Doodle crossbreeds have built a reputation as friendly, low-maintenance family pets, but new research suggests the reality may be more complicated.
A study carried out by the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) has challenged common assumptions about popular 'doodle' crossbreeds, finding they may be more likely to show undesirable behaviour than their purebred parents.
Undesirable behaviour
Researchers analysed the behaviour of 9,402 dogs, including Cockapoos, Labradoodles and Cavapoos. Behaviours included non-social fear, such as fear of loud noises, separation-related problems and high excitability.
Owners reported struggling to train their dogs or feeling unable to leave them alone due to anxiety-related behaviours. Cockapoos, in particular, showed higher levels of undesirable behaviours than both their parent breeds and other doodle types, including increased aggression.
A top choice among first-time owners
The findings challenge the widely held belief that crossbreeding produces dogs that are easier to train or better suited to family life. Researchers emphasised that such assumptions can lead to mismatched expectations, which may negatively affect both owners and animal welfare.
The study also found that owners of designer crossbreeds were more likely to be first-time dog owners and to rely on informal sources of training advice, such as social media or friends and family, rather than professional guidance.
While a dog's behaviour may reflect inherited traits and environment, breed alone is not a reliable guide, suggests Dogs Trust. Prospective owners should proritise training, socialisation and research over breed assumptions when it comes to choosing a dog.
