Designer breeds – what is it?

What is a designer breed?

Designer dogs are created by crossing two (or more) purebred breeds. If we leave the glamorous name, it turns out that we are dealing with mestizos.

Breeding designer dogs began in the middle of the last century, at the same time the term “designer breed” appeared.

Breeders, creating new designer breeds, aim to get dogs that will combine the best features of their parents (sociability, kindness, health, appearance, etc.).

What are the pitfalls?

Not everything is as harmless as it seems at first glance. There are nuances that you should definitely consider for those who are thinking about buying a designer dog.

• Unpredictability.

We must not forget that designer breeds are a relatively new phenomenon. Therefore, experimental crossbreeding may not always go according to plan. The resulting puppy may not have the qualities that the breeders originally intended. And if when mating two purebred dogs you will definitely get a purebred puppy with a certain set of characteristics, then breeding designer dogs is a lottery.

If you are going to get a representative of a designer breed, you should understand that a grown up dog may differ in appearance and character from its parents. It is impossible to predict all these qualities by 100%.

• Health.

The character and exterior are not so bad. It is believed that designer dog breeds are much stronger than their parents, but this is not entirely true.

No breeder can guarantee the absolute health of a puppy and the absence of genetic diseases. Hybrids, of course, are healthier than their purebred ancestors, but this, again, is as lucky.

• Care.

As for the appearance of the dogs, it must be carefully looked after. Absolutely every designer dog needs a systematic visit to the groomer and regular home care.

• Hypoallergenicity.

If one of the parents of a designer dog was a poodle, then the puppy will inherit from him a beautiful curly coat, which almost does not shed and provokes allergies less often than others. But completely hypoallergenic dog hair does not exist in the world. Therefore, even a designer breed can cause allergies in households.

• Price.

It is impossible not to touch on the monetary aspect. Designer breeds are not inferior in cost to recognized breeds, and you need to be prepared for this.

Popular designer breeds

There are more and more designer breeds every year, but the following dogs are considered the most famous and popular:

• Cockapoo (Cocker Spaniel + Poodle). The cockapoo is distinguished by a benevolent character and a strong affection for a person. As a companion, this dog is perfect. In a family with a small child, the cockapoo will become a vigilant nanny. And if other pets live under the same roof with the dog, she will make friends with them very quickly.
• Maltipoo (Maltese + poodle). Maltipu are incredibly smart and easy to train. Most often, maltipu are tiny in size, but there are individuals larger.
• Goldendoodle (golden retriever + poodle). There are two sizes: classic and miniature. Goldendu’s health is excellent, the physique is proportional. Dogs can come in a variety of colors, but cream, peach, and red are more common.
• Labradoodle (Labrador Retriever + Poodle). Cheerful and quickly trained dog will be a wonderful friend for any person. Although Labradoodles do not complain about their health, they have one weak spot – their eyes.
• Vestipu (West Highland + Toy Poodle). The compact size of the dog allows the owner to take it with them anywhere and everywhere. The dog has a very soft coat, which almost does not shed.
• Cavapu (King Charles Spaniel + Poodle). He is distinguished by unconditional obedience and devotion. For the role of a dog for a small apartment, she will fit like no other.
• Pomchi (spitz + chihuahua). A touching-looking baby is very gentle and good-natured. Although pets are considered tame, they easily let the owner go about their business.
• Roodle (rottweiler + poodle). The dog has a thick curly coat. Dogs do not have the characteristic “doggie” smell, their coat does not shed. Rudles are intelligent and submissive.
• Morkie (Yorkshire Terrier + Maltese). Morks have a calm nature and incredible cheerfulness. These kids all the time want to play and be close to their beloved owner. Dogs live a lot – about 16 years.
•  Pagapu (pug + poodle). The bearded dog has a very developed mind, so it needs training and proper education. Otherwise, she will grow up stubborn.

Designer breeds have a huge advantage – uniqueness. Your puppy will definitely be original both in appearance and in character. You will not find a copy of it, as is the case with purebred dogs. But when choosing a designer breed, you must understand what difficulties you may encounter and be ready for them. Then everything will be fine!