Mutts, mongrels, mix breeds....whatever you want to call them, it's hard not to admit that mutts are pretty stinkin' cute! And we aren't talking about those designer mutts like doodles but those mixes of who knows what that sit behind shelter bars. So why should YOU adopt a mutt of your very own?
1. They are unique
Chances are, you are rarely going to find another mixed breed that looks like your own unless it's their sibling. Genetics are simply random when choosing which features of the different breeds will be prominent in the pup ensuring they will have their own unique looks. Take our own Mitzvah for example! She's an American Bulldog/Lab mix and is as unique as they come!
2. They adapt
Most purebreds are bred to fit into a certain type of environment whether it be a hunting dog, herding dog, lap dog or more. When it comes to mutts, they are more likely to adapt too numerous types of environments due to not being as strongly programmed. While certain characteristics may come to the surface like with an Australian Cattle Dog mix still wanting to herd, it won't be as strong as a purebred.
3. They can be service dogs
Forget the myth that service dogs need to be specially bred and come from a breeder at 8 weeks old. With more people taking chances on mutts, they are showing that these guys can easily be service dogs with the right training, just like with any dog. They are also trained to be therapy dogs which go to places like children hospitals or senior facilities to bring the love.
4. They have fewer health issues
So this claim isn't exactly proven but many people out there say mixed breeds are less likely to have the health issues that pure breed dogs are known to have. Take a pug for example who has terrible respitoary issues. When you mix a pug with, say a Chihuahua, the pug genes are less prominent as are the health issues.
5.They're cheaper than buying a dog
Shelter fees run between $100-$150 and include spay/neuter, vaccines and microchip. Private rescues can run between $150-$400 depending on the age and breed but these also include the spay/neuter, vaccines and microchip along with some training more often than not because many private rescues live in foster homes and receive basic training and crate training. When it comes from buying from a breeder, you're looking at minimum $500 to upwards of $3,000 which includes nothing except maybe their first round of puppy shots. Add on everything else, and you're looking at thousands just for a puppy. And you know what else this means? Saving money equal more trips with your pup!
6. You save each-other
When you bring a dog home from the shelter or a rescue creates this feeling inside of you like no other. and more often than not, they can feel an appreciation towards you. It can create an unbreakable bond and it's possible that they are the ones saving you more than you might realize.
So there you have it folks, our top reasons why you should opt for a shelter mutt! And we have nothing against purebred dogs because honestly, you can easily find a purebred in the shelters, too! But choose to adopt and not shop!
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