
Cockapoo
Trainability
Intelligence
Both breeds score 4/5 for trainability — you'll have a similar experience training either one. Both are cooperative, eager learners.
Neither breed is objectively "better" — it depends on your priorities. Choose the Australian Terrier if you value more apartment-friendly (5/5).
Question 1 of 3
Do you have children at home?
Choose Australian Terrier if...
Choose Cockapoo if...
Looking for more options?
The Cockapoo is generally better with children, scoring 5/5 compared to the Australian Terrier's 4/5. The Cockapoo is one of our top-recommended breeds for families.
The Australian Terrier is equally easy to train with a score of 4/5, matching the Cockapoo. Consistent, positive reinforcement methods work well.
A Australian Terrier puppy costs $1,000–$2,000 while a Cockapoo costs $1,000–$3,000. Annual maintenance runs about $850 for the Australian Terrier and $1,220 for the Cockapoo. The Cockapoo costs more to maintain annually.
The Australian Terrier lives 11–15 years on average, while the Cockapoo lives 13–17 years. The Cockapoo tends to live longer. Proper diet, exercise, and regular vet care help maximize lifespan for either breed.
The Australian Terrier is better suited for apartments (5/5) compared to the Cockapoo (4/5). The Australian Terrier is one of our top picks for apartment living.