– Mixed breeds such as Labradoodle and Cockapoo are not naturally healthier than their purebred counterparts.
Mixed breed dogs, often referred to as street dogs, are often considered healthier than purebred dogs. However, this is not always the case with popular designer dogs such as Labradoodles and Cockapoos. A study published in the journal “PLoS ONE” shows that this is also true for these specific mixed breeds.
Celebrities such as tennis star Roger Federer, actor Chris Hemsworth and actress Brie Larson have chosen these Doodle hybrid dogs, which are an intentional cross between a Poodle and various other breeds such as Labradoodles (Labrador Retriever + Standard Poodle), Cockapoos (English Cocker Spaniel + Poodle) and Cavapoos (Cavalier King Charles Spaniel + Miniature or Toy Poodle). These dogs are often praised for their friendly nature and sometimes for their anti-shedding coats.
The exact number of these dogs in Germany is unknown, as official statistics classify them as “mixed breeds” along with other mixed breeds. However, sites offering puppies list numerous Labradoodle, Cockapoo and Cavapoo puppies.
Does mixed breed mean better health?
Potential dog owners sometimes choose a mixed breed in the expectation that their pet will be less prone to disease. Mixed breeds are often considered stronger than purebred dogs because they have a larger gene pool.
A study published a decade ago in PLoS ONE found that purebred dogs are more prone to certain diseases than mixed breeds. This is likely because purebred dogs are often bred for specific traits, sometimes at the expense of overall health, allowing the accumulation of harmful genes.
Recently, a group of researchers from the Royal Veterinary College in Great Britain investigated the health of Doodle hybrid dogs. They surveyed more than 9,400 dog owners about 57 common dog health problems. The data from the mixed breeds was compared with that of purebred dogs such as Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Cocker Spaniels, Labrador Retrievers and Poodles.
Analysis of age, sex, neuter status, and owner age and sex revealed that in almost 87% of health comparisons, no significant differences were found between the hybrid dogs and their parent breeds.
Consider more than just health
The team concluded that there is no reason to believe that Doodle mixes are healthier than the breeds they come from, at least they are not sicker. Other important factors to consider when choosing a dog include whether the temperament and needs of the breed or mix fit the lifestyle and whether the puppy comes from a reliable breeder.
Although Doodle hybrid dogs are popular in Germany due to celebrities such as Roger Federer, Chris Hemsworth and Brie Larson, the exact health status of these mixed breeds in the country remains unknown due to official statistics that classify them as “mongrels”.
Interestingly, a recent study found that there are no significant differences in health between Doodle hybrid dogs and their parent breeds, challenging the common belief that mixed breeds are inherently healthier than purebred dogs.
