When you’re deciding what dog to welcome to your family, you want to make sure your pup will fit your lifestyle. While some people enjoy long hikes and bike rides and prefer an active companion, others live in a small space in a city and choose a floof that’s more of a snuggly, calm lap dog. Many pet owners also consider the full-grown size of an animal and their fur and hair if they suffer from allergies.
With this in mind, many potential new pet parents explore the wide range of cross or mixed dog breeds. By definition, this is exactly what it sounds like: a pup whose parents are not the same purebred dog. Here, we share the unique qualities about some of the most popular mixes.
Pomsky (Pomeranian and Siberian Husky Mix)
You love the regal appearance of a husky—but you prefer a smaller pup. A Pomsky has the best of both worlds! Thanks to the Pomeranian, a Pomsky is not only more petite but also brings the character of a bonded companion dog who wants to stay with their owner. This is unlike a husky, who tends to be a bit more independent. Also, be mindful of your neighbours since the Pomeranian and husky are both more “talkative” breeds.
Puggle (Pug and Beagle Mix)
For pet parents who want a dog that happily greets everyone who visits them, a puggle fits the bill. They are friendly not only to humans but to fellow dogs, and they tend to playful and cuddly as well.
The beagle influence gives the puggle an incredible sense of smell, and the mix creates a small-to-medium-sized dog that’s comfortable in a family with children and/or as a companion for the elderly. Also, they’re ideal for owners who don’t want to deal with frequent grooming since they have short hair. However, both pugs and beagles can gain weight quickly, so they’ll need regular exercise to stay healthy.
Cockapoo (Cocker Spaniel and Poodle Mix)
Sometimes referred to as the ‘teddy bear’ dog, a cockapoo is just about as cute as it gets. Furry, floofy, and generally well-natured, this hybrid dog the most traditional and longest-known mixed breed. In fact, some people have heard of them for so long they don’t even realize it’s a mix! Cockapoos were first researched and bred because many owners wanted a dog that doesn’t shed.
Cocker spaniels tend to have ear and skin problems, but the poodle mix makes these less prevalent in a cockapoo. The poodle also brings intelligence to the mix, making them easy to train. Plus, they’re easy to love.
Cavachon (Cavalier King Charles and Bichon Frisé Mix)
Looking for a sweet pup to play with the kiddos and also join you for an evening cuddle on the couch? If so, consider a Cavachon. This is a fun-loving mixed breed that is affectionate and loveable by nature.
And while all pups do need to exercise to stay healthy, a large yard is not an absolute requirement for this hybrid breed since they have a moderate energy level. The Cavachon is also low-maintenance with grooming and only has minimal shedding with their medium-length fur. Regarding health, this sweet small-to-medium-sized breed has a predisposition to orthopedic conditions and the Cavalier King Charles spaniel’s influence could make them more prone to developing heart conditions.
Chiweenie (Chihuahua and Dachshund Mix)
The best way to describe a chiweenie? A firecracker, since their spunky confidence, will definitely keep their owner on their toes. This bite-sized pup does tend to bond to one person, much like both the Chihuahua and the dachshund. They’ll still get along with all family members if socialized as a puppy, which is important for those who have children.
These dogs do well in apartment living, but it’s essential to keep a pulse on the noise level since they tend to bark frequently. Chiweenies don’t need a ton of exercise but do have energy to burn, so daily walks, playtime, and positive reinforcement when learning new skills are important for your dog’s overall health and happiness.
Morkie (Maltese and Yorkshire Terrier Mix)
This mixed breed varies in appearance and personality, as one usually takes more of the likeness of one parent over the other. Regardless of which way they go though, Morkies are undeniably cute, as well as incredibly loyal. The terrier characteristics of the Yorkshire terrier can bring hardiness and a stubborn streak, but the Maltese is a more free-spirited pup.
The two parent breeds are non-shedders and low-allergenic, so this is a great mix for those who don’t mind grooming requirements for their single coat that is more like hair than fur. In terms of health, both breeds can suffer from genetic concerns, include luxating patellas, dental issues, neurological inflammation, and allergies.
Schnoodle (Miniature Schnauzer and Miniature Poodle Mix)
Schnoodles are intelligent dogs by nature, and their personality makes them extremely loyal to their family members. They’re also a breed that’s easier to train and enjoy all sorts of exercise—including a long visit to the dog park, a game of fetch, or a casual stroll.
The combination of the miniature poodle and the miniature schnauzer means they won’t shed much but will require regular grooming.
Goldador (Golden Retriever and Labrador Retriever Mix)
This mixed dog breed combines two very similar breeds to create a Goldilocks-like pup. What do we mean? A golden retriever is fluffier, while a Labrador retriever has a shorter coat, so the goldador is somewhere in the middle. This hybrid is a mega-shedder, albeit not as much as pure goldens.
They are big and they are energetic and tend to eat anything in sight. Even so, they are a fabulous family pet, and the sky is the limit with their trainability. When it comes to health, a goldador is prone to skin allergies, orthopedic issues, and cancer, so routine vet visits are a must and pet insurance may be a good idea.
