**Pontypridd Couple Receive Unexpected Surprise as ‘Cockapoo’ Grows Into 45kg Bernedoodle**
A Welsh couple who thought they had given a home to a small cockapoo pup were left astounded when their new companion ballooned to nearly four times the expected size, revealing an entirely different canine heritage.
Laura McFarlane, aged 43, and 51-year-old Jamie Griffiths, adopted Bobby from a local rescue centre in November 2022. The pair had been told their new pet was a cockapoo—a cross between a cocker spaniel and a poodle—known for its compact stature and friendly temperament. Anticipating a maximum weight of around 12kg, the couple prepared for life with a manageable, medium-sized family dog.
However, as months went by, Bobby began to tower over other cockapoos met at regular dog social gatherings. His rapid growth prompted curiosity and concern, and the couple soon found they had the largest “cockapoo” among their peers, standing out dramatically at the group’s events.
Determined to uncover Bobby’s true lineage, Laura and Jamie arranged for a genetic analysis. The test results brought a startling revelation: Bobby had no cocker spaniel in his genetic makeup whatsoever. Instead, the DNA evidence revealed their pet was, in fact, a Bernedoodle—a crossbreed between a Bernese Mountain Dog and a poodle. This explained Bobby’s impressive physique, which now tips the scales at a substantial 45kg—equivalent to the weight of an average 13-year-old child.
The Bernese Mountain Dog, originally bred in the Swiss Alps for heavy work such as cart-pulling, is known for its imposing size and strength. Despite this revelation, Laura and Jamie say they have no regrets about adopting Bobby. “We expected him to grow to around 12 kilos, but once he had his injections we began taking him to cockapoo socials. He was always the biggest one and kept growing,” Laura shared. Reflecting on their experience, Laura added, “When we got his DNA results, we found out he’s part Bernese Mountain Dog and part poodle. So, not exactly a small pet! But honestly, we simply have more dog to love.”
Known for his lively personality, Bobby has become an integral part of the family, enjoying days out, holidays, and a varied diet. Laura, who works as a regional sales manager, described Bobby’s daily routines. “He gets fed three times a day—we try to keep his portions controlled as he has a sensitive stomach. On special occasions, he’s even treated to a small Sunday roast or a traditional breakfast. He likes being part of everything we do,” she said.
Thanks to flexible work arrangements, Bobby is rarely left alone, and frequently joins Laura and Jamie on their adventures. The couple take pride in providing Bobby with a life rich in activity, describing him as their ‘best friend.’ Laura enthused, “He’s been camping, on speedboats—he lives the life of Riley! He loves his doggy friends too.”
Having adopted both their current and previous dogs from rescue centres, the couple strongly advocate for adoption over buying from breeders. Laura urges anyone considering bringing a dog into their family to ask plenty of questions—particularly about a dog’s background. “It’s always wise to learn about where your new pet comes from, especially if you decide to adopt,” she advised. Laura continues to champion animal rescue and feels there are plenty of loving dogs awaiting homes in shelters.
Looking back, the couple feel their ‘doggy blunder’ is more of a happy accident. For Laura and Jamie, life without a dog seems unimaginable. “There are so many dogs in need of homes. We can’t imagine our family without one—Bobby is no trouble, just a lot more to cuddle!”
Their unusual journey serves as both a heart-warming lesson in adoption and a reminder to future pet owners to expect the unexpected when inviting a four-legged friend into their lives.