All of our pups are 1st generation (F1) crossbreeds.
We only breed 1st generation pups due to the puppies consistently displaying an even mix of the two breeds and due to the excellent health of a 1st generation pup.
A common problem amongst purebred dogs is genetic conditions being passed on from one generation to the next.
1st generation crossbreeding takes advantage of a phenomenon known as hybrid vigour/ heterosis – which is the increase in biological fitness in the 1st generation offspring of two genetically different parents.
2nd, 3rd and 4th generation crosses will have a double ups of certain genes.
Due to the larger concentration of those genes there is a higher chance of inherited congenital health problems coming through, less disease resistance and a shorter lifespan.
What is the difference between a 1st Generation Cross versus 2nd, 3rd, 4th etc?
A 1st generation pup is the offspring of the cross between – 2 genetically different dogs.
So a 1st generation Mini Retriever is the cross between a King Charles Cavalier and a Golden Retriever.
A 1st generation Cavoodle is the cross between a King Charles Cavalier and a Poodle.
A 1st generation Groodle is the cross between a Poodle and a Golden Retriever.
2nd, 3rd and 4th Generation pups are a cross where the same breed is part of the cross.
So for example a 2nd generation F2 is a cross between a Mini Retriever and a Mini Retriever.
A 2nd generation F1b is a cross between a Mini Retriever (which is half Golden Retriever) and a Golden Retriever
OR a cross between a Mini Retriever (which is half Cavalier) and a Cavalier
2nd, 3rd and 4th Generation crosses will have double ups of certain genes and so are at risk of inherited congenital health problems, less disease resistance and a shorter lifespan.
Hill Top Family Pups 