We all know that dogs come in a range of shapes and sizes, but besides purebreds (which have documented lineage back to their ancestors) there are plenty of mixed dog breeds that you've probably never heard of. These are the result of selected breeding between two purebreds, which creates a mix of individual features and characteristics derived from each dog. So, take a look at some of these unusual and interesting mixed breeds and see how many you've never heard of or seen before.
1. Puggle
These distinct looking dogs are nature's result of breeding a Pug and a Beagle. The history of the Puggle stems back to the 1980s when breeders in America where experimenting to create a new type of dog. However, it wasn't until 2000 onwards when Puggles began being sold commercially to owners who were after something a little different.
2. Cockapoo
If you've not seen one of these before, then be prepared for your heart to melt. The Cockapoo is the creation of a Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle. These dogs are smart and loyal with a good temperament, not forgetting the fact that they are absolutely adorable too!Cockapoos are also hypoallergenic - meaning they won't shed their hair, so they're perfect if you don't want to spend half your time vacuuming the house.
3. Labradoodle
Yep you guessed it - as the last two names suggest, this dog is made up of half Labrador and half Poodle. Although their characteristics can be regarded as unpredictable at times, these dogs are on the whole, friendly and energetic. They also make for great family dogs too, so if you're looking for a mixed breed then maybe the Labradoodle could be a top contender in your list.
4. Taco Terrier
There are some mixed breeds that look like they work a little more than others and there are those that make you look twice. The Taco Terrier definitely fits into the secondary category. Cute nonetheless, this breed stems from a Toy Fox Terrier and a Chihuahua, so they're full of energy, but require a lot of hard work to train and socialise. If you want to own one of these dogs then be prepared to put the work in and remember that it's not just about how cute they look. With successful training it will be well worth it in the end.
5. Horgi / Siborgi
Guess the mix here Got it yet? The Horgi (aka Siborgi) is a mix between a Corgi and a Husky. Taking the body shape of a Corgi (short and sturdy with little legs) and the facial features of a Husky, their coat comes in a range of shades and providing the colours are just right they can sometimes look like miniature Huskies. Insanely adorable and good to interact and play with - that's the Horgi (or Siborgi if you prefer) in a nutshell.
6. Corgipoo
The Corgi is still present in this dog, although instead of a Husky, the mix is created with a little help from the Toy Poodle. Living up to 14 years, these little bags of energy are full of life and are loving, affectionate and active as well. Just like the Taco Terrier, be prepared for a lot of work initially to train them and to keep their mind stimulated. If you get this right, then the Corgipoo will be a welcomed addition to your family.
7. Jack-A-Ranian
The Jack Russell is a popular dog for many owners, but what about when mixed with a Pomeranian?These two dogs are very distinctive in their own right, but mixed together they make for an interesting outcome. Standing at 15 inches tall (max) and weighing in at 6-14 pounds, the Jack-A-Ranian sits in the terrier and toy category can live between 13-15 years.
8. Pitsky
Last on our list of unusual mixed breeds is the Pitsky - derived from an American Pit Bull Terrier and the Siberian or Alaskan Husky. These dogs make for good family pets as well as watch dogs too, meaning that you can get the best of both worlds. Don't forget that due to their background, the Pitsky has a chasing instinct for small animals and even dears, so keeping them under control will curb their instinctive nature.
Unusual breeds
So there you have it, some of the more interesting and unusual mixed breeds that you may or may not have heard of before. Thanks for reading our post. Remember, if you are thinking about buying any mixed breed dog always do your research first to make sure that they will be right for your circumstances. A dog is for life, so you need to make sure that it's going to be the right breed and the best decision if you are committed to owning one. For more pet related news, check out the, , and profiles. Image credits: from Bigstock.