Mixed Breed Dogs
By Ileana Paules-Bronet, Purple Clover
All dogs are absolutely precious, and they all deserve loving homes. Many people go out of their way to get purebred dogs — but mixed breed pups are just as cute! These often-overlooked dogs are typically healthier than purebred dogs and they can even be easier to train. Mixed breed dogs, sometimes referred to as mutts, mongrels, or crossbreeds, often end up with all the many traits of their ancestors (while avoiding some of the negative traits). Click through this gallery to see some of the most adorable mixed breed dogs out there!
1. Schnoodle
A schnoodle is a cross between a schnauzer and a poodle. Because of the poodle part, these dogs are considered hypoallergenic. Schnoodles can take on any characteristics of poodles or schnauzers — some are as small as 10 pounds, while others can get up to 80 pounds. If you mix a full-sized poodle and a giant schnauzer, you get a giant schnoodle, which can be 65-90 pounds.
2. Pomsky
A pomsky is a mix of a pomeranian and a husky. This breed was originally created as a designer breed, but nowadays many pomskies find themselves in shelters. These dogs are known to be absolutely adorable and very playful. Because they're small, they are well-suited for apartment life.
3. Amstaff/Rottweiler Mix
Amstaff/rottweiler mixes aren't very common, but they're so beautiful! Amstaffs (American Staffordshire Terriers) are known for being confident, smart, loyal, good companions. Rottweilers are also known for being loyal and confident, but they're also very loving. Amstaff/rottweiler mixes are definitely large dogs, so they need space to exercise.
4. Yorkipoo
Yorkipoos are adorable little dogs who always look like puppies. These dogs, a combination of Yorkies (Yorkshire Terriers) and Poodles (usually mini or toy), are great companions. They're intelligent, gentle, energetic, and affectionate. Yorkipoos are considered hypoallergenic. These playful dogs are great for apartment life, but they tend to bark a lot.
5. Lab/Corgi Mix
Sometimes known as Corgidors, Corgi/Lab mixes are great family dogs. This hybrid dog is loyal and watchful. They tend to be calm, intelligent, even-tempered, and alert. Corgi/Lab mixes can be somewhat protective of their owners.
6. Husky/German Shepherd Mix
Sometimes known as the Gerberian Shepsky, German Shepherd/Siberian Husky mixes are bold, powerful dogs. Although they look a lot like wolves, these dogs are very friendly and hardworking. German Shepherds are fearless, intelligent, and loyal, while huskies are docile, active, and friendly.
7. Podenco/Bernese Mountain Dog Mix
The Podenco Canario is a type of dog that hails from the Canary Islands. These dogs are very healthy, and they tend to be alert, energetic, and somewhat nervous. Bernese Mountain Dogs, on the other hand, are sweet and relaxed (which balances out the anxious energy of the Podenco). These large dogs are absolutely beautiful.
8. Boxer/Beagle Mix
The boxer/beagle mix, sometimes called a boggle, is a cheerful family dog. They have a lot of energy, so they need big yards to explore and play in. Boggles are very social and loyal, and are great for families if they're trained properly.
9. Maltipoo
This charming dog is an adorable mix of a maltese and poodle. These dogs are active and affectionate, which makes them great for owners of any age or temperament. Maltipoos are easygoing, friendly, and easy to train, but they do bark a lot.
10. American Bulldog/Australian Cattle Dog Mix
American bulldogs are active, agile dogs originally bred to chase down cattle and help on the farm. They're strong, energetic dogs, and they need very active owners. Australian Cattle Dogs, also called Queensland Heelers or Blue Heelers, are very smart herding dogs. They're curious and alert. American bulldog/Australian Cattle Dog mixes are therefore great dogs for active families with big yards.
11. Cockapoo
Cockapoos, crosses between Cocker Spaniels and Poodles, are very popular "designer" dogs. These adorable dogs are hypoallergenic. Cockapoos are people-oriented dogs, so they're very friendly, forgiving, affectionate, loving, and easily-trainable. Plus, they're just so gosh darn cute!
12. Puggle
The puggle, a mix between a pug and beagle, is a friendly and fun-loving dog. These pups get along well with other animals and people. Puggles are caring and smart, but they don't love learning tricks (and they do like to bark).
13. Corgi/Chihuahua Mix
The Corgi/Chihuahua mix — also called the Chigi or Cohuahua — loves to be the center of attention. These dogs are intelligent, playful, and loving, but they don't always do well with other dogs (since they want to be your whole world). These dogs are protective and loyal, but they need the right training and socialization.
14. Labradoodle
The Labradoodle is one of the most well-known cross-breeds. The labrador/poodle mixes are hugely popular because of their wonderful characteristics. Labradoodles are known to be affectionate, sociable, smart dogs. They don't shed much, so they're often considered hypoallergenic. These dogs are friendly, easy to train, and very playful.
15. Cocker Spaniel/Chow Mix
Another uncommon mixed breed dog, the cocker spaniel/chow mix doesn't even have a name. Cocker spaniels are gentle, happy, easygoing, and smart, while Chow Chows are serious, aloof, and mature. These dogs do great in cities, and they don't have many specific exercise needs.
16. Husky/Border Collie Mix
Husky/Border Collie mixes are beautiful "designer" dogs that exhibit the best traits of both Border Collies and Siberian Huskies. They are friendly, enthusiastic, active dogs. They are very smart and loyal. These dogs require a lot of activity and space, as well as a good amount of attention and love.
17. Morkie
The Morkie, which is a mix between a Maltese and a Yorkshire Terrier, is an adorable, fluffy little dog. These hybrid dogs don't shed much, but they require regular grooming. Morkies are tiny, but that doesn't mean they're fearful — in fact, they're very stubborn and assertive. These little dogs also require a lot of love and affection from their owners. They'll want to go everywhere with you and are they epitome of the "lap dog." That said, they're not lazy; they are actually very playful and energetic.
18. Goldendoodle
Like labradoodles, goldendoodles are very popular hybrid dogs. These Golden Retriever/Poodle mixes are friendly, intelligent, and active. Goldendoodles are quick learners, and they're often trained as guide dogs. These crossbreeds are incredibly affectionate and love to play.
19. Dalmatian/Blue Heeler Mix
Dalmatian/Blue Heeler mixes are very active and energetic. These dogs are quite strong and can be boisterous, so they aren't always great for small children. Although these intelligent dogs have the potential to be great companions, they are best suited for experienced owners.
