Designer dog breeds are all the rage these days.  You’re probably familiar with some of the most popular, such as the Labradoodle, Yoripoo, Cockapoo, and Puggle.  Myself, I’ve been wanting a Schnoodle, because it combines the best traits of my favorite breed, the Schnauzer, and a poodle.  Both are known to be nonshedding, and so what could be more hypoallergenic than a combination of the two?  And it’s long been believed that mutts are generally more healthy and hearty than purebreds, not to mention they are just so lovable.  So I was curious, what are some of the most unusual Dog Breed Mixes available today, and what makes them so special?  Here is my top 10 list of favorite breed mixes.

Chiweenie

A Cross between a Chihuahua and a Dachshund, these happy, easygoing little dogs usually live an average of 15 years and weigh about 10 pounds.

Pomeagle

This cross between a Pomeranian and a Beagle usually weighs about 15 pounds when full grown, and has a lifespan of around 15 years.  They are usually very cheerful and affectionate and love attention.

Puggle

These active, happy and energetic dogs are a cross between a Pug and a Beagle.  They are very intelligent, but can be stubborn as well.  Average weight can be anywhere between 15-30 pounds.  Puggles have a lifespan of 10-15 years.

Maltipoo

A cross between a Maltese and Toy Poodle, these adorable little bundles can be quite active and full of energy.  Unfortunately, they love to bark. But fortunately, they shed very little and they love kids.  They are also very intelligent and fairly easy to train.  They can weigh anywhere from 5 to 15 pounds, with an average lifespan of 10-13 years.

Aussiedoodle

This cross between an Australian Shepherd and Poodle can come in a variety of colors and sizes, depending on the size of the Poodle they have been mixed with.  That means they can weigh anywhere from 25 to 70 pounds.  So if you adopt an Aussiedoodle puppy, you will have to wait until it’s full grown to see what you end up with.  They are very intelligent and affectionate dogs that can live up to 12-15 years.

Bo-Jack

This is a Boston Terrier and Jack Russell cross.  They are low maintenance and shed very little.  They also make great watchdogs.  Average weight is 15-25 pounds, and they have a lifespan of 12-15 years.

Beabull

A cross between a Bulldog and a Beagle, this sturdy dog does shed, so will require some routine grooming.  Their average weight is anywhere from 30-55 pounds, and they have a lifespan of 9-14 years.

Cheagle

How sweet is that face?  It’s a combination of Chihuahua and Beagle.  The Cheagle is low maintenance, sheds very little, and is very active and energetic.  Cheagles need regular exercise.  They do make good watchdogs, but are not real great with small children.  On average a Cheagle can weigh anywhere from 6 to 30 pounds.  They have a longer lifespan than many breeds, usually from 14-16 years.

Pomsky

This Pomeranian and Siberian Husky mix kind of looks like a fox, doesn’t it?  The Pomsky has an average lifespan of 13-15 years and weighs in at 15-30 pounds.  They are a little higher maintenance, because they need a good daily brushing.  They are also highly intelligent and easy to train, although they can have a stubborn streak.

Gorgy

How unusual is this little guy?  He’s a cross between a Golden Retriever and a Pembroke Welsh Corgi, aka a Corgen.  The Gorgy is fairly easy to train and requires an average amount of grooming and exercise.  Their average weight is 35-45 pounds, and they can live anywhere between 8-12 years.

In Summary

The combination of dog breeds is nearly limitless.  But it seems like the most popular breeds that are mixed with another are Poodles, Beagles and Chihuahuas.  My own little “designer dog” is Chuey, who is a Chi-Jack or Jack-Chi.  Of course I don’t think he was bred to be a designer dog.  His mom was a Chihuahua who just happened to get it on with the neighborhood Jack Russell…. one of those “oops” kind of things.  But anyway, he’s my special little guy and I adore him.  I adopted him when he was 3 months old, and he’s about to turn 9 years old this summer.  According to my research, he should live to be anywhere between 15 to 18 years old.

Do you have a special designer dog breed that you are especially fond of?  I’d love to hear your story.  Feel free to share in the comments.