12 Best Mixed Breed Dogs
Mixed breed dogs have developed a reputation for being some of the best family pets around. These dogs are usually a mix of two breeds and with careful breeding, they can have wonderful characters. Mixed breeds are unique and allow dog owners to have the best of both breeds in one adorable pup.
Is A Mixed Breed Dog The Perfect Pet?
They could be! The best, mixed breed dogs are a wonderful combination of two breeds and their personalities tend not to fall to any extremes making them fantastic companions. There are many benefits to owning a mixed breed dog including good genetic diversity meaning better long-term health.
The downside to mixed breed dogs is the unknown - you can’t be sure how the mixed breed dog is going to look, how they are going to behave, or their health. That is why choosing the right mix is important, and if you can meet the parent dogs it’s even better as you can see what the parents are like and this will give you an idea of how the puppies may be.
Not sure which breed is best for you? We’ve listed the top 12 mixed breed dogs below.
1. Cavachon
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The Cavachon is a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel x Bichon Frise. These small dogs are a popular mixed breed thanks to their adorable appearance and affectionate natures. The Cavachon is a charming dog that loves to be around people, they are lap dogs and they are a great choice for first-time owners.
Height: 31-33cm
Size: Small
Character: Intelligent, affectionate, playful
Life Expectancy: 10-12 years
2. Shorkie
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Shorkies are a mix between the Shih Tzu and Yorkshire Terrier breeds. This mixed breed is quite new but has quickly become popular with families and older people because Shorkies are excellent companions. Shorkies are affectionate, playful, and friendly.
Height: 15-35cm
Size: Small
Character: Affectionate, energetic, friendly
Life Expectancy: 12-14 years
3. Pomsky
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The Pomsky is a mix between a Pomeranian and a Siberian Husky. As the two parent breeds are quite different, the Pomsky can vary in size and personality as traits can be inherited from either parent. Overall, Pomskies are known to be good for first-time owners. They are playful, intelligent, and excellent around children.
Height: 58-65cm
Size: Medium
Character: Loyal, intelligent, playful
Life Expectancy: 13-15 years
4. Cockapoo
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A cross between Poodles and Cocker Spaniels are Cockapoos. They are one of the first hybrid dog breeds and are considered to be one of the best, mixed breed dogs which is why they are hugely popular across the world.
Cockapoos can vary in size but they are fun-loving, loyal, and obedient dogs that are known for being highly adaptable. This mixed breed thrives on having human company so it can be prone to separation anxiety if left alone for long periods.
Height: 25-38cm
Size: Small/Medium
Character: Intelligent, energetic, social
Life Expectancy: 10-12 years
5. Goldendoodle
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A cross between the Golden Retriever and the Poodle, the Goldendoodle is a highly social mixed breed dog that is popular among first-time owners. Goldendoodles are loyal, outgoing, and tend to get along well with everyone.
These dogs can vary in appearance and size depending on the parent dogs and which traits they inherit more of. Goldendoodles love being in a family environment and they are eager to please, making them easy to train.
Height: 56-66cm
Size: Large
Character: Affectionate, social, adaptable
Life Expectancy: 12-14 years
6. Chug
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The Chug is a cross between a Chihuahua and a Pug, this means these mixed-breed dogs can be aloof like a Chihuahua or comical like a Pug. Overall, Chugs are known for being affectionate, mischievous, and social. They are happiest when by their owner’s side and although easy to train, Chugs can be stubborn at times.
Height: 15.5-30cm
Size: Small
Character: Affectionate, alert, gentle
Life Expectancy: 10-12 years
7. Weimador
The Weimador is a cross between a Weimaraner and a Labrador. This relatively unknown mixed breed is social and affectionate, loving to run around and play with other dogs. Weimadors can vary in appearance from dog to dog but they tend to look athletic with short hair and expressive grey, amber, or blue-grey eyes.
Height: 53-60cm
Size: Medium
Character: Friendly, affectionate, energetic
Life Expectancy: 10-13 years
8. Siberian Retriever
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The Siberian Retriever sometimes called a Huskador or a Labsky, is a Siberian Husky - Labrador cross. Siberian Retrievers are active, outgoing, and eager to please. As both Labradors and Huskies are working breeds it is no surprise that Siberian Retrievers are energetic and intelligent with incredible stamina.
Height: 50-71cm
Size: Large
Character: High energy, bold, intelligent
Life Expectancy: 12-14 years
9. Poochon
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A cross between a Bichon Frise and a Miniature Poodle, the Poochon has been a popular crossbreed since the 90s. Poochons are loyal, affectionate, and charming. They are social little dogs and make wonderful companions. Poochons have low shedding coats making them popular dogs for people who have allergies.
Height: 22-35cm
Size: Small
Character: Adaptable, loving, social
Life Expectancy: 12-14 years
10. Bernedoodle
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Bernedoodles are a cross between Bernese Mountain Dogs and Poodles (usually Standard Poodles). This is an active crossbreed that is friendly, playful, and loyal. Bernedoodles are goofy and love to entertain. These dogs are known for sticking close to their family and they don’t like to be left on their own.
Height: 58-73cm
Size: Large
Character: Playful, friendly, energetic
Life Expectancy: 12-14 years
11. Spreagle
The Spreagle is a cross between a Beagle and an English Springer Spaniel. Spreagles are charming, fun-loving, and friendly. They love to be around people, are good with children, and they make great watchdogs. Spreagles are enthusiastic and energetic, they love to play interactive games.
Height: 35-60cm
Size: Large
Character: Playful, active, loyal
Life Expectancy: 12-14 years
12. Schnoodle
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Schnoodles are a cross between a Schnauzer and a Poodle (Toy, Miniature, or Standard). Although each individual Schnoodle can vary in size and temperament, these dogs are generally loyal, affectionate, and loving. They are happiest when around their family so thrive in a home environment where someone is always home to keep them company.
Height: 25-66cm
Size: Medium/Large
Character: Intelligent, fun-loving, loyal
Life Expectancy: 10-12 years
Mixed Breeds To Avoid
Some breeds to not mix well together, and the following are mixed breed dogs that you should avoid.
1. Pitsky (Pitbull - Siberian Husky)
The Pitsky is a cross between a Pitbull and Siberian Husky. This combination of two stubborn, strong breeds can result in an unmanageable dog that has a number of predisposed health problems. Early socialisation and training are essential as Pitskies can develop destructive personalities when not properly trained.
Height: 50-63cm
Size: Medium/Large
Character: High-energy, loyal, stubborn
Life Expectancy: 12-14 years
2. Hug (Husky - Pug)
The Hug is a cross of the Siberian Husky and the Pug, two very different breeds. The Husky is a working dog with excellent endurance and the Pug is a brachycephalic companion dog that likes to relax. Combining the two can be problematic and there are a number of health issues this mixed breed can suffer from (mostly from the Pug parent).
Height: 40 - 55cm
Size: Small/Medium
Character: Affectionate, alert, friendly
Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
3. Doberdane (Doberman - Great Dane)
The Doberdane is a cross between a Doberman and Great Dane, this is a huge and extremely powerful mixed breed. Crossing these two breeds can create a strong but anxious and protective dog that is difficult to manage. A Doberdane mix would not be suitable for first-time owners and consistent training would be a must to ensure this huge dog responds to commands.
Height: 66-79cm
Size: Large
Character: Protective, energetic, alert
Life Expectancy: 10-12 years
Found The Right Mixed Breed Dog For You?
If you’re ready to bring a new dog home, use Puppies to find a healthy puppy near you. All listings are checked to ensure your new puppy comes from a reputable breeder.
Before you bring your new furry friend home, read our puppy health guide and dog ownership costs report for handy tips on how to look after your new puppy whilst keeping your costs down.
