

Have you heard of or seen any of these new hybrid dogs around your neighborhood? So what’s the scoop on these new Poo’s?
First let me introduce you to some names you may not be familiar with. How about Labradoodle, Golendoodle, Yorkipoo, Cockapoo, Schnoodle, or some less familiar ones like Lhasa- Poo, Pom-Poo, Cocker- Chon and Bi-Tzu.
In an effort to combine desired traits of different breeds of dogs some breeders have begun developing a separate and distinct breed with known characteristics that will appeal to select owners.
The most popular designer, or hybrid, dog is the Labradoodle— a cross between a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle. The desired traits of this new breed would be a non-shedding, intelligent, delicate framed, exuberant, lovable and loyal dog.
What becomes critical is who is doing the breeding and how they have selectively bred to achieve those results. To date there appears to be a range of quality when it comes to breeders so researching your breeder is as important as researching the breed.
The American Kennel Club (AKC) has specific requirements when it comes to recognizing a breed as pedigree. In the case of the above mentioned Labradoodle, there must be at least 300 Labradoodles distributed among 20 states of 3rd generation pedigree. Currently the AKC recognizes 150 breeds. There are other requirements for recognition as a breed so for now, while many of these designer dogs enjoy a growing popularity, none have been officially recognized as an AKC breed.
Whether they be a designer dog or expensive mutt— who cares? They are our pets and we love them.
I would like to take this opportunity on behalf of all of us here at DogWatch of Greater Pittsburgh to thank you, our customers, for our wonderful success and growth over the years. We love what we do and you make us what we are!
Thanks, Jack, Liz, Arlene and Randy.
Be sure to check out our Referral Program on this website to see how you can get nice gift certificates for your Vet or Pet Professional of choice.