Study Debunks Health Claims of Celebrity-Favored Designer Dogs

A recent study by the Royal Veterinary College has challenged the widely held belief that designer cross-breed dogs, favored by celebrities, are healthier than purebreds. The research, which examined data from over 9,400 dogs, focused on popular crosses such as cockapoos, cavapoos, and labradoodles.

These designer breeds, which result from crossing poodles with other breeds like cocker spaniels, cavalier King Charles spaniels, or Labradors, have gained immense popularity in recent years. Tiger Woods and Kelly Brook are among the notable figures who own these trendy pets.

The study's findings reveal that these cross-breeds have a similar risk level for 87% of the 57 health conditions examined. This contradicts claims made by some breeders about the superior health of these dogs.

"This study has demonstrated that although the health of designer poodle-crosses is no worse than their parent breeds, it is also no better."

While the overall health risks are comparable, some specific differences were noted. All three cross-breeds showed an increased tendency for "dietary indiscretion" and a higher risk of diarrhoea and vomiting. Cockapoos, for instance, are 3.5 times more likely to visit the vet for ingesting foreign objects compared to poodles.

Interestingly, labradoodles show a 76% lower risk of patellar luxation (a knee condition) than poodles but are three times more likely to develop allergies and alopecia. Cavapoos, while half as likely to be obese as cavalier King Charles spaniels, are more prone to gastrointestinal issues.

The popularity of these designer breeds is evident in recent statistics. As of 2023, there were more cockapoos (653,597) in Britain than either cocker spaniels (562,951) or poodles (105,369). Cockapoos now rank as the second most popular puppy breed in the UK, surpassed only by French bulldogs.

Animal welfare experts emphasize that prospective pet owners should base their decisions on accurate health information, expected size, and temperament rather than trendy assumptions. Dr. Dan O'Neill, co-author of the study, advises avoiding dogs with extreme body shapes, regardless of whether they are purebred or cross-bred.

It's worth noting that the term "designer dog" was first coined in the 1980s, with cockapoos being one of the earliest examples, first bred in the United States in the 1950s. Labradoodles, on the other hand, were intentionally bred in Australia in 1989, while cavapoos emerged in Australia in the late 1990s.

The study's findings underscore the importance of responsible breeding practices that prioritize health and temperament over aesthetics. As Dr. Packer warns, the high demand for these popular crosses may lead to poor welfare sources, potentially impacting the dogs' future health and well-being.

In conclusion, while designer cross-breeds may have their appeal, this research suggests that their health advantages over purebreds may be overstated. Prospective dog owners are encouraged to make informed decisions based on comprehensive health information and individual breed characteristics rather than following celebrity trends.