Designer Breeds

[Laurel Mc]

I don't know the purpose (if any) behind some of the mixes, but I know the labradoodle and other poodle mixes aren't just done to prevent shedding, but because so many people are allergic to dogs. Poodles aren't always a desirable breed so they mixed the lovable lab with the poodle to get the benefits of the lab's personality with the coat of the poodle. Not all of the mixes have this desirable coat so you have to go to a reputable breeder to make sure. I prefer mutts to pure bred and wish that ALL the breeding could be kept to a minimum until all dogs find a home, but I can see why a person with allergy issues would want a poodle mix. Its better to seek out a dog that can be allergy free, shed free and a part of the family rather than condemning one to the basement or back yard alone.

I am the proud owner of a hilarious bassador (bassett/lab). He was probably an accident and not on purpose, but he's wonderful.

[Giselle]

See, now, I know I'm beating a dead horse, but why on earth do people dislike purebred Poodles and just adore Labradors and Goldens so much that they have to mix the two breeds? And who on EARTH said that a Poodle/Lab mix will exactly have a Labrador personality and a Poodle coat? Is somebody playing God that I don't know about? Point blank: there are no reputable breeders of designer mixes, in my book. They all breed for the sole purpose of producing companion-quality pets. There are millions of companion-quality pets dying in shelters every year. They are simply adding insult to injury.

Besides, if you're looking for a Retriever with a curly coat, try the Curly Coated Retriever...or something like a Portuguese Water Dog or Irish Water Spaniel.

Also, when people say they're allergic to dogs, they're most likely referring to its saliva and dander. All dogs have saliva. All dogs have dander.

Alrighty. Done beating the dead horse!

(P.S. I have a "Dobrador Pintriever", but I just like to call her my doberman/lab MIX.)