There are many different types of dogs in a very wide range of shapes, sizes, colors, and temperaments. Domestic dogs have been selectively bred over thousands of years to become what we know today. Dogs that are purebred have been bred for generations from only one particular breed or strain. Dogs that contain the genetic material from at least two different breeds are considered mixed breeds.
Dogs, just like people, need routine vaccinations to stay healthy and prevent illness. Some vaccinations, such as those against rabies, are required by law. You should get in the habit of keeping accurate records of your dog’s vaccinations. It’s a good idea to keep a folder in your house that is just for vet records.
Purebred Puppies
Pros
1. You know what to expect! Each individual breed has its own standard that describes its size, coat type, possible health issues, and personality. If you have very specific needs when it comes to your new puppy, a purebred can leave out a lot of the potential questions.
2. A reputable breeder will often genetically screen their dogs before breeding to help ensure they do not pass on possible congenital defects to their puppies. This will help provide a truly healthy animal that will have a greatly reduced chance of health issues down the road.
Cons
1. Purebred dogs can be irresponsibly bred. When a breeder cares about the quality of their dogs, they ensure that they only breed individuals that perfectly reflect the breed standard in regards to temperament, confirmation, and health. When dog owners breed two less than ideal dogs, they get less than ideal puppies that deviate from the breed’s standard, making them less predictable.
2. Every breed has its own genetic health issue that tends to appear, and it can still occur in dogs that were responsibly bred. For example, Labrador Retrievers are notoriously prone to hip dysplasia and Dalmations are more likely to be deaf. The Canine Inherited Disorders Database is a fantastic resource that lists all common genetic disorders that occur in each individual dog breed to help educate dog owners and breeders alike.
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Pros
1. Mixed breed dogs are incredibly unique! These weird mixes often get much more attention than purebred dogs just because they may not look anything close to common! Anyone can go get a Labrador, but there may only be that one litter of puppies that involve so many breeds that they become their own little interesting breed. After all, the dog breeds we know today are only in existence now because someone decided to mix a variety of different breeds together until they got a combination they liked!
2. Mixed breed dogs tend to be healthier and live longer lives. They generally avoid all common congenital health defects of purebred dogs. While getting a mixed breed isn’t a guarantee of good long term health, studies do show that mixed breed dogs tend to be healthier than purebreds.
3. Mixed breed dogs tend to be much more affordable than a purebred!
Cons
1. It can be very difficult to have an accurate idea of what a mixed breed puppy will be like once he is grown, in regards to temperament and appearance. You may expect a small to medium sized dog, but end up with a very large dog. You may expect a low energy dog, and instead get one that is extremely high energy. While you can generally make an educated guess on what breeds may be lingering in your puppy, it’s best to be open to different possibilities as he grows into an adult.
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