Hybrids or “designer dogs” have become a hot trend in dogs. Many people choose a mix hoping to get the both of best dog breeds, usually low or hypo-allergenic, and because, well, they are cute. So what are the most popular hybrids?
#1 – Labradoodle (Labrador x Poodle)
This is the breed that really started the “doodle” crazy. A bunch were at a shelter in California and they had a line down the block waiting to adopt. That’s when people started to breed them seriously. The original, and still the most popular.
#2 – Goldendoodle (Golden retriever x Poodle)
Once the labradoodle caught one, this was the natural progression. People like them because they tend to be low-shed and allergenic, as well as sweet and trainable.
#3 – Cockapoo (Cocker Spaniel x Miniature Poodle)
They may have been around prior to the labradoodle, but before they made being a “mix” cool, the cockapoo was rarely seen. Now, they are one of the most seen breeds at daycares and vets.
#4 – Maltipoo (Maltese x Miniature Poodle)
Another “doodle” (sensing a trend?) the Maltipoo is just plain cute. A tiny fluff ball, they tend to have a strong personality, making them a little bit more a challenge than some of the other hybrids.
#5 – Puggle (Pug x Beagle)
The puggle has a reputation for having one of those “mugs” that is adorable and a cute curly tail, making him lovable from head to toe. Just remember, he does have beagle in him so he will follow that nose!
#6 – Yorkipoo (Yorkshire Terrier x Miniature Poodle)
The yorkipoo is rapidly gaining popularity because of its cute appearance and cuddly personality. It usually has the low to no shed properties of the poodle, but due to the hair-like fur of the yorkie, it mats really easily.
#7 – Shipoo (Shih-tzu x Poodle)
Another cute, fluffy dog, the shipoo was mainly bred for people that want a shih-tzu but don’t want the hair. The poodle infusion does help with shed, HOWEVER they still mat so grooming or a puppy cut is required.
#8 – Schnoodle (Schnauzer x Poodle)
Coming in miniature and giant/standard sizes, the schoodle usually ends up with a wiry coat, making them even easier to take care of than the lab- or goldendoodle, albeit not as soft. They are an intelligent dog, but can have some of that schnauzer independence making them more challenging to train.
#9 – Morkie (Maltese x Yorkshire Terrier)
The morkie is gaining popularity as people come in contact with their spunky, people loving disposition. Since this dog is the result of two high-groom dogs, be ready for a lot of brushing or to keep it in a puppy cut.
#10 – Aussiedoodle (Australian Shepherd x Poodle)
This breed is quickly rising in the ranks of popularity. Be warned though, you are mixing too high energy, intelligent dogs, so you better have a job and training ready for him or he will be trouble.
