Pedigreed pooch or custom-designed mongrel:
Which designer dog fits you like a glove?

In terms of fashion, “designer” is often referred to a commodity that’s custom-fit, impeccably assembled, follows a trend and inevitably adds up to heavy price tag. The new “designer dogs” are no different.

These days, hybrids are no longer viewed mutts in the fashion world, but a cute,  controversial and lucrative fad.

Hybrid dogs, the first generation offspring of two purebreds, became a growing trend a little over a decade ago. Though a controversial issue among die-hard pure bred breeders and animal advocates, designer dogs were created by breeders who custom-design a useful and more convenient dog to suit the owner’s needs and preferences.  

If you love the Labrador, but hate the shedding, you might opt for a Labradoodle, which is part Labrador and part Poodle. The mix results in a hypoallergenic coat.

While it sounds like a match made in dog heaven, the demand for crossbreeds can result in irresponsible breeding, puppy mills and can contribute to overpopulation of homeless pets, or even worse, animals with health defects. 

The American Canine Hybrid Club lists recognize hybrid crossbreeds, and there are often rescues for these hybrids, where you can purchase a dog that needs a home with a nominal rescue fee.

The designer dog can be a genius way to customize your pooch with the desired traits, size, temperament and look that meets your needs, but be prepared for the designer price tag which is often comparable to that of a pure bred. Like with any new dog, it’s essential to research the crossbreed and find a responsible breeder before you commit, otherwise you may end up with a designer pooch full of problems and supporting unethical breeding.

Show off your designer dog's unique coat with our all natural grooming products!

 Now that you know a bit more about their origins of the designer dog and what to be wary of, decide which marvelous “mutt” suits you best.

1. The Pomapoo - Pomeranian and Poodle

        Straight, curly or wavy hair, the designer Pomapoo is relatively small in size, weighing 10-15 pounds. Depending on its coat, the Pomapoo may need frequent brushing and grooming.
        Highly-playful dogs, Pomapoos are not only easy on the eyes, they’re easy to housebreak, very social, energetic and capable of being entertained both indoors and outdoors. 
        If you don’t like a barker, the Pomapoo may not be for you. Their temperament is a good mix between the Poodle's more passive nature and a Pomeranian's somewhat aggressive personality. They are known to bark incessantly, which makes them great watchdogs. 
        The barking can also be curbed with sufficient training as a puppy.

Well-suited for people with:
    -  Small children or senior citizens
    -  Other household pets
    -  Small apartment
    -  Time for attention and play
    -  Time for frequent grooming and brushing 
            Average Cost: $200 - $1500

2. The Puggle - Pug and Beagle  
        Puggle rhymes with snuggle, which is what you’ll want to do with this lovable lap dog. Short legs, curled tail, smooth coat and a deeply wrinkled forehead give the Puggle an adorable appearance. Originating back in the 1980’s, the Puggle is the ultimate designer dog and currently the most popular crossbreed, notorious for being sweet-tempered, very social, energetic, intelligent and playful.  
        Relatively small in size, the Puggle grows to be between fifteen and thirty pounds and does well with 30-40 minute daily walks to release excess energy. The Beagle traits make Puggles very curious with a keen sense of smell. They have also been known to howl on occasion. 
        While they are relatively easy to train, Puggles can be difficult to potty train.

3. The Bug - Boston Terrier and Pug
        Pugs are gentile, sweet-natured, playful and lovable. The endearing Bug has the best of both parent breeds, known for their good temperament, playful nature, energy and intelligence. If bred by responsible breeders, Bugs can be a lovely lap dog for families with small children. However, if bred by an irresponsible breeder, a Bug may exhibit health problems associated with both breeds such as corneal infections and respiratory issues. 

4. The Jack-A-Poo/Jack-A-Doodle - Jack Russell Terrier and Poodle
        Ask any Jack Russell Terrier owner and they’ll most likely equate having a Jack Russell Terrier to having a extremely energetic, smart and often mischievous small child. They grow to between 15-25 pounds.

5. The Labradoodle - Labrador and Poodle
        When it comes to the perfect family pet, the Labradoodle takes the cake. Friendly, sociable, non-aggressive and exceptionally intuitive, this crossbreed offers all of the characteristics of the perfect companion.

6. The Shorkie - Yorkshire Terrier and Shih Tzu 
        Despite the goofy name, the Shorkie is social, sweet-tempered and playful. Originating in the United States, the Shorkie crossbreed has been around for roughly twenty years. They interact well with children, but play should be supervised. Children can play rough and unknowingly hurt the dog during play.

7. The Mastador - Labrador Retriever and Mastiff 

        Though the name sounds like a type of dinosaur, the Mastador is a relatively gentle giant. Weighing in well over 100 pounds, Mastadors are best suited for families with older children, due to their size.