Dogs of mixed breeding vary from the so-called designer dogs, with purebred parents of two different recognized breeds, to the bit-of-everything type, the result of accidental, random crosses. Some designer hybrids are now extremely fashionable. They are mostly given whimsical combination names, such as Cockapoo (a Cocker Spaniel–Poodle cross).

Crossbreeding is the production of offspring by mating individuals from two or more breeds. This produces maximum heterozygosity. Designer breeds are created through crossbreeding. Their offspring do not reproduce themselves if bred.

LURCHER

Famed as a poacher’s dog, and used to hunt rabbit and hare, traditionally Lurchers were first-generation crosses of a sight hound with a terrier or a herding dog. Today, they are also bred with each other and ideally are greyhound size. In the home Lurchers are peaceful and tolerant, and make fine family companions.

COCKAPOO

Most Cockapoos are first-generation crosses of a Toy or Miniature Poodle with an American or sometimes English Cocker Spaniel. They are particularly valued for their tractable and affectionate characters. Their appearance is a variable mix of the parent breeds, but always with a wavy coat that sheds very little.

LABRADOODLE

The original Labrador-Poodle cross was intended as an assistance dog for allergy sufferers, but the Labradoodle has rapidly gained popularity as a family pet. In Australia, it is on its way to being a breed with a written standard. Elsewhere, this remains a crossbreed, with no official status but in huge demand. The dog’s personality attracts owners as much as its appearance. It is consistently level-headed and biddable without becoming serious or reserved.

SCHNOODLE

As this dog is a cross between a miniature, standard, or giant Schnauzer and a toy, miniature, or standard Poodle, it can vary widely in size, weight, colour and appearance. Most are small companion dogs, but they still need sufficient exercise to avoid behavioural problems.

BICHON YORKIE

 Some crossbreeds are created deliberately, but the first Bichon Frise and Yorkshire Terrier mix was a happy accident that breeders have chosen to repeat. The result is the Bichon Yorkie – a dog that is usually larger than the diminutive Yorkshire Terrier, with the feisty spirit of its terrier parent tempered by the more compliant nature of the Bichon Frise.

BULL BOXER 

The Bull Boxer is a cross between the laid-back Boxer and bull-baiting dogs, such as, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, which is highly popular but may be difficult with other pets. The Bull Boxer occupies the middle ground in size and character. This dog needs commitment, but rewards its owner well.

LUCAS TERRIER

This rare working terrier was developed in the 1940s by crossing Norfolk Terriers with Sealyham Terriers to produce a small, nimble dog to follow game to ground. Smart and eager to please, it is easy to train and quietly behaved, provided it has a good daily walk. It enjoys play and loves to dig, but is less inclined to bark than other terrier breeds.

MAL-SHI

 Also known as the Malt-tzu, this small dog is a cross between a Maltese and a Shih Tzu. Developed in the 1990s, the Mal-shi has proved popular in many countries especially where there is demand for dogs with low shedding coats. If puppies are well socialized and trained, they are said to be a good choice for first time owners.

GOLDENDOODLE

One of the newest “designer dogs”, this mixture of the Golden Retriever and the Poodle was first bred in the USA in the 1990s. Since then the Goldendoodle’s growing popularity has encouraged breeders elsewhere to continue its development. Most of these dogs are first-generation crosses and vary considerably in appearance – some have curly coats, while others are wavy or straight. The crossbreed’s size depends on whether the Poodle parent is a medium, miniature, or toy variety. Although lively and energetic, Goldendoodles have gentle temperaments and are usually easy to train. They get on well with children and other pets.

LABRADINGER

Also known as the Springador, this Labrador Retriever and English Springer Spaniel cross may result from unplanned breeding on country estates where gundogs were kept. Interest in fashionable crossbreeds has given it popularity, and a name. It is an excellent gundog that can be trained to retrieve and flush game, and also makes a good family pet.

PUGGLE

Developed in the 1990s, the Puggle is a cross between a Pug and a Beagle that has become increasingly popular in recent years. It is good with people and with other dogs and easily adapts to living in a town apartment or on a farm. It needs daily walks, including games, to keep it happy.

RANDOM-BRED DOGS