Designer Dogs or Glorified Mutts: Puppy Love at What Price?

Designer dogs have enjoyed a surge in popularity in recent years much to the dismay of purebred dog breeders. AKC recognized breeds such as the Shih Tzu and Pekingese are steeped in rich history and pedigree.  Yet, the designer or hybrid versions of these breeds such as the Lhasapoo or Pekepoo can often fetch a price tag as high or higher than their purebred counterparts even though they lack the champion bloodlines often found in purebreds.

Despite the fact that the cross-bred Cockerpoo was in existence for many years, it wasn’t until the Labradoodle was conceived that the “designer” dog label with a price tag to match was cleverly attached to a cross-bred dog.  A cross between two purebreds, the first designer dogs often included a poodle in the mix and were labeled with names ending in “oodle” or “poo”.

In recent years, so many cross breeds have evolved that it’s hard to keep pace with all the names; Jackaranians, Buggs, and French Weenies just to name a few. Whether you are among those who adore these four-legged fur-balls or side with opponents who consider them no more than glorified mutts, there is no denying their popularity.  Designer dog breeds now outnumber AKC recognized purebreds more than 2:1.

Unlike the fashion industry, in the wide world of dogdom the term “designer” and its association with high price and quality is the subject of much debate. While these pups can fetch upwards of $2,500 or more in some instances, slapping the “designer” moniker on a cross-breed doesn't necessarily justify its high price.  Then again, it’s hard to put any price on puppy love.

A Sampling of Some Popular Designer Dogs

Golden Retriever + Poodle                  = Goldendoodle

Labrador Retriever + Poodle               = Labradoodle

Schnauzer + Poodle                           = Schnoodle

Cocker Spaniel + Poodle                     = Cockerpoo

Yorkshire Terrier + Poodle                     = Yorkiepoo

Pug +  Beagle                        = Puggle