Popular ‘designer’ dogs linked to excessive barking, separation-related distress, and growling over food or toys
‘Designer’ dogs like cockapoos and cavapoos are more likely to develop behaviour problems than purebreds, a new study suggests.
The research points to higher rates of ‘undesirable behaviours’ in popular crossbreeds, with soaring demand, patchy breeding and rookie owners all in the frame.
These teddy-bear mixes have become the nation’s go-to family pet, promising cute faces, big hearts and the prospect of low-shedding coats.
But new Royal Veterinary College research reported this week suggests many of these fashionable crossbreeds are showing more behaviour problems than the purebred dogs they come from.
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According to the study published in Plos One, owners of popular crossbreeds are more likely to report ‘undesirable behaviours’ than owners of the parent breeds.
That includes things like reactivity to strangers or other dogs, separation-related distress, resource guarding (growling over food or toys), excessive barking and difficulty settling. The findings covered several in-demand mixes, including cockapoos, cavapoos and labradoodles.
So why might these problems be cropping up more in designer mixes?
Red-hot demand and rushed breeding: When a type of dog becomes fashionable, some breeders chase quick litters and quick cash. That can mean poor selection for stable temperament, no meaningful health or DNA testing, and little care for the mother’s welfare or the pups’ early socialisation. Puppies that don’t get calm, consistent handling in those first eight weeks can be more anxious and reactive later on.
Mismatched expectations: Crossbreeds are often sold as ‘best of both worlds’ or ‘hypoallergenic’. In reality, you can get the strong work drive of a Poodle, the sensitivity of a Spaniel, the guarding instinct of a Retriever – and the coat may still shed. Families expecting a low-maintenance, cuddly lapdog can find themselves with a bright, busy youngster who needs serious mental and physical exercise.
First-time owners, post-pandemic habits: Many doodles landed in homes new to dogs, or in routines shaped by lockdown. Dogs that were rarely left alone now struggle with normal working hours. Without early training and gradual independence, separation-related problems are common.
Popularity bias: The most common mixes are everywhere right now, so there are simply more chances to spot – and report – issues. That said, the patterns highlighted suggest it’s not just a numbers game.
What counts as an undesirable behaviour?
- Reactivity: lunging, barking or growling at other dogs, people or traffic
- Separation-related issues: whining, howling, destructive behaviour when left alone
- Resource guarding: stiffening, growling or snapping around food, toys or resting spots
- Overarousal and frustration: inability to settle, constant jumping up, mouthing
- Noise sensitivity: fearfulness around fireworks, machinery or sudden sounds
“The results of this study highlight the importance of owners thoroughly exploring the characteristics of any breed or crossbreed during pre-purchase research to avoid misinformed breed selection,” the authors of the study wrote.
