Why Are Mixed Breed Dogs Unique?
Does your pup have a pedigree or are they one of the many adorable mixed-breed dogs that populate the doggy universe? Although they are known in different regions as mutts or mongrels, along with many other derogatory names, this type of dog is definitely worth paying attention to. We’ll tell you why mixed-breed dogs are unique.
What defines mixed-breed dogs?
First, let’s start by defining exactly what a mixed-breed dog is. A mixed-breed dog doesn’t belong to any of the breeds that breeding organizations recognize. These dogs result from non-selective breeding.
So, you can call a dog mixed-breed when, for example:
- The dog comes from unknown ancestry
- They have characteristics of two or more breeds
- They are descendants of wild or stray dogs
In other words, these are dogs that are not bred by breeders looking to maintain a pure breed.
Mixed-breed dogs are unique because they have genetic diversity. This diversity actually makes these dogs healthier, stronger, and have longer lifespans than their pedigree counterparts. Moreover, if you decide to adopt a mixed-breed dog, typically your new pet will be extremely grateful. She will express her gratitude in the form of boundless affection.
Why you should adopt mixed-breed dogs
Without speaking poorly of purebred dogs, we always recommend adopting a mixed-breed dog if you decide to get a new pet.
Animal shelters all over the world are full of dogs that are just looking for a family to love them. They’re waiting for the opportunity to have a good life.
Although you can find purebred dogs in some shelters, most dogs up for adoption are strays and mixed-breed dogs.
However, besides just adopting a mixed-breed dog to give a deserving animal a safe and loving home, you can also consider that these animals have many characteristics that make them unique.
Dogs without pedigrees
The greatest advantage of a dog without a pedigree is that nature, rather than humans, determined their characteristics.
Therefore, since they don’t belong to a specific breed, their genetics are more diverse. This makes them biologically more adaptable to different environments.
This genetic diversity means that they are healthier, stronger, and live longer than their purebred counterparts.
As a result, these dogs are less likely to become ill and don’t usually develop ailments that are typical of certain dog breeds. Some of these ailments and illnesses can lead to premature death or poor quality of life in old age.
Strong animals with lots of love to give
Geneticists use a term to describe the better genes that occur from crossbreeding. Hybrid vigor, or heterosis, is the tendency of a crossbred animal to be genetically superior to its parents. It’s also true that frequent crossbreeding helps to eliminate any undesirable characteristics of the parents. As a result, it makes the offspring more resistant to diseases and any adverse environmental conditions.
In addition, each mixed-breed dog has its own genetic “design,” which makes it unique. Nothing like how similar purebred dogs are to each other.
Besides biological concerns, mixed-breed dogs stand out for being animals that will always be grateful for being adopted. They’re sure to demonstrate this through constant affection. And they can become true protectors of their new homes!
We should also mention that mixed-breed dogs can be extremely intelligent animals. They learn very quickly and excel in canine sports and activities.
So, if you’re thinking about making a new dog a part of your family, you should seriously consider adopting a beautiful, original, and unique mixed-breed dog.