Why a Mix Can Be Better: Adopting a Mutt

Affectionately termed a mutt, a mongrel, or a Heinz-57 (because they have a little of everything), a dog of mixed breed is definitely not a lesser kind of dog. A mutt can be just as smart, loving, and beautiful as a purebred dog. And what’s more, he’s got a unique look all his own.

Still, some people believe that a purebred dog has a certain allure that no mutt can ever compare with. Let’s see if we can challenge that assumption with our best reasons why adopting a mutt is a great idea.

All Shapes and Sizes

One walk down the adoption aisle at the shelter or a peek at the nearest adoption event and you’ll see that you can choose a mutt of any shape, size, and color. This has several advantages. You can tailor your dog’s size to your lifestyle. For example, if you want a running buddy, look for a dog with longer legs. Smaller dogs may be easier to take care of in a smaller home. You can find also find a dog with a specific look, such as droopy ears or prick ears, a short, wiry, or long coat, and any variation of face shape.

Personality Plus

Mutts often have well rounded personalities. Unlike a purebred, who was bred for a specific purpose (hunting, for example), a mutt often has the best of both (or all) breeds.

Healthy and Happy

There is a great debate about whether or not a mutt is inherently healthier than a purebred. This stems from the fact that irresponsible breeding can strengthen unhealthy genetic traits, if there is not enough variation. With a mutt, you get the best of both (or all) breeds. At least one study at UC Davis, California maintains that mixed breed dogs are healthier.

Save a Life

One of the best reasons for adopting a mutt, is that of course by doing so, you’re saving a life. Even if you adopt your mutt from a no-kill shelter, you’re creating space for another pet who needs one by adopting a mutt. Shelters are teeming with lovable, wonderful pets who deserve a forever family, many of which have amazing abilities to rival any purebred dog.

Adopting a Mutt is More Affordable

Depending on where you live, adopting a mutt can be much less expensive than buying from a breeder. In addition to saving on the price tag of an expensive purebred, many shelters microchip, spay, and vaccinate all the animals that they adopt out. Shelters need the adoption fees they ask for to cover some of these costs, but at $150- $300, it’s a great deal.

Sporty Spice

Mutts can successfully compete in many sports that purebreds do. Your mutt could excel at flyball, agility, dock diving, lure coursing, obedience, and more. And not only are they athletic and smart, but they are a conversation starter at these events – what kind of dog is that?

Creative Genius

Six out of the top ten most popular breeds right now are, in fact, mixed breeds. There’s the Labradoodle, Goldendoodle, and the Puggle, to name a few.

You can also get really creative with naming your own mutt’s breed. We’ve heard people refer to their mutt as a chiwenie (a chihuahua/dachshund mix), a Maltipoo (maltese/poodle) and a shihpoo (shih tzu/ poodle mix). What’s more, with simple DNA testing, you can even surprise your friends (and yourself) with the genetic breeds are in your mutt’s lineage. Now that’s worth a reveal party!Do you have a mutt? Can you add to this list? Give us a call and let us know why adopting a mutt has been a great decision for you. Your friends at Beverly Hills Veterinary Associates look forward to helping your keep your mutt healthy and happy for a lifetime.