Designer Dogs: The Pros And Cons

Designer dogs like Cavoodles and Labradoodles continue to grow in popularity here. In fact, they’re some of the most Googled dog breeds in Australia. And why wouldn’t they be? Hybrid breeding often combines the best of two breeds into one adorable package.

A Cavoodle combines the long beautiful ears of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel with the curly (and hypoallergenic) coat of the Poodle. Whereas Labradoodles have the assistance dog abilities of a Labrador with the hypoallergenic coat of the Poodle.

These superdogs sound like the dream. So are there any cons to owning one? We take a look at the pros and cons of designer dogs.

What are designer dogs?

Designer dogs – also called ‘hybrid breeds’ or ‘designer crossbreeds’ – are a cross between two purebred dogs to make a new breed.

Purebred dogs are technically also ‘designed’ through breeding techniques that procreate desired traits and breed out less desirable traits. But unlike purebred dogs where both parents are from the same breed, designer dogs combine two completely different breeds.

Usually, designer dogs are crossbred with Poodles. The reason? Poodles have oodles of hypoallergenic fur – which, of course, us humans love. Here are some more hybrid dogs and where they come from:

• Cavoodle. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel x Poodle
• Cockapoo. Cocker Spaniel x Poodle
• Goldendoodle. Golden Retriever x Poodle
• Labradoodle. Labrador Retriever x Poodle
• Puggle. Pug x Beagle 
• Maltipoo. Maltese x Poodle
• Mal-shi. Maltese x Shih Tzu
• Papshund. Dachshund x Papillon
• Schnoodle. Schnauzer x Poodle
• Yorkipoo. Yorkshire Terrier x Poodle 
• Pomchi. Pomeranian x Chihuahua
• Cheeks. Chihuahua x Pekingese 

Just look at these cuties in action:

Pros

As mentioned, the biggest benefits of a designer dog is that you can combine the most desired dogs from disparate breeds and put them together. The cross with a Poodle also means designer dogs have fur that won’t cause allergies in humans – helpful when almost 20% of Aussies have at least one allergic condition.

Another benefit is that hybrid dogs have a more diverse gene pool than purebred dogs. Purebred dog breeds are bred from a limited gene pool to keep the family traits carrying through to new litters. This results in genetic problems like hip dysplasia, arthritis and IVDD in Dachshunds and other dogs.

Any owner who’s had to shell out a wad of cash on vet bills for their purebred’s genetic problem will know what we’re talking about.

Cons of designer dogs

Unfortunately, designer dogs come with some cons too.

Due to the demand for these breeds, unscrupulous breeders open puppy mills to breed as many dogs are possible. Puppy mills are a problem in Australia due to the often inhumane way dogs are treated in these facilities.

With the focus on creating litters to sell as fast as possible, mum dogs aren’t given appropriate rest periods in between pregnancies, which can have devastating effects on their physical and mental health.

They’re often locked in small cages without proper food, socialisation or exercise. They’re effectively prisoners. You might be dying for a cute, curly haired designer pup – but consider the potential moral costs. Of course there are plenty of ethical breeders out there; just make sure you find one.

Puppy mills are fuelled by demand, and as long as buyers continue to purchase from them, they will continue to exist. Read our guide on finding ethical dog breeders to help prevent this form of animal abuse.

Theft is another con of owner a designer dog. Due to being so expensive, designer dogs are at a higher risk of being stolen and sold on the black market. Read about stolen dogs and preventative steps you can take.

The best insurance for pooch – designer dog or not!

Whether you own a Pomchi or Pomeranian, Puggle or mixed breed doggo from the shelter – all pups deserve the best medical care in case of accident or illness.

Pet insurance helps pay for medical health costs for pets, protecting your pocket and bringing you peace of mind. Depending on the plan you choose, cover includes vet visits for non-routine tests and treatments, surgery, medication, dental, hospitalisation and more.

And did we mention – with us you get either one or more months of FREE dog insurance or cat insurance depending on the age of your pet? No strings attached and no lock-in contracts, just the freedom to safeguard your furkid without worry or hassle.