Also referred to as mixed or cross-breeds, mongrels and mutts, the Heinz 57 group comprises nearly half of the world’s dog population. Each of these canines, however, is truly one of a kind; and like their purebred cousins they are loyal, friendly, protective, beautiful, gentle and obedient. So why do mixed breeds comprise 80 to 90 percent of the canines surrendered to shelters? Whether he’s a schnoopooweiltese or she’s a labollshundachtzu, here are some points to ponder before making your choice.
All dogs are individuals, and should be judged as such regardless of their pedigree status. Although it is true that purebreds conform to specific "breed standards,” and your chances of getting what you expect are greater, it is also true that papers do not guarantee anything other than that the dog comes from a particular lineage. Any dog, mixed or pedigreed, may inherit the worst of the worst traits, or the best of the best traits. To find a mixed breed dog that is compatible with your family and/or lifestyle in its size, appearance, or temperament, work with a knowledgeable shelter. It would be beneficial to have at least a recent history of the dog’s health.
Cross breeds do tend to inherit the personality type of one of their dominant parents, not both. So don’t assume that a jack Russell / Bernese mountain dog mix will be a nice balance between hyper and relaxed. The American Temperament Test Society (ATTS) is a national, not-for-profit organization dedicated to the promotion of standardized temperament testing. More information can be accessed at www.atts.org/index.html.
Mixed breed dogs require a smaller initial cash investment. Unless you’re intending to show or breed your dog, why pay extra for a fancy label, when the cost of a pound puppy can be up to 90% less? In addition, most shelter dogs will have been vaccinated and dewormed, and quite possibly already neutered. If not, most shelters will offer a veterinary discount toward the procedure.
Equal opportunities abound for mutts.
· The America Kennel Club currently recognizes mixed-breed dogs through its Canine Good Citizen program (http://www.akc.org/events).
· United Kennel Club (http://www.ukcdogs.com/) allows pound puppies to participate in obedience trials. Register with the American Mixed Breed Obedience Registry at http://www.amborusa.org/.
· Mutts can compete in agility events held under the auspices of the US Dog Agility Association (http://www.usdaa.com/) and the North American Dog Agility Club (http://www.nadac.com/).
· The Mixed Breed Dog Clubs of America (http://members.tripod.com/mbdca/) is a national registry for mixed breeds which provides opportunities similar to the AKC.
Go green. You probably never thought of it this way, but when you adopt a shelter dog, you’re recycling! Not only are you giving a mixed breed a new leash on life (pun intended), but you’re gaining a truly unique friend. And, if you really want to have some fun, adopt one of the following mixed breeds:
Airedale + Spaniel = Airiel: a dog that brings in good TV reception
Basenji + Schipperke = Baserke: a dog that's mad about its owner
Collie + Lhasa Apso = Collapso: a dog that folds up for easy transport
Newfoundland + Basset Hound = Newfound Asset Hound:
a dog for financial advisors
Pekingnese + Lhasa Apso = Peekasso: an abstract dog
Pointer + Setter = Poinsetter: a traditional Christmas pet
