mutts

When it comes to dogs, the purebreds sure are the pricey ones. Getting one with papers
can set you back close to a thousand dollars. Mutts, on the other hand, you can basically
get for free. They crowd the animal shelters, waiting to be adopted. This is a fact of life
that confuses enthusiasts of the mixed breed dog.

Mutts are healthier, they�re unique, they are bright and quick to learn, seem to live longer,
yet they are overpopulated. Mutts are mentally less intense than many purebred dogs, are
less aggressive, and are happier. This usually means to better pets for most families.

Most purebred dogs have health problems due to inbreeding that�s just something that
happens when you breed a dog with its cousin. Also with increased popularity of a certain
breed, we find that weaknesses in their medical and psychological makeup increase. These
inherited diseases are less likely to be a problem in mutts.

Mixed breed dogs offer the best of both worlds. They lessen some of the negative
stereotypes of certain breeds. They also escape the problems of over-breeding. With
purebreds, it�s all a beauty contest�it�s all about conformity you have to inbreed them to
get those traits, and they�re just not going to be as hardy as a dog that�s got a little bit of
everything in it.

But if mutts really are better dogs, then why are purebreds the ones everyone�s willing to
hand over the big bucks for. Society is hung up on image and material wealth so that they
don�t think about the benefits of �just a mutt.� They like to have the bragging rights that
their dog is from a long line of hunting, herding, toy, show, etc. dogs.

The primary benefit of having a purebred dog is the assurance of knowing what the pup
will be as an adult," the official web site states. "You�ll know what it will look like when it
grows up by becoming familiar with the breed and knowing the height, weight, coat and
temperament called for in the breed standard."

There isn�t predictability with mutts. Hopefully you will know of the breeds involved and
will have an idea of the size it will grow to.

Some purebred owners don�t want to take the chance on the surprises of how that mutt
puppy may look as an adult. With any dog, good training will give you a good personality
and a happier dog. Ideally, we shouldn�t get hung up on looks and should adore the
attention any pet will give us. Mutts are often like the citizens of the USA, a great
mixture.

If you think a mutt is the right kind of dog for you, the best way to go is to check with
friends or go to a shelter. Once you bring a mutt into your home, it seems, it�s hard to let
it go.