Designer Crossbreed Dogs Linked to Higher Rates of Undesirable Behaviours
New research from the Royal Veterinary College suggests that popular 'designer' crossbreed dogs, such as cockapoos and cavapoos, are more likely to develop behaviour problems than their purebred parents. The study, published in the journal Plos One, points to higher rates of undesirable behaviours in these fashionable mixes, with factors like soaring demand, inconsistent breeding practices, and inexperienced owners all contributing to the issue.
Understanding the Behavioural Challenges
According to the findings, owners of popular crossbreeds report a greater incidence of undesirable behaviours compared to owners of the parent breeds. These behaviours include:
- Reactivity to strangers or other dogs
- Separation-related distress
- Resource guarding, such as growling over food or toys
- Excessive barking
- Difficulty settling down
The research covered several in-demand mixes, including cockapoos, cavapoos, and labradoodles, which have become the nation's go-to family pets due to their cute faces, affectionate nature, and the promise of low-shedding coats.
Key Factors Driving Behavioural Issues
So why are these problems more prevalent in designer mixes? Several critical factors are at play:
- Red-Hot Demand and Rushed Breeding: When a type of dog becomes fashionable, some breeders prioritise quick litters and profits over quality. This often leads to poor selection for stable temperament, inadequate health or DNA testing, and insufficient care for the mother's welfare or the puppies' early socialisation. Puppies that lack calm, consistent handling in their first eight weeks can become more anxious and reactive later in life.
- Mismatched Expectations: Crossbreeds are frequently marketed as offering the 'best of both worlds' or being 'hypoallergenic'. However, the reality can be quite different. Owners might inherit the strong work drive of a Poodle, the sensitivity of a Spaniel, or the guarding instinct of a Retriever, and the coat may still shed. Families expecting a low-maintenance, cuddly lapdog often find themselves with a bright, energetic youngster requiring significant mental and physical exercise.
- First-Time Owners and Post-Pandemic Habits: Many doodles have ended up in homes new to dog ownership or in routines shaped by lockdowns. Dogs that were rarely left alone during the pandemic now struggle with normal working hours, leading to separation-related problems when early training and gradual independence are not provided.
- Popularity Bias: The widespread presence of these common mixes means there are more opportunities to observe and report issues. However, the patterns highlighted in the study suggest that the problem extends beyond mere numbers, indicating a genuine trend in behavioural challenges.
Defining Undesirable Behaviours
The study categorises undesirable behaviours into several key areas:
- Reactivity: Lunging, barking, or growling at other dogs, people, or traffic.
- Separation-Related Issues: Whining, howling, or destructive behaviour when left alone.
- Resource Guarding: Stiffening, growling, or snapping around food, toys, or resting spots.
- Overarousal and Frustration: Inability to settle, constant jumping up, or mouthing.
- Noise Sensitivity: Fearfulness around fireworks, machinery, or sudden sounds.
The authors of the study emphasised the importance of thorough pre-purchase research. "The results of this study highlight the importance of owners thoroughly exploring the characteristics of any breed or crossbreed during pre-purchase research to avoid misinformed breed selection," they wrote. This underscores the need for prospective dog owners to understand the specific traits and potential challenges associated with designer crossbreeds before making a commitment.
