Designer Dog Breeds

The term "designer dog" is one made up by the media and it's just another way of saying a cross between two purebred dogs. In other words, a mixed breed, heinz 57 or mutt. The question remains whether it's necessary to intentionally breed dogs like this when we have millions of dogs just like them sitting in shelters.

Of course there are differences between the average mutt and a "designer dog". With a mutt, there is often uncertainty surrounding the ancestry. You can never know for certain what you're getting whereas with a dog that has been deliberately crossbred you know exactly who it's parents are and what kind of dog.

There are arguments that hybrid dogs are healthier because they are cross bred. This is false. Hybrid dogs can have health problems just like any other dog. You are still crossing two purebred dogs, they are just from different breeds. That having been said, the percentage of hybrid dogs with genetic problems is much lower than purebred dogs.

It's also important to note that you cannot pick and choose which genes your dog will inherit. Those who are looking for a Golden Retriever's personality with the non-shedding/hypo allergenic factors of the poodle look to the Goldendoodle and are often disappointed when they get the poodle's personality with the Golden's fur.

While it's true that all breeds were at one time mutts, it seems wrong that many of these "designer breeds" cost more than their purebred parents. Many shelter dogs are mixed breeds that are looking for good homes at a fraction of the cost that these breeders are asking for.

If you do decide to purchase one of these breeds, make sure that you meet both parents so that you can get a better idea of the type of temperament your puppy will have.