A new study from the Royal Veterinary College has revealed that three popular designer crossbreeds could have behavior problems, with mixed-breed dogs more likely to display 'undesirable behaviors' than their purebred parents. The Royal Veterinary College said this research showed one breed especially showed higher aggressive behaviors. Dr Rowena Packer, senior author of the paper, stated: 'Realistic expectations are key to happy dog ownership. When expectations and reality don't align, both dogs and owners can struggle. Preconceived beliefs, such as the idea that designer-crossbreeds are naturally easy to train or are safe with children, can have serious consequences if they aren't supported by evidence.'
One breed was found to be worse than the others in displaying undesirable behavior, with Cockapoos tending to display more undesirable behavior compared to Labradoodles and Cavapoos. The exact statistical differences in behavior between these breeds have not been detailed in the findings.
Realistic expectations are key to happy dog ownership. When expectations and reality don't align, both dogs and owners can struggle. Preconceived beliefs, such as the idea that designer-crossbreeds are naturally easy to train or are safe with children, can have serious consequences if they aren't supported by evidence.
The study looked at types of crossbreeds thought to be easier to train or especially suited to family homes with children compared to purebred dogs, and it is described as the 'first of its kind in the UK'. The methodology and sample size, including how many dogs were included, have not been specified, and what specific undesirable behaviors were measured, such as types of aggression or anxiety symptoms, remains unclear.
Intentional crossbreeding between established 'purebred' dogs is increasingly used to create new 'designer' dog breeds, according to the Royal Veterinary College. The popularity of designer crossbreeds has surged in the UK over the past decade, and particularly since the pandemic, with many designer crossbreeds now outnumbering their purebred parent breeds in the UK.
Our research shows that many designer-crossbreeds do not always behave as expected, particularly regarding training, anxiety and aggression, which were more common than in their parent breeds. We also found that not all 'Doodles' are alike, with Cockapoos tending to display more undesirable behaviour compared to Labradoodles and Cavapoos, highlighting that each breed is unique. By providing reliable scientific data, we can help puppy buyers to make better-informed choices that support both human wellbeing and canine welfare.
Previous RVC research revealed that the physical health of common Doodles is broadly similar to that of their parent breeds, while designer crossbreed owners are often drawn to these dogs by a perception of superior health to purebreds. Environmental or training factors that might influence behavioral outcomes have not been addressed in the current study.
The new study suggests that neither health nor behavioral advantages should be assumed for Doodles simply because they are crossbreeds. Dr Rowena Packer added: 'Our research shows that many designer-crossbreeds do not always behave as expected, particularly regarding training, anxiety and aggression, which were more common than in their parent breeds. We also found that not all 'Doodles' are alike, with Cockapoos tending to display more undesirable behaviour compared to Labradoodles and Cavapoos, highlighting that each breed is unique. By providing reliable scientific data, we can help puppy buyers to make better-informed choices that support both human wellbeing and canine welfare.' Recommendations from the RVC for prospective owners based on this study have not been provided.