Purebred Vs. Mixed Breed Dogs: Which Is Right For You?

Many potential pet parents carefully weigh the pros and cons of purebred dogs versus mixed breed dogs. Both of these types have advantages and disadvantages. The decision really comes down to which one fits the owner’s lifestyle better.

Purebred and mixed breed differences

Purebred dogs have parents that also had a pure lineage. Thus, if you purchase an English Bulldog, rest assured that its parents were both English Bulldogs. Purebred dogs come with a pedigree, which is paperwork that certifies the lineage. With over 178 breeds recognized by the American Kennel Association, there are plenty of purebred dogs to choose from.

Mixed breed dogs have parents from different breeds. Many people think of these dogs as strays or mutts, but that’s not entirely accurate. Many dogs that look like a purebred, such as a Cocker Spaniel, may actually be a mixed breed.

Designer mixed breeds

There is another type of mixed breed which is in a category all its own. Designer mixed breeds are intentionally bred to create a new breed or to develop positive traits in a dog. An example is the Puggle, which is a cross between a Pug and Beagle. Another example is the Labradoodle, which is a cross between a Poodle and a Labrador Retriever, often bred for its hypoallergenic properties.

Advantages of purebreds

One of the advantages of owning a purebred dog is that you can research its personality type. While not every dog in a breed has the same temperament or activity level, most of them are very similar. Older owners may prefer a breed known for its low energy levels. Likewise, those that want a dog for a specific purpose, such as hunting or swimming, should select a breed known to excel in those areas.

Another big advantage with purebred dogs is knowing exactly how large it will get and how much fur it will have. This is important when considering your living space size and whether you have allergies. When purchasing a mixed breed puppy, the primary disadvantage is not knowing how large it will be as an adult.

Advantages of mixed breeds

Ironically, mixed breed dogs are often genetically healthier than purebred dogs. Their diverse gene pool eliminates many of the health issues that are common in pure bloodlines. The technical term for this is hybrid vigor. This means that the larger number of genes buries the recessive ones that cause health issues.

Mixed breed dogs also tend to have better temperaments than their purebred counterparts. While a purebred Border Collie may be focused and intense, a Border Collie mix may be more playful. Knowing which breeds are contained in a dog’s genes provides the best of both of them.

Lifestyle plays an important role

The most important factor in choosing between these types of dogs is assessing the owner’s lifestyle. One of the first considerations is that of money, as purebreds cost significantly more. In addition, owners should plan for the known medical conditions that will arise later, based on breed research.

Another consideration is the size of the living space. Those with large yards may do fine with a mixed breed dog. On the other hand, apartment dwellers may prefer a purebred dog so as to know exactly how large it will grow.

Both purebred and mixed breed dogs have many endearing qualities and make loyal companions to their owners. It’s really the specific lifestyle qualities of the owner that dictates the right choice.