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Study Reveals Designer Dogs Face More Behavioral Issues

3/19/2026

Summary

Story summary

A Royal Veterinary College study finds designer crossbreed dogs in the UK, including cockapoos and cavapoos, have more behavioral issues than purebreds.
The study surveyed over 9,000 dog owners and found cockapoos display aggression and fear more than cocker spaniels and poodles.
Labradoodles performed better than poodles but worse than labradors.
Professor Daniel Mills says findings do not indicate a genetic predisposition, and owner expectations and training may influence behavior.

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Story summary

A Royal Veterinary College study finds designer crossbreed dogs in the UK, including cockapoos and cavapoos, have more behavioral issues than purebreds.
The study surveyed over 9,000 dog owners and found cockapoos display aggression and fear more than cocker spaniels and poodles.
Labradoodles performed better than poodles but worse than labradors.
Professor Daniel Mills says findings do not indicate a genetic predisposition, and owner expectations and training may influence behavior.