Mongrel - Advantages and Drawbacks

Advantages and Drawbacks

The mature appearance and behavior of purebred puppies may be more predictable than that of mixed-breeds. With purebred dogs, genetic variations occur within a narrow gene pool, and a reputable breeder has a fair estimation of what type of offspring a given pair will produce. Still, there is considerable variation of appearance and personality within breeds. For example, two champion sheep-herding Border Collies might produce offspring with no interest in sheep herding.

Some trainers believe mixed-breeds exhibit higher average intelligence than purebreds, but others believe mixes are generally no more intelligent than purebreds. Both sets feature slow learners and dogs with high learning capacity alike.

Studies that have been done in the area of health show that mixed-breeds on average are both healthier and longer-lived than their purebred relations. This is because current accepted breeding practices within the pedigreed community results in a reduction in genetic diversity, and can result in physical characteristics that lead to health issues.

Studies have shown that cross-bred dogs have a number of desirable reproductive traits. Scott and Fuller found that cross-bred dogs were superior mothers compared to purebred mothers, producing more milk and giving better care. These advantages led to a decreased mortality in the offspring of cross-bred dogs.

Not all dog owners appreciate mixed-breed dogs. Some owners value a dog's pedigree as a status symbol and, therefore, have no use for mixed-breed dogs; others appreciate or have an emotional attachment to the physical or behavioral traits of certain breeds; still others erroneously believe that a pedigree means a dog will have superior personality traits and health.

While purebred dogs exhibit a narrow range of appearance within their breed, mixed-breed dogs often exhibit unique appearances. People who enjoy mixed-breeds often value their one-of-a-kind appearance and characteristics. Local animal shelters adopt out dogs of both purebred and mixed ancestry, emphasizing each dog's personality and suitability as a companion for each potential owner's lifestyle.