Some dogs are named for their coat colors. Others are named for the people who originally bred them. Yet, some dogs (especially mixed-breed dogs) are named for a combination of their mother and father’s breed. For example, Chiweenies are named for Chihuahuas and wiener dogs. Poodle mixes have one parent’s breed with -oodle tacked on the end.
Here, you can meet some mixed-breed dogs with unique names. At the end, we’ll even share how you can come up with a name for your mixed-breed dog, too!
1. Pitsky
A Pitsky is a pit bull/Husky mix. While this mixed breed varies from dog to dog, they generally sport striking blue eyes contrasted with a square jaw and smooth coat. Some even have heterochromia, meaning they have two different-colored eyes.
Pit bulls and Huskies have many commonalities. For instance, with proper socialization, they make loving, loyal companions. They also have high prey drives, meaning that a Pitsky may chase small animals or make frequent escape attempts.
Because of the stigma surrounding pit bulls and their mixes, many of these dogs end up in shelters. So, if you want a Pitsky, you probably wouldn’t go through a breeder, but rather, through a reputable rescue organization or shelter.
2. Bassetoodle
There’s no denying that Poodle mixes have become popular over the last decade. However, many dog owners aren’t prepared for the grooming needs, intelligence, and high energy of a standard Poodle. Enter the Bassetoodle, a mix of the sharp-witted Poodle combined with the easygoing nature of a Basset Hound.
The Bassetoodle is a low-to-the-ground dog with soft, almost hair-like fur. Owners must keep their bellies trimmed to avoid picking up dirt and getting tangled. Unlike Poodles, which can measure 24 inches at the shoulder, the Bassetoodle is much smaller, making them ideal apartment dogs.
Many owners are endeared to these dogs because of their braying, howl-like bark. Both Basset Hounds and Poodles were bred as hunting companions, meaning they enjoy spending time with people who have activities for them to complete.
3. Chiweenie
The Chiweenie is a comical, self-important mix between a Chihuahua and Dachshund. They’ve become increasingly popular designer dogs over the years. Breeders wanted the antics of the Dachshund without the back problems these short-legged dogs come with.
There are many physical variations between Chiweenies in a single litter. Some look like long, short Chihuahuas, while others have more pointed snouts. It’s important that with any low-to-the-ground dog, owners must offer portioned mealtimes. These dogs are prone to developing obesity, and make no mistake: they’ll never turn down a treat!
4. Chusky
No, a Chusky is not a Chihuahua/Husky mix. It’s actually a Chow Chow/Husky mix. These dogs typically inherit the Chow parent’s golden coat, sometimes sporting blue or brown eyes (or both). Sometimes resembling a giant Pomeranian, these dogs need socialization from a young age to curb their prey drive and doggy escape attempts.
Chuskies are known for being “one-person” dogs, and they take their jobs as watchdogs very seriously. Because both Chows and Huskies have high prey drives, you may think twice about adopting a Chusky if you have a cat or small animals in the home.
Many people are drawn to Chuskies because they have fluffy, soft double coats. These dogs make great pillows and naptime companions!
5. Puggle
A Puggle is a Pug/Beagle mix. They’re a relatively new designer dog, originating in the 1990s. Breeders sought to elongate the Pug’s flat face, while also maintaining the dog’s charming (and almost mischievous) nature. By mixing Pugs with Beagles, breeders aimed to reduce respiratory problems.
The Puggle is a playful, affectionate companion that can weigh anywhere from 15 to 30 pounds. While they’re not nearly as popular as Poodle mixes, in 2005, these dogs accounted for the most crossbreed dog sales in the United States.
6. Shorkie
A Shorkie is a Shih Tzu/Yorkshire Terrier Mix. These small yet bold dogs generally inherit the Yorkie’s black and tan coloring, while having the shorter, hair-like fur of the Shih Tzu. Because of their low shedding, they make good dogs for people who have allergies or don’t want dog hair all over their clothing.
Shorkies are well-sought-after dogs. Sadly, this means that many puppy mills crank out these dogs without doing proper genetic testing. If you’re looking to purchase a Shorkie, ask to see the puppy’s parent’s veterinary records. An ethical breeder will readily have this information on hand. Shorkie sellers that don’t vet potential buyers or have dozens of puppies available for purchase should be avoided––unless you’re prepared to deal with some health concerns down the road.
7. Borador
Looking for an outgoing dog breed to go on adventures? Look no further than a Borador, a Border Collie/Labrador Retriever mix. These outgoing dogs love going on hikes, runs—anything outside. They’re also very intelligent, meaning they require mental stimulation through puzzles and other interactive games.
A Borador typically inherits the Labrador Retriever’s body and the Border Collie’s black-and-white markings. Some have the trademark “mask,” adding another level of mischief to these inquisitive, sometimes sneaky dogs.
Create a Name for Your Mixed-Breed Dog!
If you have a mixed-breed dog, you can create their own breed name based on a few factors:
- Their parents’ breeds. If you know the parents of your dog, you can combine their names! For instance, if you have a Schnauzer/Husky mix, you can call them a “Schanuhusky.”
- Physical appearance. You can also base your dog’s breed name based on its physical characteristics. Imagine a German Shepherd mixed with a Golden Retriever. If the dog has a gold coat, you could call it a Golden German Shepherd.
- Related themes or concepts. Look for themes or concepts related to the parent breeds and use them to brainstorm name ideas. For instance, if your dog is a mix between a Chihuahua and a Mexican Hairless Dog, you could call them a Mexican Hairless Chihuahua.
The fun part about adopting a mixed-breed dog is that you never know what you’re going to get. You may even wait until you understand your dog’s personality to give them a new moniker!
