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2007, 2008

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PEDIGREE   VS.   MUTT

Pet Rating System:  1= Lowest   5 = Highest

Pedigree	1	2	3	4	5
Temperament
Health
Cost
Lifespan

Overall Rating - Pedigree:   

Mutt	1	2	3	4	5
Temperament
Health
Cost
Lifespan

  Overall Rating - Mutt:   

Remember:  Shelters have great dogs!

The rating system above can obviously vary greatly depending on the type of purebred and the mixture of breeds in the mutt.  Choosing a dog that is right for you can also vary greatly depending on what you are looking for in your new dog.  Our intention is to provide an objective opinion on the differences between the two.  We have measured the two based on Temperament, Health Issues, Cost, and Lifespan.

Pedigree -  One of the most common reasons for choosing a purebred dog is for a specific look, size or color.  Purebreds are known for their common physical characteristics within the breed.  You pretty much know what your going to get by looking at the lineage of the parents. 

Families with children might be interested in finding a breed that is known for its great temperament, such as the Labrador and Golden Retriever.  However, with the amount of inbreeding and poor breeding practices, temperament is not always consistent or a guaranteed trait.

These same poor breeding and inbreeding practices have also led to many breeds being known for sometimes serious genetic defects and health problems.  The most well known defects are the larger breeds that have to be tested for hip dysplasia and eye disorders.  Other health problems within purebreds are skin, mouth and breathing issues.  It is important to thoroughly research any breed for possible health problems.

Because of the health issues that can arise from a purebred dog, it is our opinion that they may not live as long as a mixed breed. 

Researching and finding a reputable breeder is the best way to get the dog you are looking for.

Mutt - A mixed breed may not be for everyone...you never know what your are going to get...which can be half the fun.  Mixed breed dogs have a lot going for them (again, we are trying to be unbiased).  It is well known that mixing breeds usually passes on the best traits including temperament and health.  Accidental breeding of different breeds does not always bring out the best features....however, breeders today often choose their different breeds carefully to get the right mix of looks and temperament. 

There has been a rise in popularity of "designer" breeds such as the Labradoodle, a Labrador and Poodle, or the Lhasapoo, Lhasa Apso and Poodle, just to name a few.  Poodles are a popular mix because they are known for their "allergenic qualities" (basically they shed less, no dog is allergy free).  Labradors are also a popular cross for their temperament.  A Labradoodle for instance, takes the temperament from the Lab, the shed less gene from the poodle and the less likelihood of a poodle getting hip dysplasia to mix together to come up with the "designer" breed.

It is our opinion that because a mutt has less likelihood to inherit bad genes, a mutt may live longer and healthier lives.

As for cost...a "designer" breed will cost more than the typical mutt.  Remember the best place to find a great mutt is at your local shelter.