Among the few concerns that plague most first-time pet owners is the question about adopting a purebred or opting for a mixed breed. Keeping their differences aside, owning a pet itself is a blessing in disguise. Here is some information that will help you choose a pet that will be best suited for you.
Have a Heart and Adopt
Most dogs raised in puppy mills are housed in shockingly poor conditions with improper medical care, and the parents of the puppies are kept in cages to be bred over and over for years. ―Humane Society of the United States
It is a blessing to have a faithful and true companion to return home to every day of your life. While we all know the benefits of having a pet at home, there are quite a few considerations that have to be kept in mind before bringing a pup home.
One of the foremost concerns that plague most owners is to choose between a purebred and a mixed breed or a designer dog. The only concern with a mixed breed is that one cannot be certain of its traits till it is fully grown.
However, adopting a mixed breed puppy comes with a benefit of bidding goodbye to defective genes and inherited congenital diseases. Let's get to the characteristics of each type before analyzing what to choose.
Purebred Dogs
These canines are developed as a result of selective breeding; a purebred pup is a progeny of two individuals of the same breed.
Being created from a limited gene pool makes it easy to predict the size, weight, and general behavior of the dog/puppy. Purebreds, however, come with their list of hereditary abnormalities and genetic defects specific to that particular breed.
Mixed Breeds
As the name suggests, these canines are developed as a result of a combination of different breeds.
The advantage of hybrid mutts is that in the process of matching two completely different breeds, you get a dog with a better genetic makeup, making it healthier than a purebred dog. The real charm of a mixed breed lies in the fact that each one comes out unique depending on the dominant (positive or negative) traits of either one of the particular breed.
Weighing the Odds
Choosing between a mixed breed and purebred pup can be a tough call; however, it can be made easier following these simple pointers. It is best to weigh the pros and cons of both types before you actually invest in one.
Purebred
Pros:
Distinguishable physical characteristics
Predictable and desirable behavioral traits
Documented pedigree
Unmixed, controlled lineage
Cons:
Prone to genetic abnormalities
Relatively expensive to adopt and maintain
Mixed Breed
Pros:
One-of-a-kind breed
Visible characteristics of both breeds
Less prone to genetic defects
Economical to adopt and maintain
Cons:
Difficult to predict traits when small
Difficult to typify
Making the Right Choice
Given so many options, you are bound to be spoiled for choice. However, there are quite a few things you would like to consider before adopting a pet for your home, which includes paying attention to what type or breed suits your lifestyle.
You could very well choose a purebred if you intend to someday become a breeder yourself, or even participate in shows as a means of recreation. The upside of investing in a mixed breed is that they are more adaptable and are sure to perfectly fit into your family.
Whether you choose a purebred or a mixed breed, or even decide to have one of each, you ought to remember to do a through research based on your interest.
Ensure you adopt a pet instead of spending a fortune purchasing it from a breeder, unless you want to be a certified breeder someday. Also remember, you wouldn't just be giving a pet a home, but also be a responsible caregiver.
Lastly, bear in mind that your pet will be a reflection of you, which means, the way you train and treat it is how your pet will actually turn out to be.