Home Dog Breeds 10 Cute Designer Dog Breeds That You Wish You Had

10 Cute Designer Dog Breeds That You Wish You Had

Last Updated: Sep 23, 2024

Did you know that designer dog breeds represent the majority of the dog population? Learn more about the latest trend in dog ownership.

Designer dogs are created by crossing two purebred dogs of different breeds, resulting in giving birth to viable offspring. Breeders developed them in hopes of combining the most sought-after characteristics of each breed.

Although the result of the crossbreeding of dogs is still mostly unpredictable, it is said to have the best qualities of both parents.

Purebred dogs may be beneficial since you’d know exactly what you are getting into, but most people choose designer breeds.

Why?

Getting to Know Designer Dog Breeds

Regardless of the unpredictability of designer dog breeds to achieve breed standards, they still make excellent pets.

When compared with mutts, you know the lineage of designer dogs to judge their health and temperament.

In comparison to purebreds, they are less likely to develop recessive disorders that can lead to common health problems.

So, as far as health concerns go, crossbreeding is one of the reasons why most new fur parents prefer dog mixes.

Aside from their gene diversity, designer breeds are said to be more intelligent than their purebred counterparts.

While these may be true in some cases, the results are not always healthier and smarter than purebreds.

The breeds crossed play an important role if both are highly intelligent on their own. It is also important to note that a dog’s health is unique to itself and several factors can affect its lifespan.

Designer Dog Breed vs. Mixed Breed vs. Hybrid

Aside from labeling a cross of purebred dogs as a designer breed, many definitions get thrown around.

So, let us understand the terms used to define different breeds of dogs and get our facts straight.

Designer dogs are developed by crossing two purebreds. Also called crossbreed dogs, they were purposely bred to inherit the best traits from both purebred parents.

Mixed-breed dogs have three or more different breeds in their ancestry.

Also called mongrels or mutt dogs, it is unclear what roots make them up.

Their combinations can be endless with various types of breeds in one dog’s history.

Hybrid dogs, on the other hand, are created when members of different species breed. The liger, for example, is the offspring of a male lion and a female tiger.

In conclusion, domestic dogs are of the same species, so combined breeds are not hybrids. Despite the difference in their appearance, their genes remain unchanged.

It may be accurate to call them mixed breeds since they came to be after mixing purebred dogs. Also, any dog that is not purebred is considered to be some type of mix.

Are Designer Dog Breeds Recognized by the American Kennel Club?

As a registry of purebred dog pedigrees in the United States, the American Kennel Club does not recognize designer dog breeds.

Since they are not a breed of their own, they can’t be AKC registered and don’t have national parent clubs.

However, some organizations guide the development of mixed dogs to achieve breed standards. Enthusiasts promote awareness of these adorable designer breeds as part of dog history.

Their efforts paid off as designer dogs take the spotlight with their fame on the rise.

While not part of the registry, the AKC Canine Partners welcomes crossbreed dogs to the AKC family. The American Canine Hybrid Club also acknowledges them as a wonderful mix of different breeds.

You may even enter your fluffball to the International Designer Canine Registry.

Adding a Designer Dog Breed to Your Home

Most designer dog breeds are new and rare.

They don’t come cheap because the process of mixing breeds ends up being expensive. So, their worth is now competing with those of purebred dogs.

Prices may vary widely depending on where you are looking. Aside from ending up with different amounts, it can also be difficult to hunt down reputable breeders.

To get an idea of the average cost, you may use online services. Check on websites to know the latest prices.

But, how about you consider adopting instead of shopping?

Help Rescue a Dog

Designer dog breeds are now rejoicing in their growing popularity.

The desire for designer dogs encourages breeders to meet demand, leaving most dogs without homes.

Also, people often buy dogs without understanding what goes into owning one. They couldn’t commit to the lifetime of these poor animals, and so the dogs end up being placed in shelters.

Another unfortunate consequence of these dogs is that people often get rid of them when they don’t turn out like expected. Poodle crossbreeds, for example, are supposed to be hypoallergenic, but you may or may not get a dog that doesn’t shed.

This only means that despite their fame, you may find designer breeds in shelters and rescue groups in need of fostering. Visit your local animal shelter and give them a chance.

All dogs deserve a loving family, but most often, mixed breeds are the ones in difficult situations. They could have been abandoned, abused, or neglected.

So, there’s nothing better than bringing home a rescued dog. You can bet it will love you even more for giving it a chance to be in a warm environment.

Adoption could perhaps be one of the best decisions you ever make. Not only are you providing a home to a dog in need, but you are helping to create more space for the other dogs brought into the animal shelters.

How to Select a Dog

No matter how cute a puppy is, its health and temperament should weigh more heavily than any marketing ploy breeders use.

Don’t let a designer label or a dog’s popularity make you shy away from a pet that is a good match for you and your family.

Consider your lifestyle and how much time you can spend with your pet before deciding to buy or adopt. Consult with experts to help determine what kind of dog will be an ideal fit for your environment.

When Did Designer Dog Breeds Become Popular?

It is said that the designer dog concept began with the Labradoodle. But the truth is, the first designer dog breed was the Cockapoo dating back to the 1960s, in which breeders combined the Cocker Spaniel and Poodle breeds.

The Labradoodle was developed in the 1980s by mixing the Labrador Retriever with a Poodle to create hypoallergenic guide dogs.

From then on, demand for designer breeds climbed. Aside from the Labradoodle, the Goldendoodle is one of the most popular crossbreeds which is the offspring of the Golden Retriever and the Poodle.

The combinations are without limit but we listed some of the mixes that are widely known.

Enter: The 10 Cutest Designer Dog Breeds

1. Poochon

Poodle + Bichon Frise

Also called the Bichpoo or Bichon Poo, the Poochon dog breed makes a wonderful companion for large, active families. It has a strong social nature and is up for play sessions, games, and outdoor walks.

2. Labsky

Labrador Retriever + Siberian Husky

The Labsky dog breed is a devoted family pet. It is quick to learn new commands and exceptionally active to explore the great outdoors.

3. Shih-poo

Shih Tzu + Poodle

Initially developed in North America, the Shih-poo dog breed is an adorable companion for everyone, especially the elderly. It loves to play as much as cuddling on its owner’s lap.

4. Chiweenie

Chihuahua + Dachshund

The Chiweenie dog breed makes a great watchdog as it alerts the owner to any potential dangers. It is suited to one-person homes or smaller families.

5. Schnoodle

Schnauzer + Poodle

Developed in the 1980s, the Schnoodle dog breed is quite active to keep owners entertained. It has proved itself to do well in agility and as a therapy dog.

6. Chilier

Chihuahua + Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Also known as Cavachi, the Chilier dog breed loves to bond with family members. It is often hard to train as it has a strong independent streak from the Chihuahua lineage.

7. Cavapoo

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel + Poodle

Intentionally created in the late 1990s, the Cavapoo dog breed is one curious pup who enjoys romping around the house. It is eager to please thus, easy to train.

8. Aussiepom

Australian Shepherd + Pomeranian

Although not likely to be territorial, you can expect the loyal Aussiepom dog breed to protect its humans. It makes a great companion for individuals and families.

9. Aussiedoodle

Australian Shepherd + Poodle

The Aussiedoodle dog breed is another offspring of the Australian Shepherd but combined with the Poodle.

Given how playful the purebred parents are, this pooch has lots of energy that suits well in active homes.

10. Corgidor

Corgi + Labrador Retriever

Although assumed to be a herding dog, the Corgidor dog breed proved to be an ideal addition to the family. It is gentle to kids as it showers their affection and attention.

You might have noticed that many of the dogs mentioned above are Poodle mixes. That is because today, the most popular dogs to appear are the doodle breeds.

Poodles are the most common purebred parents to create new breeds thanks to their high intelligence and low-shedding coats.

This is why many designer dog breeds are highly sought after, especially by those who worry about allergic reactions.

FAQs about Designer Dog Breeds

What are designer dog breeds?

Designer breeds combine the best features of two different breeds. They are developed to achieve specific characteristics.

By using purebreds, breeders know exactly what the parents are genetically made up of and so, they can determine what type of offspring they can create.

What is an example of a designer dog?

The Pomsky dog breed is the result of combining a Siberian Husky with a Pomeranian. It makes a good pet for apartment dwellers since it does not have a large space requirement.

What is the cutest crossbreed?

With the fun energy of a Beagle and the cuddliness of a Pug, the Puggle dog breed makes a perfect family companion.

It is sweet and friendly towards everyone, both children and other dogs.

Designer Dog Breeds Final Thoughts

If you want to bring a pup home, dogs with mixed ancestry can be a perfect addition to your family.

Undoubtedly, the crossbreeding of purebreds gave us these darling designer breeds with unique personalities, temperaments, and different backgrounds.

Before you consider bringing a designer dog home, be sure to check different breeders and shelters until you find one that meets your needs.

While you do your research, you might just find the perfect pup for you and your family.

Whether or not you choose a designer dog breed, remember that getting your own pup is a lifelong commitment.

Think of it thoroughly because this is a responsibility that should not be taken lightly.

Needless to say, all dogs deserve to be loved and cared for in a good home.