Are you waffling between a pedigreed poodle and a friendly mutt? Here’s help sorting though the pros and cons of mixed-breed and purebred dogs.
The benefits of purebreds
"Purebred" simply means that your dog’s ancestors all come from the same breed. Often these dogs have been selectively bred to enhance certain characteristics such as herding instincts, intelligence, hunting skills, size, or coat appearance. Purebred dogs who are registered with a breed registry come with pedigree documentation that tells about your pet’s lineage.
The main advantage of choosing a purebred is that they’re more predictable; you’ll know more about your pet’s personality and physical characteristics before you bring her home. Thoroughly research potential breeders and ask for a tour of the breeding facilities to ensure your dog has been raised in optimum conditions.
You’ll likely get the chance to meet her parents or siblings, which can give you more insight into your dog’s appearance and demeanor. If the doggy family reunion seems like fun, that’s a good sign.
Problems with purebreds
Selective breeding has its downsides, and genetic problems have cropped up in certain breeds. For example, some breeds tend to develop particular behavioral or medical problems, including nervousness, aggression, deafness, or hip dysplasia.
To avoid problems, research your favorite breeds carefully and work with a reputable breeder. Ask the breeder if the puppy’s parents are healthy, how old the pup’s grandparents lived to be, and if any relatives died of diseases common to the breed.
Another drawback: Some untrained breeders care only about making a profit and produce dogs without proper knowledge of breed standards and without considering the dogs’ health. Again, finding a reputable breeder is the key. Your veterinarian can recommend breeders in your area.
The benefits of a mixed-breed dog
Don’t forget about mixed-breed dogs in your quest for a canine companion! Mixed-breed dogs cost less—often they’re free—and are readily available. Best of all, mixed-breed dogs are less likely to inherit the genetic diseases found in purebreds, which can mean a healthier and more sociable pet. And they are unique: No other dog will look exactly like yours. But most important, mixed-breed dogs need you.
Most shelter dogs are mixed breeds, and there are plenty of these good-natured pets who need loving homes. People who adopt pets from shelters often discover they’ve chosen incredibly devoted dogs who are eager to please. And everyone who adopts a shelter dog walks away knowing he or she may have saved a pet from an untimely death.
Problems with mixed breeds
The biggest disadvantage of a mixed-breed dog is that you won’t know much about her parents, especially their temperament and health. However, this doesn’t mean you’re getting a mystery mutt.
Look closely at the shape of her ears, face, tail, and chest for clues to her lineage. Knowing what breeds she comes from can help you understand her potential personality, size, and appearance. Also watch her interact with other people and pets. Visit FetchDog.com’s Adoption Center to learn more about adopting a dog.
Choosing a dog can be very exciting. Spend some time thinking about what you really want from your new dog—then have fun picking the perfect pet!
