What are Designer Dogs?

Recently there has been an increase in the number of hybrid - or as the media calls them, "designer" - dogs that are being bought by people as pets. A designer dog is a cross between two purebred dog breeds.

A purebred dog is a dog that has been bred over many generations to keep the breed true. These purebreds have certain standards that have to be followed. When you get a purebred dog you know exactly what type of dog you are getting. This is because they all have pretty much the same characteristics and temperament.

You might be wondering what the difference is between a mixed breed mutt and a designer dog. Usually a mutt has ancestry that may be uncertain. A designer dog has documented purebred ancestry and you will know what it is. Designer dogs can still have genetic problems; however, the percentage of hybrid dogs with genetic problems is considerably lower than that found in purebred dogs, as the gene pool is being widened. Modern genetic technology could even make possible the selection of desirable dog characteristics in the future although there is obviously heated debate around this subject for ethical reasons.

Here are a few of the most popular hybrid dogs that can be seen all over in parks and on the streets:

• A Bugg is a cross between a Pug and a Boston Terrier. They are small portable cute dogs which are perfect for the city. They don't do well in the heat but otherwise they are very hardy dogs.
• A Cockerpoo is a cross between a Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle. They dogs make ideal pets for families with children. They do have to be groomed regularly because they have a lot of hair.
• Another popular designer dog is the Cavoodle which is a cross between a Cavalier King Charles and a Poodle. They are an adorable scruffy breed of dog. They make very good companions and are also very loyal.

Hybrid or designer dogs can be seen just about anywhere today and more hybrid mixes are being added to the list every day. Dogs no matter what breed or mix of breeds are great companions. A dog will be a lifelong loyal member of your family: you have health insurance on yourself, so you should probably consider the benefits of pet insurance on the four-legged members of your family.