Purebred vs. Mixed Breed
Purebred vs. Mixed Breed
Angela Rowlings/Associated Press
A Purebred? Although any dog is in part an unknown quantity, purebred dogs are bred to preserve and pronounce physical and behavioral traits. Therefore, almost everything about them can be predetermined — from their potential size and temperament to their life expectancy. While this is usually a good thing — for instance, you're always guaranteed that thick, luxurious coat with a Shih Tzu, and you can be certain that your Doberman will be a great running companion — it can also accentuate certain undesirable traits and increase a dog's tendency toward hereditary disease. If you respect the natural behavioral tendencies of your purebred, and make certain that the dog you choose doesn't come from a closely inbred litter, you should avoid most problems. A vet, animal shelter staff member, kennel club member, respected dog breeder, or good book can help you identify some of the more common problems with different breeds.
A Mixed Breed? The mixed-breed dogs typically found at pounds or animal shelters are of uncertain or unknown parentage, but they usually tend to be intelligent, loving family pets. Of course, there's no real way of knowing how a mixed-breed puppy will shape up in terms of either appearance or temperament when he first comes home. The fate of crossbreed dogs — the offspring of two different purebred dogs — is usually easier to predict, but even this is no guarantee. Mixed-breeds are usually cheaper to buy than purebreds, and are more resistant to many of the health problems to which purebred dogs are prone. The more moderately sized mutt can usually sidestep the hip dysplasia that plagues many larger breeds such as Rottweilers. When selecting a mixed-breed dog, your best bet is to ask the shelter staff or litter owner if they have noted anything unusual about the behavior of your first choice. If so, move on the next candidate.
Don't choose a purebred dog just to follow a trend. Many mixed-breed dogs are in greater need of homes, since purebred dogs have a higher perceived status in today's society. No matter what your choice, make sure that the seller is reputable.
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