One of the favorite arguments in the dog world is this: "Which are better, purebred breeds or mixed breed dogs?"
And the answer is -- "Both."
There are as many preferences as there are owners. Many swear by and only own purebred dogs. Others, claiming everything from healthfulness to social standing, prefer mixed breed dogs. The truth is this: both kinds of dogs have their share of advantages and disadvantages. What matters when all is said and done, is that whatever dog you select, make sure they fit in with the family and lives a long, healthy life.
Mixed breed dogs (known by names such as "mutt", "cur", "crossbreed", or "mongrel") are without pedigree. Often they are the outcome of a purebred female being bred by an unknown interloping male dog (purebred or not) and no one has any idea what the outcome will look like, what health issues they may have, their temperament, and not even what color they might be. Even with a litter of mixed breed dogs in hand, you cannot truly tell much about them until they are grown.
That is one of the problems of getting mixed breed dogs as puppies. If you buy a Labrador Retriever puppy, you have a good idea what you are getting. The same goes for a Collie, a Beagle, or a Boxer. In fact, that is one of the attractions of purebred dogs is that they do breed true, most of the time, to a standard. In short, they are known quantities.
The opposite is true of mixed breed dogs, especially if you have no idea of what the parentage might be. You hope that mixed breed dogs get the best of both parents, but it is sometimes tough to tell until after they are home with you for a while.
Still, one of the hottest trends in the pet industry now is the creation of so called designer dogs, crosses between two breeds, often including a Poodle. Everywhere you see advertised dogs called Labradoodles (Labrador and Poodle) or Yorkidooles (Yorkshire Terrier and Poodle). There is a long list. These are mixed breed dogs being presented as a breed, which they are not. The smart buyer is aware of that before buying one.
Be aware the mixed breed dogs, even ones with cute new names and some marketing hype, cannot be registered with the American Kennel Club (AKC). However, there are several organizations with open arms for mixed breed dogs. Heading the list is the Mixed Breed Dog Club of America, around since 1978, which requires all member dogs to have been spayed or neutered. The U.S. Dog Agility Association welcomes mixed breed dogs, and there even is the Mixed Breed Obedience Registry or non-purebreds. Also, the AKC's Canine Good Citizen program is likewise open to mixed breed dogs.
Whether your dog has a long and impressive pedigree or you rescued a total stranger from your local shelter, the most important thing to remember is to be a responsible pet owner. Good veterinary care is a must for a mutt or a purebred. Proper care and feeding is also important, and you will find mixed breed dogs can return your affection as well as a purebred.
