Groundbreaking research from the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) has challenged the widespread belief that designer crossbreed dogs, such as Cockapoos, Labradoodles, and Cavapoos, are healthier than their purebred counterparts.

The study, the largest of its kind globally, reveals that the overall health of these popular crossbreeds is largely similar to that of their parent breeds, debunking common misconceptions and offering crucial insights for prospective dog owners.

Designer crossbreeds, created by intentionally mixing established purebred dogs to produce new breeds like the Cockapoo (a Cocker Spaniel and Poodle mix), have seen a surge in popularity across the UK, especially post-pandemic. In 2023, for instance, the number of Cockapoos owned in the UK (653,597) outstripped both Cocker Spaniels (562,951) and Poodles (105,369).

This trend has been fuelled by the belief that crossbreeds are a healthier option, thought to benefit from reduced risks of inherited health issues common in purebreds. However, the new RVC study has shown that for the three most common designer crossbreeds – Cockapoo, Labradoodle, and Cavapoo—the risk for 57 of the most common canine disorders was virtually identical to that of their purebred parents in 86.6% of cases. Where differences did occur, they were almost evenly split, with designer crossbreeds showing a higher risk in 7% of comparisons and a lower risk in 6.4%.

Led by a team from the RVC, including master’s graduate Gina Bryson, Senior Lecturer Dr Rowena Packer, and Associate Professor Dr Dan O’Neill, the study involved surveying 9,402 UK owners of these popular crossbreeds and their parent breeds (Cocker Spaniel, Labrador Retriever, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, and various Poodle types). The health data provided by owners was meticulously analysed, comparing the likelihood of these dogs developing 57 common disorders.

Key Findings:

• There was no significant difference in disorder risk between the three most common designer crossbreeds and their purebred parent breeds in 86.6% of comparisons.
• Designer crossbreeds had a higher risk of 7% and a lower risk of 6.4% of the disorders.
• All three crossbreeds were more likely to suffer from dietary indiscretion, vomiting, diarrhoea, and ear infections than their parent breeds, particularly the Poodle.
• Cockapoos showed a higher tendency for itchy skin, often linked to allergies, than their parent breeds.
• Labradoodles and Cockapoos had a lower risk of patellar luxation (slipping kneecaps) compared to Poodles, while Cavapoos showed no difference.

These findings not only challenge the belief that designer crossbreeds are inherently healthier but also dispel the notion that purebred dogs are universally more susceptible to health issues due to their genetics.

Given these results, the RVC researchers advise prospective dog owners to focus on factors such as breed-specific health issues, size, behaviour, and temperament when choosing a dog. Importantly, they urge buyers to source their pets from high-welfare breeders who prioritise the health and well-being of their dogs over aesthetic appeal.

Dr Rowena Packer emphasised the importance of informed decision-making: “Our study shows that while the health of designer Poodle-crosses is no worse than their parent breeds’, it is also no better. Prospective owners should not assume their puppy will automatically be healthy due to being a crossbreed.”

She added: “Prospective owners should be extremely mindful that the popularity of Poodle-crosses means they are at high-risk of coming from poor welfare sources such as puppy farms and illegal imports to meet this demand, which could negatively influence their future health and welfare.”

Photo of a Cavapoo by Mia Anderson on Unsplash