What's the difference between a designer dog and a mutt? Generally, a mutt is of uncertain ancestry. A designer dog has documented purebred ancestry, and one knows for sure what it is. The CKC is the leading registry for designer dogs. So what's up with these hybrid, "designer" dogs? Are they healthier? The percentage of hybrid dogs with genetic problems is much lower than purebred dogs because the gene pool is mixed. Breeders who breed purebred to creating a first generation hybrid believe in the heterosis effect and hybrid vigor. Vigor means, "Physical or mental strength,or force. "When you breed two different types of purebred dogs together you can get any combination of any of the characteristics found in either breed. If you are stuck on a hybrid dog how do you know which one to choose? Read the temperament and care for both breeds in the cross and be prepared for any combination of the two. If everything about both breeds matches you and your families personality and lifestyle, then you can most likely assume this cross will work for you.
To help you understand this concept we will use the Schnoodle as an example. A Schnoodle is a cross between the Miniature Schnauzer and the Poodle (usually the Toy Poodle). In general we will call the first purebred "purebred-A", and the second "purebred-B". Note, the examples of the differences in coat only apply to the Schnoodle hybrid, all other hybrids will vary in their own way depending on what is in the cross.
F1 = 1st generation puppy - 50% purebred-A and 50% purebred-B - for example, a Miniature Schnauzer to Poodle cross, this is first generation, resulting in healthier offspring. In this particular Schnoodle cross hair type can be wirey like a Miniature Schnuazer, Wavy/shaggy, they don't shed, pups in the same litter can vary.
