Mutts, or mixed breeds, are among the most popular dog breeds! Mutts can be any mix of dog breeds and there are some real benefits to adopting a mutt. Today, we’re going to share five reasons why a mixed breed dog may be perfect for you!
1. Adopting saves a life
It feels good to do good. It’s just that simple! So if you’re in the market for a dog, why not adopt one from an animal shelter? If you’ve ever rescued a dog, you know it’s true what they say—these dogs really do know that you’ve rescued them.
2. Mutts have fewer health issues
When you adopt a mutt, you get the benefits of both breeds! Dogs that are purebreds are more prone to genetic diseases that are the result of interbreeding, such as hypothyroidism, hip dysplasia, or other genetic defects. Mutts are less likely to experience an inherited disorder. On top of these health benefits, mutts are generally known to have better temperaments and higher intelligence. This doesn’t mean a mutt will always be in perfect health, but you have less of a chance of them developing disorders that result from interbreeding. Of course, you can also aid in preventing illnesses with regular vaccinations and annual exams.
3. Adoption is cheaper than purchasing
Have you ever seen a Bernese Mountain Dog puppy? Go ahead and Google it. We’ll wait. Seriously, utterly, and ridiculously adorable, right? Now Google the price. Yup. You can expect to pay between $800-$2,000 for one of these pups. That's just one example of how expensive purebred dogs are! While we understand that everyone has a favorite breed, you’ll save hundreds if not thousands of dollars if you find a mutt that shares that breed's visible traits.
4. Mutt puppies are a wonderful mystery
Did you wait to find out the gender of your human babies? Do you love a good surprise party? Do you enjoy playing the lottery? If you answered “yes” to these questions, chances are you'll love a mutt puppy! How big will they get? Will they have pointy or floppy ears? Will they grow into their paws? It can be fun to watch your mutt puppy grow up! If the suspense is too much, you can always partake in a pet DNA test to find out just what your mutt is made of. No matter what you find out, your mutt is truly unique—just like you!
5. The purebred instincts aren't as strong
This might sound like a bad thing, but we’re veterinarians, so bear with us on this one. Purebred dogs have instincts that can be traced back thousands of years. From providing protection and standing on guard to herding and hunting, these were the “jobs" such dogs were bred for in the first place. Just ask any pet owner who’s been given the “gift” of a dead squirrel or bird on their front doorstep. Although mixed breeds will carry on these working characteristics to a certain extent, they are less likely to have them as pervasive traits. That means you are more likely to have a dog that will just chill and be part of your family/pack.
If you have any further questions about dog breeds, mutts, or how to get your new dog on the path to wellness, please don’t hesitate to give us a call!