The Rising Trend of Designer Dogs: Exploring the Appeal and Popularity

If you’re looking around and starting to believe that there are more dog breeds today than you remember in the past, you’re probably right. The rise of the designer dog has taken the world by storm as of late, and new dog breeds are becoming more commonplace than ever before. But what are designer dogs, and why are they suddenly so popular? Let’s look at the trends, pros and cons, and tips to follow if you decide to get in on the fad.

What Are Designer Dogs?

In a nutshell, designer dogs are bred from parents who were both purebred dogs of different breeds. An example would be a purebred poodle and a purebred golden retriever. As opposed to a mixed breed — a non-designer dog that was either unintentionally or accidentally bred — real designer dogs are strategically chosen so that the resulting pup would have ideal characteristics between the two parents while becoming a new creature. 

While the list is growing every year, current examples of designer dogs include:

• Labradoodle: One of the most popular designer dogs is a combination of a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle, and the result is a social and adaptable puppy that may shed significantly less than its Labrador parent and is easy to train.
• Puggle: Combination of a Pug and Beagle that’s cute and fun and doesn't have many of the respiratory issues common to purebred pugs.
• Yorkipoo: A mix of a Yorkshire Terrier and a Miniature Poodle results in a cute little dog with a big personality that can fit in a purse or bag.

In addition to the genetic characteristics, many designer dogs are often adorable, which adds to their allure. Also, while the outcome isn’t 100% sure, the pup produced by this method is more predictable than mixing dogs without a desired result. 

There are some cons to consider, and one of them is the price. Many designer dogs can cost well over one thousand dollars. Unfortunately, due to the popularity and money involved, there’s also an issue of unscrupulous breeders. These breeders will breed the dogs quickly and without concern for the well-being of the animals, so it’s essential to check the background of your breeder before you buy.

Why Designer Dogs Are So Popular

Because many current and potential pet owners are excited about the idea of owning one, designer dogs are skyrocketing in popularity. There are many reasons, and one of them is the same as why anything becomes a trend: people want a unique dog that intrigues others at the dog park. 

People also want to be like the stars they follow on social media. In recent years, many influencers and celebrities have been showing off their designer dogs, and many of them have a strong following. In addition to the fact that the dogs are adorable, people often choose designer dogs to fit a certain lifestyle. For example, someone who loves labradors but is allergic to their high degree of shedding may appreciate the lower tendency of shedding of a labradoodle instead.

Many breeders also feel like designer dogs are healthier. The hope is that combining the genetic diversity of two different breeds reduces the likelihood of health issues. 

Breeding And Raising A Designer Dog Responsibly

If you’re interested in breeding a designer dog or just want to be sure that the dog you get is well cared for, then there are a couple of things to remember. Among them is ensuring the health of each dog before breeding. Regardless of the breed, they should be brought to the vet to ensure they're in good shape and free of diseases or disorders. If you’re thinking of breeding your own designer dog, verify that both genetics complement each other. If you’re unsure, speak to an expert. 

You’ll also want to have your dog groomed for their health and for the upkeep of their appearance. Make brushing and bathtime an enjoyable experience by staying calm and upbeat. If you would rather take your pet to the professionals, take the time to try to socialize your dog with the groomers and help them to be at ease. Rewarding your dog for remaining calm is a must.

Finally, you'll want to create a safe environment for your dog once you get them home. It is important to create a safe environment indoors and out. Consider building a fence around your backyard if your home does not previously have one. Make sure that you sweep the area for any dangerous materials like nails, screws, wood splinters, or metal scraps. Check any plants you may have or move any toxic materials like bug poisons out of reach. Pay special attention to the garage, shed, and other potentially dangerous places. Chemicals like antifreeze can leak from the car and be harmful if your dog ingests it, so be cautious of liquids on the ground. In garages, ensure that they are well-ventilated and that there aren’t any chemicals from your car that they could get into. If you have a shed in the yard, keep the door closed securely and protect your dog from any outdoor tools. 

Conclusion

The rising trend of designer dogs is unmistakable, and there’s an allure to going that route when it comes to buying a pet, but caution is also necessary. Ensure that your potential dog is bred ethically and that you create a safe space and a happy home.