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Cross-breed dogs or mixed breed dogs are still gaining popularity over the world. And who can blame them?
They're adorable canine best friends! However, certain dog breeds should not be mixed.
Even though some are by accident, crossbreeds are still very popular in the United States. For instance, maybe you've heard of these popular designer dogs like the Labradoodle, Puggle, Goldendoodle, Cavachon, or the Cockapoo.
However, the practice of cross-breeding or mixed breeding tends to cause some disputes in the canine world. Some purebred breeders consider these dogs as just mutts.
But there are, however, advantages and disadvantages to cross-breeding. Before we take a look at dog breeds that should not be mixed, let's first understand what even is cross-breeding.
Wrong Dog Mixes. But First, What is Cross Breeding?
So what is cross-breeding? Simply put, crossbreeding is a procedure where two separate breeds of dogs are bred together.
For instance, let's take a look at the Puggle dog breed. Puggle is the combination of a Pug and a Beagle.
Theoretically, it's possible to create and breed two different kinds of dogs. You can also breed a purebred dog to mixed breed dogs.
As a matter of fact, you can even breed dogs with other genetically-similar species. For example, you can take wolves, coyotes, or dingoes to create a hybrid.
This is because they are interfertile, meaning they share enough DNA and biology in common to breed and produce litters.
On the other hand, members of the genus Canis cannot breed with domestic dogs. This also goes for foxes, African wild dogs, and side-striped and black-backed jackals.
Advantages of Cross Breeding
First, let's discuss the positive aspects of cross-breeding or adopting a mixed-breed dog. If you're unsure whether you want to adopt a mixed-breed dog, these factors can be a great selling point.
Unique Look
It's no secret that mixed-breed dogs give off a unique look. They are just beautiful and super adorable.
One example of a cute mixed dog breed is the Pomsky. The Pomsky is a cross between a Siberian Husky and a Pomeranian.
Combining two adorable breeds will just result in a more beautiful and unique-looking puppy.
Excellent Pets
A mixed breed dog doesn't mean they won't make a good pet. These dogs can be a great addition to the family.
With proper training and socialization, cross-breed dogs can be disciplined and it can bring out the best in any dog's temperament. Also, they can adapt to their parent's personalities.
Fewer Hereditary Health Issues in Some Cases
It's no secret that a lot of purebred dogs suffer from hereditary health problems.
But when it comes to mixed breed dogs, cautious cross-breeding can reduce the chances of passing on a certain health condition.
There's a belief that mixed breeds have hybrid vigor and are healthier than purebred dogs. But in reality, it's difficult to say if mixed-breed dogs have a higher life expectancy than purebred dogs.
Disadvantages of Cross Breeding
On the other hand, there are also some disadvantages to cross-breeding.
A lot of cross-breed breeders try to ignore this but these are important factors that you should look into when it comes to adopting a dog.
Predicting their Temperaments
Purebred dogs have been developed for various purposes and their temperaments fit them.
For instance, the Saint Bernard dog breed is full of warmth, sweetness, and affection because they work in search and rescue.
Another example would be the Rottweiler. This dog breed is usually bold and sometimes has aggressive temperaments since they have been bred to be working guard dogs.
If we combine these two breeds (St. Weiler), it is sometimes difficult to predict their exact temperaments.
Predicting their Size
Same as their temperaments, it is also sometimes difficult to determine their future adult size.
For example, it would be hard to predict the adult size of a cross between a Doberman Pinscher and a Boston Terrier.
Also, for some aspiring dog owners, size can be an issue, especially if they live in a small home or apartment with no yard space.
Delivery difficulties
The potential for high-risk deliveries has a connection to the difficulty of predicting their sizes, especially if the male is much larger than the female or the male comes from a large-headed breed.
As a result of wrong dog mixes, the female dog of a different breed can have trouble pushing the puppies out, requiring a C-section for her and her puppies to survive.
High Cost
There's currently a large interest in designer dogs. That's why when it comes to adopting a mixed breed dog, some of them are more expensive than purebred dogs.
Some mixed-breed dogs can cost about $1,000 or higher. On the other hand, purebred dogs cost between $300 to $500 depending on the popularity or the rarity of the breed.
Congenital Health Issues
Yup, cross-breeding doesn't mean they'll be free from hereditary health problems.
There is still a strong chance that they can get congenital health issues like hip dysplasia, eye diseases like cataracts, epilepsy, and kidney disease.
Wrong Dog Mixes: Dog Breeds That Should Not Be Mixed
1. Rottle (Rottweiler and Poodle Mix)
The Rottweiler and the Poodle are two of the most popular purebred dogs in the world. They are not just popular, but they are also fan favorites.
However, mixing them can be problematic not only for the pet owner but also for themselves.
The possible issue of this wrong dog mix is with their temperaments. As we've discussed earlier, it's hard to determine the temperament of a mixed-breed dog.
A long time ago, Poodles were bred to hunt. They are sensitive to stress which can trigger aggressive behavior sometimes.
Combining that with an equally aggressive guard dog can sometimes be not the best idea. If you're a first-time pet owner, we discourage you from adopting this type of mixed breed.
2. Dobieton (Doberman Pinscher and Boston Terrier Mix)
The main reason that the Doberman Pincher and the Boston Terrier mix is a bad idea is because of their sizes.
Not only it'll be difficult for us to predict their adult sizes, but the female dog can also have a hard time delivering the puppies.
Not being able to know their adult size can lead to multiple problems.
For instance, if you live in a small apartment in the city and your dog turned out to be huge, there won't be enough space for them to run around or activate their zoomies.
3. Pomsky (Pomeranian and Husky Mix)
Another one of the wrong dog mixes is the Pomsky.
The Pomsky breed is a cross between the Pomeranian and a Siberian Husky.
It has the cuteness and visual appeal of a husky with the adorable small size of a Pomeranian.
Unfortunately, because of their appealing and adorable face, people are rushing to buy this dog breed.
A lot of these owners tend to be overwhelmed and unprepared for their needs. And because of this, even designer breeds like the Pomsky ends up in shelters and rescue organizations.
People assume that since they are small, they are easier to manage than large-sized dogs or full-grown huskies. But in fact, they tend to be loud and destructive.
On the other hand, since breeding can be a challenge, Pomskies can only be bred through artificial insemination.
Also, you'll be surprised by their shedding ability of these dog breeds that should not be mixed.
Remember that adopting a dog takes time. You're not just picking some stuff out in the grocery. Do your research to know which dog breed is best suited to your lifestyle.
4. Pitsky (Pitbull and Husky Mix)
Now let's talk about Pitsky as one of the wrong dog mixes. The Pitsky is a mix between a Pitbull and a Siberian Husky.
First off, we believe that Pitbulls are not vicious. They might look like aggressive dogs, but with proper training, they are just loveable and great companions.
Huskies, on the other hand, can be a problem. Training a husky is not an easy task, especially for new dog owners.
This is why training is essential for dogs. Not just Pitbulls and Huskies, but for every dog—specifically, if a dog is smart, powerful, and intimidating.
Moreover, Pitsky is not only mischievous, you should also get ready for the constant howling and drama.
If you're not a fan of loud noises or noise in general, this dog might not be the pup for you.
These mixed dog breeds are also prone to a couple of health problems like:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Hypothyroidism
- Cataracts
- Allergies
5. Komonhund (Komondor and Dachshund Mix)
Another wrong dog mix that we should avoid is the Komonhund. The Komonhund dog breed is a mix between the Komondor and the Dachshund.
The Komondor was bred to be guardians of livestock. They have this mop-like hair for their aesthetic value.
On the other hand, Dachshunds are miniature dogs. They are short-legged and long-bodied dogs like a hotdog which is why they are also called wieners.
However, the production of these dog breeds has been inefficient. A short-legged dog with long and heavy hair is not a great combination and are dog breeds that should not be mixed.
It'll be hard for them to get some exercise done due to the weight of their coat and the size of their body. With them refusing to exercise, it can badly affect their overall health.
6. Horgi (Husky and Corgi Mix)
Just like the Pomsky, mixing a Husky and a Corgi might not be the best idea. The result can be cute but it can still inherit all of the Husky's irritating traits.
But if you're eager to adopt a Horgi, you should beware. Because their most defining trait is that they are super loud.
If you're okay with loud barking, yapping, howling, and whining at a high level, by all means, adopt your dream dog.
Others believe it's because of the corgi's herding roots, but it can also be because both the Husky and Corgi love to grab their owner's attention all the time.
7. Aussiepom (Australian Shepherd and Pomeranian Mix)
Like most of the mixed breed dogs above, the result of a cross between an Australian Shepherd and a Pomeranian is just one of the cutest dogs out there.
The results might be cute, but imagine an energetic, medium-sized working dog in a cup-sized pup.
Australian shepherds are incredibly energetic. On the other hand, Pomeranians can sometimes be super aggressive.
If you mix the Pomeranian's aggressiveness and the Australian shepherd's energy with strangers, it can result in disaster in the blink of an eye.
Furthermore, Aussiepoms are known to be loud and high-maintenance dogs. They'll bark at anything and anyone that they're unfamiliar with.
The worst part of this combination is that both breeds are prone to joint and bone health issues when they grow older.
So you might get used to the barking, but you should probably get your wallet ready for future medical bills. This is why they're on the list of dog breeds that should not be mixed.
Frequently Asked Questions About Wrong Dog Mixes
Do mixed breed dogs live longer than purebred dogs?
In recent studies, mixed breed dogs live longer than purebred dogs. However, the difference is not that big.
On average, mixed breed dogs live for 14.45 years. On the other hand, purebred dogs' average lifespan is at 14.14 years.
Can you breed a male dog back to his mother?
Technically, the short answer is yes. The two can mate and even conceive. However, it is not recommended.
It is not advised for dogs to be crossbred with their children or siblings because it can have a massive effect on their health.
Can you mix three dog breeds?
As we've discussed earlier, you can potentially cross breed any combination of dog breeds together. You can mix a purebred dog with a mixed breed dog since they are all in one species.
Wrong Dog Mixes: Dog Breeds That Should Not Be Mixed—Summary
Crossbreeding or mixed breed dogs are still gaining popularity to this day. However, it is still a subject of controversy.
A lot of purebred breeders believe that crossbreeds are impure and just a wrong experiment.
On the other hand, cross-breed breeders think that their practice adds more vigor and strength to the breeds they create.
Also, mixing dog breeds has given us a lot of adorable new dog breeds. For instance, there are Cockapoo, Shepsky, Labradoodle, and more.
However, with those cute faces, there are also a few disadvantages when it comes to cross-breeding, resulting in wrong dog mixes.
Some breeds can sometimes be incompatible and can result in different temperaments or sizes.
Hence, it's best to make further research before getting your first mixed-breed dog.
