December 2nd is National Mutt Day! Celebrate about finding out more about them.
Personalities and Physical
Mutts have
a wide range of personalities and physical characteristics, and ultimately, their temperament depends on the mixture of breeds they possess. They all look and act differently.
If the mutt is a simple mixed-breed dog comprised of only a small amount of breeds, you’ll have a better idea of what their personality and physicality will be like as they get older. Contrarily, if you have a complex mixed-breed dog, meaning the dog is made up of numerous breeds (such as those whose parents were also mutts), then this is much more difficult to predict (enter the mystery egg analogy here).
Health
Just as personality and appearance, a mutt’s health also varies widely. However, as a whole they are regarded as more robust and healthier than purebreds because they’re not as prone to genetically inherited health issues.
Also, while many purebreds are bred responsibly, that isn’t always the case. Puppy mills and unregulated backyard breeding are serious issues, and they’re something that mutts usually avoid as a whole.
Reasons To Adopt a Mutt!
- They’re typically more affordable to adopt than purebreds! You can sometimes find mutts for free, or if you adopt from a shelter, for around $50 to $200. Many purebreds can cost you hundreds, sometimes even over $1,000.
- Mutts are also much easier to come by, as humane societies and shelters are filled with them. As such, they are more likely to be put down in high kill shelters. Adopting a mixed breed could very easily save a life, and they’re so eager to love you!
- As mentioned, their health is generally considered better than a purebred’s health due to a lack of inherited hereditary ailments.
- Mutts can still compete in dog shows! The Westminster Dog Show opened its doors to mutts in 2014. They can also compete in agility training via organizations such as the NADAC, and they’re able to be trained as service dogs, too!
