PR for mongrels
29 05 2007Following my recent thoughts on dogs and propaganda, Judy and I have been emailing about a trend that was unknown to me - the rebranded mongrel or crossbreed.
First, she sent me a picture of Ivy - a schoodle - apparently a poodle-schnauzer cross (in this case in miniature form). Today, I’ve learned about the labradoodle (labrador-poodle mix).
Allegedly the poodle’s coat makes it a good choice for those with allergies - so the breed is a favourite for mixing. An online search reveals a number of poo-dogs, such as: spoodles or cockapoos (poodle and cocker spaniel), roodles (a seemingly odd mix of poodle and rottweiler) and yorkipoos (you’ve guessed it - yorkshire terrier meets poodle).
The dorgi is fairly well known as originating when one of the Queen’s corgis mated with a dachshund owned by the late Princess Margaret.
CNN reported a couple of years ago that the trend was leading to high prices for the “designer mutts” with new mixes being created on demand.
Personally I am a big fan of rescue dogs, especially true mongrels. There are millions in need of a good home - and don’t support an industry that views animals for their income potential, as brands or genetic experiments.
If it was a matter of creating a name to help owners adopt a particular mongrel, I could accept the branding exercise. But not when it involves a deliberate selective breeding programme.
For me that’s the same as seeing dogs as commodities or fashion items (Paris Hilton puppy-purse) or creating a multi-billion dollar industry that has failed to resolve a major pet-food poisoning crisis.
Although terribly childish, though after a week of exam scripts I have a right I feel, all i have been doing since reading this is try and think of amusing names for crossbreeds; someone. somewhere should offer a prize. Sadly, given the general mood this morning got stuck on thinking up the back half of various combinations involving a Shi Tzu (yep I said it was childish); I’ll leave you with that thought!!
Wow! My cute little Ivy is online! This is thrilling, and will make a great addition to her baby album.
Ivy is actually our second schnoodle. Our first, Holly, is now 4 years old. I decided to get a schnoodle since my two favourite dogs in my life were my miniature poodle and my miniature schnauzer. So a schnoodle is just the perfect combination.
After experiencing the “mommy thing” with Holly, I knew I needed one more puppy in my life before rescuing any more dogs. And since Holly has such a great personality, and is so smart, I couldn’t help but get another schnoodle.
The interesting thing is that since these poodle crosses have become so popular, it’s not unusual to find them in shelters now. I’m looking forward to the day I can add to my pack with a rescued goldendoodle!
She is very sweet - and I love the Christmas names.