Choosing between a purebred or a mixed-breed dog can be tough. However, if you take the time to research the dog you're considering that will make your decision. Also, knowing what type of personality and what type of dog will fit your family's needs is also key. Here are some pros and cons to help you decide:
The fight for superiority and bragging rights between owners of purebreds and mixed-breed dogs is nothing new, and both sides have compelling arguments for why one choice might be better than the other. Which dogs reign supreme? We went to experts in each camp for their professional opinions.
What Is a Purebred?
According to Dr. Emily Weiss, senior director of research and development for the ASPCA, dog breeds encompass a unique genetic makeup that can be consistently reproduced. Jessica Rice D’Amato, PR director for the American Kennel Club (AKC), notes that any dog whose parents belong to the same breed is considered a purebred dog.
The Pros of a Purebred
For breed fanciers, consistency and predictability are key.
Historically, dog breeds had a purpose for which individual characteristics were optimal: the long body and short legs of the Dachshund, for example, were well-suited for their jobs hunting badgers, while the heavy coat and large webbed feet made the Newfie a good worker in the cold marshes of Newfoundland.
As modern lifestyles have evolved, so have new tasks that leverage the consistent qualities of the centuries-old purebred lines.
Purebreds are also used in search and rescue, trained to help those with vision and hearing impairments, and utilized as assistance dogs for individuals with autism or PTSD.”
The Benefits of a Mixed Breed
For many people, adopting a homeless pet, as opposed to purchasing a pet, is a high priority. According to the PetSmart Charities 2014 Shelter Pet Report, pet adoption is on the rise, with 66 percent of people considering a pet saying they would adopt from a shelter or rescue rather than purchase. Though many shelters and rescues have purebred dogs in addition to mixed-breed pets in need of homes, shelters that focus on the individual dog instead of the breed characteristics have found great success in placing mixed-breed dogs with families.
And what about hybrid vigor? The idea that mixed-breed dogs have fewer health problems because of a diversified gene pool? The jury’s still out on that, but the general consensus is that mixed-breed dogs are no more or less likely to have health issues than their purebred counterparts.
How Should You Choose a Dog?
Both Weiss and D’Amato believe families should think very carefully about what pet would best fit their family’s needs. “ A dog is a big commitment, and families should be honest about what really works best for their lifestyle,” D’Amato says. “There’s a breed out there for everyone; you just need to do your research.”
Now that you know the benefits of purebreds and mixed-breeds, deciding which doggy is right for you should be a lot easier. Just remember that at the end of the day, doggies just want to be loved unconditionally!
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