Small Designer Dog Breeds A to Z – Complete Directory

Welcome to the Dogs Central Small Designer Dog Breeds Directory, your starting point for exploring popular small crossbred companion dogs. From Affenpoos and Cavachons to Shichons, Pomskies and Yorkiepoos, this directory brings together our growing collection of designer dog breed guides in one easy-to-browse resource.

Designer dogs are deliberately bred crosses between two established dog breeds. Some have been popular for decades, while others are relatively recent. Many were developed primarily as companion dogs, and a large proportion of today’s best-known designer breeds have a Poodle as one parent.

But a designer dog’s cute name doesn’t tell the whole story. Crossbred dogs can inherit different combinations of size, coat, temperament, activity level and health characteristics from either side of their family tree. That’s why every Dogs Central designer breed guide considers both parent breeds.

What Is a Designer Dog?

The term designer dog generally describes a deliberately bred cross between two established dog breeds. A Cavapoo, for example, has Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Poodle ancestry, while a Shichon combines the Shih Tzu and Bichon Frise.

These dogs are crossbreeds rather than standardized breeds in the traditional sense. That distinction matters because their characteristics can be less predictable than the catchy breed names sometimes suggest.

A Maltipoo doesn’t necessarily receive exactly half of every Maltese characteristic and half of every Poodle characteristic. One puppy may strongly favor one side of its ancestry, another may favor the other, and littermates can look and behave surprisingly differently.

For that reason, we encourage prospective owners to research both parent breeds before choosing any designer dog.

Learn More in Our Complete Designer Dog Breeds Guide →

Designer Dog Names Can Be Confusing

Designer dog names are informal and aren’t controlled by a universal naming authority. The same cross may therefore be known by more than one name.

For example, a Poochon may also be called a Bichpoo because both names describe a Bichon Frise × Poodle cross. Dogs Central treats these as alternate names for the same cross rather than pretending they are separate breeds.

You may encounter other spelling variations when researching designer dogs as well. Our directory uses one primary name wherever possible and notes useful alternate names to make finding reliable information easier.

A–Z Directory of Small Designer Dog Breeds

Choose a designer dog below to visit its individual Dogs Central guide. Each complete breed guide is designed to explore potential temperament, size, exercise requirements, grooming, training, health considerations and suitability for different households.

A

Affenpoo

Parent breeds: Affenpinscher × Poodle

The Affenpoo combines the bold, curious Affenpinscher with the intelligent Poodle. Usually small and full of personality, these dogs may appeal to people who enjoy bright, entertaining companions with a slightly mischievous streak.

Explore the Affenpoo Breed Guide →

B

Bichpoo

Parent breeds: Bichon Frise × Poodle
Also known as: Poochon

Bichpoo is an alternate name for the Poochon, a Bichon Frise × Poodle cross. Rather than treating the two names as different dogs, Dogs Central covers both in our Poochon guide.

Explore the Poochon (Bichpoo) Breed Guide →

BoShih

Parent breeds: Boston Terrier × Shih Tzu

The BoShih combines the lively, people-oriented Boston Terrier with the companion-bred Shih Tzu. Individuals can vary considerably in coat, facial structure, energy and temperament depending on which parent they favor.

Explore the BoShih Breed Guide →

C

Cavachon

Parent breeds: Cavalier King Charles Spaniel × Bichon Frise

The Cavachon combines two affectionate companion breeds and is often prized for its friendly nature, manageable size and soft, fluffy appearance. Regular coat care should be expected.

Explore the Cavachon Breed Guide →

Cavapoo

Parent breeds: Cavalier King Charles Spaniel × Poodle

One of the best-known small Poodle crosses, the Cavapoo is often affectionate, intelligent and highly people-oriented. These dogs generally thrive when included in everyday family life.

Explore the Cavapoo Breed Guide →

Cheagle

Parent breeds: Chihuahua × Beagle

The Cheagle combines two very different dogs: the tiny, alert Chihuahua and the scent-driven Beagle. The result can be an engaging little companion with plenty of curiosity, personality and energy.

Explore the Cheagle Breed Guide →

Chi-Poo

Parent breeds: Chihuahua × Poodle

The Chi-Poo combines Chihuahua personality with Poodle intelligence in a very small package. Size, coat and temperament can vary, making knowledge of both parent breeds especially important.

Explore the Chi-Poo Breed Guide →

Chipin

Parent breeds: Chihuahua × Miniature Pinscher

Tiny but rarely timid in personality, the Chipin combines two alert, energetic little breeds. Chipins can make devoted companions for people who appreciate confident small dogs.

Explore the Chipin Breed Guide →

Chiweenie

Parent breeds: Chihuahua × Dachshund

The enormously recognizable Chiweenie combines Chihuahua and Dachshund ancestry. These little dogs may be affectionate, comical and strongly attached to their people, with plenty of character packed into a small body.

Explore the Chiweenie Breed Guide →

Chorkie

Parent breeds: Chihuahua × Yorkshire Terrier

The Chorkie combines two tiny breeds known for confidence and devotion. These dogs can be lively, affectionate and surprisingly assertive despite their diminutive size.

Explore the Chorkie Breed Guide →

Cockapoo

Parent breeds: Cocker Spaniel × Poodle

The Cockapoo is one of the longest-established popular designer crosses. Many are cheerful, intelligent and active companions, although size can vary according to the Cocker Spaniel and Poodle used in the breeding.

Explore the Cockapoo Breed Guide →

Corgipoo

Parent breeds: Corgi × Poodle

The Corgipoo combines Poodle intelligence with the distinctive herding ancestry of the Corgi. Prospective owners should expect more than a fluffy lap dog: exercise, mental stimulation and training can be important.

Explore the Corgipoo Breed Guide →

Cotonpoo

Parent breeds: Coton de Tulear × Poodle

The Cotonpoo combines two intelligent, companion-oriented dogs and is generally small, fluffy and people-focused. Coat care can be substantial regardless of shedding level.

Explore the Cotonpoo Breed Guide →

D

Dorkie

Parent breeds: Dachshund × Yorkshire Terrier

The amusingly named Dorkie combines two small breeds with genuine hunting and terrier ancestry. These dogs can be affectionate companions while retaining plenty of curiosity, independence and determination.

Explore the Dorkie Breed Guide →

F

Frug

Parent breeds: French Bulldog × Pug

The Frug combines two compact, charismatic companion breeds. Because both parents can have shortened facial structure, responsible breeding and careful attention to breathing, heat tolerance and overall health are particularly important.

Explore the Frug Breed Guide →

H

Havachon

Parent breeds: Havanese × Bichon Frise

The Havachon combines two cheerful companion breeds. Many are affectionate, sociable little dogs that enjoy being closely involved with their families.

Explore the Havachon Breed Guide →

Havapoo

Parent breeds: Havanese × Poodle

The Havapoo pairs the cheerful Havanese with the clever Poodle. These small dogs are often sociable and trainable, although their coats typically require regular maintenance.

Explore the Havapoo Breed Guide →

J

Jack Chi

Parent breeds: Jack Russell Terrier × Chihuahua

The Jack Chi combines two small dogs that can have enormous personalities. This cross may be energetic, alert, clever and considerably more athletic than its compact size suggests.

Explore the Jack Chi Breed Guide →

Jackapoo

Parent breeds: Jack Russell Terrier × Poodle

The Jackapoo combines two highly intelligent, energetic dogs. This can be a fun and trainable little companion for an active household, but shouldn’t be selected simply for a cute, curly appearance.

Explore the Jackapoo Breed Guide →

Jackshund

Parent breeds: Jack Russell Terrier × Dachshund

The Jackshund combines terrier tenacity with Dachshund hunting ancestry. Expect a potentially energetic, curious and determined small dog rather than a conventional lap dog.

Explore the Jackshund Breed Guide →

L

Lhasapoo

Parent breeds: Lhasa Apso × Poodle

The Lhasapoo combines the independent, watchful Lhasa Apso with the intelligent Poodle. These small dogs may be affectionate with their families while retaining a more self-assured personality than some companion crosses.

Explore the Lhasapoo Breed Guide →

M

Malchi

Parent breeds: Maltese × Chihuahua

The Malchi combines the companion-bred Maltese with the tiny but confident Chihuahua. Individuals may range from cuddly lap dogs to lively little watchdogs—or offer a bit of both.

Explore the Malchi Breed Guide →

Malshi

Parent breeds: Maltese × Shih Tzu

The Malshi combines two classic companion breeds and is often small, affectionate and adaptable. Its fluffy coat requires regular care, and prospective owners should understand the health considerations associated with Shih Tzu ancestry.

Explore the Malshi Breed Guide →

Maltichon

Parent breeds: Maltese × Bichon Frise

The Maltichon combines two small white companion breeds known for their affectionate nature and distinctive coats. These dogs may suit people looking for a sociable little companion and willing to commit to regular grooming.

Explore the Maltichon Breed Guide →

Maltipoo

Parent breeds: Maltese × Poodle

The Maltipoo is one of the most familiar small designer dogs. Usually compact and people-oriented, these dogs can be affectionate, playful and intelligent companions with significant grooming needs.

Explore the Maltipoo Breed Guide →

Mauxie

Parent breeds: Maltese × Dachshund

The Mauxie combines the companion-oriented Maltese with the distinctive Dachshund. Body shape, coat and personality can vary considerably depending on which side of the family an individual favors.

Explore the Mauxie Breed Guide →

P

Peekapoo

Parent breeds: Pekingese × Poodle

The Peekapoo is a long-known small Poodle cross combining the dignified Pekingese with the intelligent Poodle. Facial structure, coat and temperament deserve particular attention when selecting a puppy.

Explore the Peekapoo Breed Guide →

Pomapoo

Parent breeds: Pomeranian × Poodle

The Pomapoo combines Pomeranian animation with Poodle intelligence. These tiny dogs can be bright, entertaining companions but may also be vocal and require more mental stimulation than their size suggests.

Explore the Pomapoo Breed Guide →

Pomchi

Parent breeds: Pomeranian × Chihuahua

The Pomchi combines two famous toy breeds and can be extremely small. Many are affectionate and spirited, but their delicate size makes thoughtful handling and supervision important.

Explore the Pomchi Breed Guide →

Pomsky

Parent breeds: Pomeranian × Siberian Husky

The striking Pomsky combines two dramatically different breeds. Adult size, coat and temperament can vary significantly, and prospective owners should understand that Husky ancestry may bring substantial exercise, training and enrichment needs.

Explore the Pomsky Breed Guide →

Poochon

Parent breeds: Bichon Frise × Poodle
Also known as: Bichpoo

The Poochon combines the cheerful Bichon Frise with the intelligent Poodle. Often fluffy, affectionate and sociable, this popular small cross generally requires substantial coat maintenance.

Explore the Complete Poochon/Bichpoo Breed Guide →

Pugapoo

Parent breeds: Pug × Poodle

The Pugapoo combines two very different breeds, so coat, facial structure, activity level and temperament can vary widely. Responsible breeding should place particular emphasis on health and functional anatomy.

Explore the Pugapoo Breed Guide →

Puggle

Parent breeds: Pug × Beagle

The Puggle became one of the best-known designer dogs by combining the Pug with the Beagle. These dogs can be friendly and entertaining, while Beagle ancestry may contribute energy, scent-driven behavior and an independent streak.

Explore the Puggle Breed Guide →

S

Schnoodle

Parent breeds: Schnauzer × Poodle

The Schnoodle combines two highly intelligent breeds and can be an energetic, trainable companion. Size varies considerably according to the sizes of the Schnauzer and Poodle parents, so not every Schnoodle is a small dog.

Explore the Schnoodle Breed Guide →

Shichon

Parent breeds: Shih Tzu × Bichon Frise
Also known as: Zuchon, Teddy Bear Dog

The Shichon is one of the crosses most strongly associated with the “teddy bear dog” description. Many are affectionate, adaptable companions with soft coats that require regular grooming.

Explore the Shichon Breed Guide →

Shih-Poo

Parent breeds: Shih Tzu × Poodle

The Shih-Poo combines the companion-bred Shih Tzu with the intelligent Poodle. These small dogs can adapt well to many homes, but coat care and the possible influence of Shih Tzu facial structure deserve consideration.

Explore the Shih-Poo Breed Guide →

Shorkie

Parent breeds: Shih Tzu × Yorkshire Terrier

The Shorkie combines a traditional companion breed with a tiny terrier. Many are devoted little dogs with plenty of personality and a strong desire to remain close to their people.

Explore the Shorkie Breed Guide →

Snorkie

Parent breeds: Miniature Schnauzer × Yorkshire Terrier

The Snorkie brings together two alert, intelligent small breeds with terrier heritage. This cross may be lively, curious and trainable, with grooming needs influenced by both parents.

Explore the Snorkie Breed Guide →

Y

Yorkiepoo

Parent breeds: Yorkshire Terrier × Poodle

The Yorkiepoo combines Yorkshire Terrier confidence with Poodle intelligence. Tiny, lively and often highly entertaining, this cross can be a great companion for people who appreciate a small dog with a big personality.

Explore the Yorkiepoo Breed Guide →

Yorktese

Parent breeds: Yorkshire Terrier × Maltese

The Yorktese combines two very small breeds with long histories as cherished companions. Also sometimes described as a Morkie, this cross can be affectionate, spirited and closely bonded to its family.

Explore the Yorktese Breed Guide →

How to Choose Between Similar Designer Dogs

With so many combinations, it’s easy to become overwhelmed. Instead of starting with appearance, narrow your choices according to the characteristics that will affect everyday life.

Consider adult size. “Small” covers a surprisingly wide range. A tiny Pomchi and a sturdier Cockapoo can both appear in lists of small designer dogs but offer very different ownership experiences.

Consider energy. A Jackapoo or Jack Chi may need considerably more activity and mental stimulation than someone expects from such a small dog. Companion crosses such as the Shichon or Malshi may be better suited to less athletic households, although every individual still needs exercise.

Consider grooming. Many Poodle, Bichon, Maltese, Havanese and Shih Tzu crosses require frequent brushing and professional grooming. Low shedding should never be confused with low maintenance.

Consider barking. Alert toy breeds and terriers can contribute a tendency toward vocal behavior. This can be especially important for apartment and condominium residents.

Consider independence. Dachshunds, terriers, Beagles and some other parent breeds were developed to work with a degree of independence. Their designer offspring won’t necessarily behave like easygoing lap dogs.

Consider companionship needs. Many of these dogs were created from breeds that thrive on close human contact. A small designer dog may not be an ideal choice for a household where everyone is routinely away for ten hours a day.

Why Poodle Mixes Dominate the Designer Dog World

Poodles appear throughout this directory: Cavapoo, Maltipoo, Cockapoo, Pomapoo, Havapoo, Poochon, Chi-Poo, Jackapoo, Lhasapoo, Peekapoo, Schnoodle and many more.

There are understandable reasons for their popularity. Poodles are intelligent, athletic and trainable, come in multiple sizes, and have a distinctive coat that sheds differently from many other canine coats.

But crossing another breed with a Poodle does not guarantee a nonshedding coat, hypoallergenic dog, easy temperament or healthy puppy.

A Poodle-cross puppy can inherit characteristics from either parent, which is why reputable breeders need to understand and health-test both sides of the pedigree.

Finding a Responsibly Bred Designer Dog

Designer dogs have become commercially valuable, which unfortunately makes them attractive to puppy mills, high-volume sellers and breeders focused primarily on fashionable colors, unusually tiny sizes or marketing-friendly names.

A responsible breeder should be able to explain why the particular cross was chosen, discuss the temperament and health of both parents, describe how puppies are raised and socialized, and provide appropriate health-testing information.

Be cautious about guaranteed adult weights, guaranteed “hypoallergenic” coats, unusually tiny “teacup” puppies, constant availability of many different designer crosses, or breeders unwilling to discuss health problems associated with the parent breeds.

Can Designer Dogs Be Adopted?

Yes. Designer dogs sometimes enter shelters and rescues just like other dogs. They may also become available when loving owners experience changes in health, housing, finances, family circumstances or their ability to provide appropriate care.

Try local shelters, all-breed rescue organizations and rescues associated with either parent breed. For Poodle crosses, for example, Poodle and Doodle rescue organizations may be worth exploring.

Adult adoption can actually remove some of the uncertainty involved in choosing a designer puppy. With a mature dog, adult size, coat type, activity level and many aspects of temperament are already apparent.

Frequently Asked Questions About Designer Dog Breeds

How many designer dog breeds are there?

There is no official fixed number. Designer-dog names are informal, and many different crosses exist. New names also appear as particular crosses become popular. Dogs Central focuses on established and commonly encountered small designer crosses rather than attempting to name every possible combination.

Are designer dogs real breeds?

Designer dogs are generally deliberate crosses between established breeds rather than standardized breeds recognized in the same way as long-established purebred dogs. Some crosses have been bred for many generations, while others remain highly variable.

Why does the same designer dog sometimes have two names?

There is no universal authority controlling designer-dog naming. Different breeders and communities may therefore use different names for the same cross. Poochon and Bichpoo, for example, both describe a Bichon Frise × Poodle.

Are designer dogs healthier than purebred dogs?

Not automatically. Greater genetic diversity can offer advantages, but crossbred dogs can still inherit health conditions from either parent. Appropriate health testing remains important.

Are Poodle mixes hypoallergenic?

No Poodle cross should be guaranteed hypoallergenic. Coat and shedding characteristics vary, and people with dog allergies may react to allergens associated with dander and saliva as well as hair.

Which designer dog is best for an apartment?

Many small designer dogs can adapt well to apartment living, but size alone doesn’t determine suitability. Barking, exercise needs, separation tolerance and temperament can matter more than a few pounds of body weight.

Which designer dogs are best for families?

Cavapoos, Cockapoos, Cavachons, Havachons, Shichons and other sociable companion crosses may suit many families, but the age of the children, individual dog’s temperament and physical size all matter. Very tiny dogs may be vulnerable to accidental injury around young children.

Which designer dog should I choose?

Choose according to lifestyle rather than popularity. Compare exercise requirements, grooming, adult size, trainability, vocal tendencies, companionship needs and the characteristics of both parent breeds before deciding.

Start With Our Top 10 Designer Dogs

If 39 different crosses feel like too many choices, our main guide takes a closer look at ten of the most appealing and popular small designer dogs and explains how they differ in everyday life.

Explore the Small Designer Dog Breeds Guide & Top 10 →

Continue Exploring Dogs Central

• Small Designer Dog Breeds Guide
• Small Dog Breed Guides
• Best Small Dogs for Families
• Best Small Dogs for First-Time Owners
• Best Small Dogs for Apartments