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Purebred dogs get a lot of fanfare, but we can't forget about mixed-breed dogs—we love them at ManyPets!
What do we mean by mixed breeds? Well, we define it as a dog breed that has two pedigree parents from different breeds.
They're getting increasingly popular these days, and for good reason—mixed-breed dogs are cute, often carry lots of benefits from different purebreds, and, generally, are healthier.
We're here to highlight some of our favorite mixed breeds and why you may want to own one.
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Benefits of mixed-breed dogs
Mixed breeds have a few benefits over their pedigree and mixed-breed cousins:
A wider genetic diversity, meaning a reduced chance of hereditary health problems
Unique appearances and characteristics
Cost and availability compared to pedigree dogs
Do note, however, that every dog is different, and many of these benefits discuss trends, not case-by-case examples.
Are mixed-breed dogs healthier?
There is some evidence to suggest mixed breed dogs are generally healthier than pedigreed dogs. But this varies on a breed-by-breed basis.
Popular mixed breed dogs
Labradoodle (Labrador Retriever + Poodle)
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You've probably seen a Labradoodle out and about: it's one of the most popular dog breeds in the world.
This mixed breed originally came from Australia in the 1980s and came from crossing a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle.
They're known for their friendly, sociable nature, and they were specifically bred to be hypoallergenic. It's a popular pick for families.
Goldendoodle (Golden Retriever + Poodle)
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Similar to the Labradoodle, the Goldendoodle is a very popular mixed-breed dog these days and has a Poodle as one of the parents (a common theme).
They combine the best of Golden Retrievers and Poodles, making them loyal and intelligent. They're notably affectionate too, and form deep, strong bonds with their owners.
This makes them suitable for therapy and service work, and they're a fine choice for lots of different types of owners.
Cockapoo (Cocker Spaniel + Poodle)
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Known for their happy-go-lucky attitude and comedian-like nature, Cockapoos are very popular dogs. Thanks to the parent breeds (a Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle), they inherit a love for social interaction and play, and their small size makes them great for living in apartments.
Families often pick a Cockapoo as their dog due to their love of playing, ability to form strong social bonds and how well they get along with other pets and people.
Puggle (Pug + Beagle)
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Who doesn't love Pugs, and we're all fond of a Beagle, aren't we? So, why not both?
The aptly named Puggle is a small, fun-loving mixed breed that suits active owners, families, and anyone who wants a surprising, affectionate dog.
They were first bred in the United States in the 1980s, and quickly gained fans due to their fun-loving attitude. Do note that they're prone to barking, so will need careful, positive training to prevent this habit.
Pomsky (Pomeranian + Siberian Husky)
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Yes, there's a Pomeranian and Husky mixed breed.
Yes, it's incredibly cute.
Yes, you can own one!
The thing that catches a would-be owner's eye first is the Pomsky's gorgeous looks, but this increasingly popular breed is more than that.
It's a high-energy dog breed that needs a lot of exercise, training and attention, so we only recommend them to experienced dog owners and active households.
With training, Pomskies can become great family dogs.
Schnoodle (Schnauzer + Poodle)
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This small, friendly mixed breed is similar to its Poodle-mix cousins. Mixing the playful loyalty of a Schnauzer with a Poodle's intelligence, it's a dog that'll keep you on your toes. The result is a small dog that's active and has a sweet temperament.
Its near-hypoallergenic coat and friendly nature are perfect if you have any allergy sufferers in your family.
Maltipoo (Maltese + Poodle)
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Are you sensing a theme here? Yes, Poodles are very popular choices for mixed-breed dogs. The Maltipoo mixes one with a Maltese—a lively, playful dog that's popular in its own right.
The result is a friendly, outgoing pup that's suitable in small spaces and as a companion dog. They're prone to separation anxiety if left alone for too long and form strong bonds, so these are only suitable if you and your family can give them the attention they deserve.
How to choose the right mixed-breed dog for you
It starts with assessing your lifestyle and needs. For example, some breeds are suited to living in a flat, while others are better in family environments.
You should think about their energy level and grooming needs too. A high-energy dog breed may suit your active lifestyle, while you may need something low-maintenance if you're pushed for time.
We always recommend meeting the parents and picking a responsible breeder when choosing a dog. It's one of the most important things you can do (along with getting good dog insurance).
Our breed fact files can help you narrow down your choices.
Keep your new mixed breed covered
So, hopefully, you now know why mixed breed dogs are so popular and have some choices to choose from.
As a new owner, it's essential that you have dog insurance to help you prepare for the unexpected.
Learn more!
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