- Mixed breeds like Labradoodles and Cockapoos, unlike their purebred counterparts, do not inherently boast superior health.
Mixed breed dogs, often referred to as mongrels, are often thought to be healthier than purebreds. However, this isn't always the case with popular designer dogs like Labradoodles and Cockapoos. A study published in the journal "PLoS ONE" reveals this to be true for these specific breed mixes.
Celebrities like tennis star Roger Federer, actor Chris Hemsworth, and actress Brie Larson have chosen these Doodle hybrid dogs, which are a deliberate 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 frequently praised for their friendly nature and sometimes, hypoallergenic coats.
The exact number of such dogs in Germany is unknown, according to official statistics, which categorize them as "mongrels" along with other mixed breeds. Sites offering puppies list numerous Labradoodle, Cockapoo, and Cavapoo pups.
Do mixed breeds mean better health?
Potential dog owners sometimes select a mixed breed with the expectation that their pet will be less susceptible to illness. Mongrels are often believed to be stronger than purebreds due to their more diverse gene pool.
A study published a decade ago in "PLoS ONE" found that purebred dogs are more prone to certain diseases than mongrels. This is likely because purebreds are commonly bred for specific traits, sometimes at the expense of overall wellness, allowing harmful genes to build up.
Recently, a research group from the UK's Royal Veterinary College investigated the health of Doodle hybrid dogs. They surveyed over 9,400 dog owners about 57 common canine health issues. The data from the mixes was compared to that of purebreds like Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Cocker Spaniel, Labrador Retriever, and Poodle.
Analyzing the dogs' age, sex, neutering status, and the owners' age and sex, the results showed that in almost 87% of the health comparisons, there were no significant differences between the hybrid dogs and their parent breeds.
Consider more than just health
The team concluded that there's no reason to assume that Doodle mixes are healthier than the breeds they come from, at least they're not sicker either. Other important factors should be considered when choosing a dog, such as whether the temperament and needs of the breed or breed mix fit your lifestyle, and whether the puppy comes from a reliable breeder.
Despite the popularity of Doodle hybrid dogs in Germany, as evidenced by celebrities like Roger Federer, Chris Hemsworth, and Brie Larson, the exact health status of these mixed breeds in the country remains unknown due to official statistics classifying them as 'mongrels'.
Interestingly, a recent study found no significant differences in health between Doodle hybrid dogs and their parent breeds, challenging the common belief that mixed breeds are inherently healthier than purebreds.
