Designer Dogs Labradoodle,Schnoodle

Some dog hybrids are now being selectively bred. The term designer dogs is often used to refer to these crosses. The practice causes much controversy; opponents cite the often exorbitant prices charged for what is essentially a mutt.

Whilst the trend to produce hybrid or designer dogs is considered new it is, in fact, a continuation of the centuries-old practice of selective breeding. All dog breeds were created for a particular purpose, usually some form of hunting, herding, or guarding. These tasks have been largely replaced by the need to produce healthy dogs with good temperaments as domestic companions or pets.

Proponents point out that there are bona fide reasons for the breeding of some specific crosses (the Labradoodle, for example, was first bred as a guide dog for visually impaired people with allergies), and also that the available research shows that crossbreds on average live longer and healthier lives.

In some dog sports, particularly flyball, hybrids have become very popular. For example, the Borderjack (Border Collie/Jack Russell Terrier) is desirable because it retains the small size of the Jack Russell but has the athletic ability and trainability of the Border Collie. The Borderstaffy (Border Collie/Staffordshire Bull Terrier) is prized because it has the speed of a Border Collie and the strength of a Staffordshire Bull Terrier.

The following are all the categories of dog breeds, most based on their appearance or working ability as well as others:

• Sighthounds
• Scent hounds
• Terriers
• Spaniels
• Spitz/Arctic dogs
• Herding or Pastoral dogs
• Guard dogs
• Working dogs
• Toy dogs
• Hunting dogs
• Cur dogs
• Companions
• Molosser
• Extinct dog breeds
• Dog breeds types

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