Is buying a Goldendoodle from a breeder ethical? Are mixed breeds bad?

Very interesting question! Crossbred dogs often avoid many of the health conditions which may be associated with their respective pedigree breeds and so are often considered 'healthier'. Breeding is not an exact science however and the genetics of breeding two 50:50 crossbred dogs together could result in a wide range of pups from close to 100% either breed to 50-50 of the mixture!

I'm very sorry you recently lost your Golden! Please accept my condolences for your loss. Actually mix breed dogs can be healthier than purebred dogs. Purebred dogs can be prone to serious health diseases due to the breeding. For example, Goldens are prone to cancer. A mix breed will have a mix of genes, and may not be as likely to suffer from heritable diseases. I hope this helps!

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! This is a personal choice. Some people like certain breeds so they purchase a puppy from a breeder. Or want to be able to raise a puppy and not get a dog who has been living in many homes. And there are people who find it unethical to buy dogs when so many are available through rescues and shelters. You can't get wrapped up on what other people do or tell you to do. Good luck!

In-breeding over time can cause certain characteristic traits and genetic qualities (including defects) to be selected for that are undesirable. However it is unsure what exact characteristic traits will predominate in each individual puppy and to what degree. I think it is fair to ask if this line of pedigree has any genetic defects that you should be concerned about that could possibly pass on to Mabei, to make this breeder a bit more transparent in information and also hold them accountable for informing you as a concerned potential adoptee. Also another great tool is the DNA genetic testing (the blood test that is done through a vet, not the cheek swab one which is highly inaccurate) which will give you a list of genetic predispositions and abnormalities that Mabei currently has so that you are aware from the very beginning of any disease processes she will be vulnerable to developing later in life. In-breeding is not what we want to see done in any situation, because it creates all kinds of genetic nightmares in most situations and does not speak highly of this breeder in my professional opinion. I hope this helps and best wishes on your decision making when it comes to adopting this pet. Best wishes and take care.

Hi Lou! Yes, you are correct that there is a concern about getting a puppy from parents who are siblings, even half siblings. This increasing the risk of the dog having recessive genes expressed which can adversely affect their health. Siblings should never be bred to each other, and a responsible breeder would never allow that to happen. In my opinion, I would not get a puppy from this litter, and instead find a breeder who does not allow siblings to be bred to each other. Also make sure the breeder does health tests on the sire and dam to make sure that genetic diseases which are common in this breed of dog are not present, thus making the puppies as healthy as possible. Good luck, I hope this helps!

I would be concerned that this weight difference might result in puppies that are too large for Bella and that she could end up needing a c-section. She could also end up having fewer, larger puppies. I think you’re better off searching for a smaller male.

Here is an excellent article about breeding Labradoodles and health conditions for the breed: https://www.embracepetinsurance.com/dog-breeds/labradoodle I hope this helps and please feel free to post any additional questions.