Honestly, before you ever go out and pay money for one of these "designer" breeds, go check out your local shelter. Dogs of all shapes, sizes, and ages are turned in daily. You're likely to find a very grateful companion who will fit your lifestyle perfectly.

Agreed. Our rescued pup has been a wonderful addition to our family. And he didnt cost nearly as much as a "designer" dog

I was waiting for a Lab to show up on here with all the small breeds. What a magnificent breed! Truthfully there is nothing wrong with purchasing a dog from a good, responsible breeder. We've rescued dogs and purchased purebred Labs and ALL of them were fabulous dogs. It's important to rescue but it's also important to ensure that we maintain the breed standards and reward breeders who are reputable and maintain those standards. After all certain dogs were bred for their abilities (bomb sniffing, hunting, seeing eye, herding) and it's important to maintain that. Also, I don't think they were saying that Rachael Ray's dog is a Lab, I believe they were describing a lifestyle type and pairing the Lab with that lifestyle. Labrador Retriever's are incredible family pets and some of the most loving animals around. It's too bad that so many people purchase them without understanding the love and care that goes into helping them reach their potential. I disagree with the idea that rescued pets are the "best". All pets are wonderful family additions rescued or not. Those who purchase purebred dogs just need to understand the importance of spaying/neutering and helping out rescue organizations (including purebred rescues) whenever possible.

"You’re living in Austin with your Puggle....You’re living in Portland with your Labradoodle." This doesn't hold water. If you're trying to figure out which dog is 'right' for you, you want an adequate description of the general temperament of the breed. Because these dogs described are NOT purebred dogs, you run the risk of them inheriting all of the 'pug' characteristics and none of the 'beagle' characteristics. Or all of the poodle, none of the lab. Or vice versa. Or, if you really draw life's short straw, all of the bad qualities of both breeds and none of the good qualities of either. There's nothing wrong with mixed breed dogs--I have one myself. But please don't try to pretend they're a type, cutesy up the names, and lead people to make ill informed decisions that support poor breeding, overpopulation, and puppy mills' abuse and horrific conditions. Some excellent reading: http://www.canismajor.com/dog/poodogs.html and http://home.comcast.net/~NoPuppyMillsVA/Poo-dogs___Designer_Mutts/poo-dogs___designer_mutts.html

I love my pug!!

hmmm none of that describes us lol. We have a rescue pit and a pit puppy.

love my rescue- bagle (beagle/bassat hound). shes adorable, and is way better than a designer breed :)