Is a Mutt a Lesser Dog than a Purebred?

Dog Breeds

A mutt is definitely not a lesser dog than a purebred. There are a lot of positive benefits to adopting a mutt as opposed to a purebred, and many prospective dog adopters might be surprised to find out that a mutt might be a perfect fit for them and their family.

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Introduction

A mixed-breed dog is definitely not a better or worse companion than a purebred. There are many positive benefits to adopting a mixed-breed, also known as a “mutt,” and many prospective owners find a mixed-breed dog or dog of uncertain heritage to be a perfect fit for their family.

“'Hybrid Vigor”

“Hybrid vigor” is the increased productivity and performance in the first generation of crossbred animals produced by the mating of dissimilar breeds. Based on the principal of “hybrid vigor,” mixed-breed dogs are thought to live longer and generally be healthier than purebred dogs based on genetic diversity. Mutts tend to have hybrid vigor and often do not develop many of the disorders and diseases more commonly seen in purebred dogs, especially those that are inbred.

Personalities

Dogs are individuals, and there is no way to make accurate generalizations about the traits of mixed-breed and purebred dogs. Certainly, purebred dogs may more predictably have the characteristics of their particular breed, while dogs of unknown lineage can vary more widely in terms of behavior and temperament. However, most mixed-breed dogs have wonderful personalities. They can be intelligent and easy to train. They tend to be good with children and make beloved family pets. They are every bit as loving and loyal as purebred dogs can be, depending of course on how they are raised and the characteristics of the breeds and particular dogs behind them.

Cost and Availability

Other wonderful attributes of mutts are that they are affordable and readily available. While some people wait months or years for that perfect purebred puppy, animal shelters are overflowing with happy, well-adjusted, healthy mixed-breed dogs waiting for homes. Rescue groups often have purebred and mixed-breed dogs available as well.

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