If you have ever owed a cross breed or hybrid companion dog, it is no mystery as to why these dogs are so popular today!  Cross breeding is nothing new.  Over the centuries breeders have crossed a little of this and a little of that, let it settle, resulting in a recognized "Purebred".  In fact crossing breeds is hardly a modern development as this is how most now "pedigreed" breeds became. Did you know such beauties as the "Boston Terrier" are really a cross breed?  It was only in the late 19th century when dogs went from being families of animals to being treated as purebreds, largely by new organizations which created "licenses and papers" for what was they considered to be : the proper breeding of pedigrees.  Owning a Pedigreed dog was a sign of affluence and taste back then. With the breeding of more and more Pedigreed puppies fancy dogs soon became available to regular folk.  Fast forward to the end of the twentieth century and purebreds were no longer considered a status symbol. 

These days Crossbreed dogs or "Designer Dogs" may be trendsetters but they are by no means a novel idea and still follow in the same "paw prints" that their ancestors did. The difference today however, is that those dogs of the 19th century were bred by breeders amongst themselves and selected for desired characteristics generation after generation forming their own unique "pedigree".  Today's "Designer Dogs" are almost always a first generation cross of purebreds.

While many continue to hold on to the notion that their "pedigrees of today" are simply the best and only way to go, cross breed owners know that this is not always the case.  Cross breeds today are more than "purebred wannabe's"  and bring to a family a number of benefits as  loving, healthy companions.  Heredity and health concerns in crossbreeds follow genetic rules for non dominant genes. By doing so cross breeding (as was the theme of days gone by) widens the gene pool and allows for breeding that does not share the same recessive genes.  Your cross breed has potentially more genetic diversity.  A Cross Breed is always bred by carefully screening parents for any genetic or health problems.  Just because a puppy is a hybrid however does not mean it is immune from disorders.  Best breeding practices must still be maintained. The most ideal mixed breeds result from careful choices and are accomplished with the expectation to produce desirable physical and behavioral traits.

At HDD Inc. we appreciate and work most often with Bichon crosses.  The jaunty, playful, lovable, Bichon Frise is amongst the most ancient of breeds.  They are non-shedding and hypoallergenic with round dark eyes and a beautiful soft coat.  The zany chon mixes generally have a bubbly, sociable demeanor.  Bichon mixes prefer to be out playing with a football or  running the show in a circle of children .Of course they do the lap thing too as Bichons love attention and snuggles. When bred with other colorful family friendly breeds the Bichon mix makes a perfect hypoallergenic family companion.

Questions to ask?

Are references from a Veterinarian or past buyers available?

Yes.  Our USDA Licensed Veterinarian signs every health certificate from within the kennel of origin. These Veterinarians must inspect both the parents of each litter of puppies and the puppies at their kennel.  The premises are observed and must be kept to USDA standards for the Veterinarian to satisfy that the kennel and animals are healthy and well cared for.  Having the Veterinarian attend the kennel for all inspections satisfies the need to attend the kennel to ensure that your puppy and their parents are properly cared for.  Past buyers are always available to answer questions about the health and welfare of their puppy.

Where are the puppies raised?

The puppies are raised and properly weaned both in the kennel and when older family homes.  We recognize the need for early socialization with people and specifically children.  All of our breeders take care that our puppies are raised with outdoor play, human interaction and access to outdoor potty areas.  We continually receive comments from new puppy owners as to the sociability of our puppies and their quick "house training".

When can I get my puppy?

Puppies are available to go to their new homes only after they are 8 weeks of age and have been properly weaned and inspected.  Beware the breeder who allows a puppy to be taken from it's dam and litter mates before the age of 7-8 weeks. This can deprive the puppy of the essential canine social skills they need to learn. In addition very small puppies are susceptible to health issues at such a young age. Once our puppies arrive they are placed in "daycare's" {responsible homes} where they are socialized and training begins.  Puppies remain in these environments until they find new homes.

What should I look for in a puppy?

 Most puppies should be playful and engaging.  Occasionally you will find a puppy with a timid personality.  When this is noted we take extra care and time to assist with comfort and socialization of these puppies.  Their eyes, nose and ears should be free of dirt and discharge.  They should not show signs of diarrhea.  Make any sale contingent upon a Veterinarian inspection over the next 48 hours. You should have complete vaccination and worming records with the accompanying health inspection documentation with any new puppy.