5 Reasons Why You Should Adopt a Mixed Breed Dog

Is there anything sweeter than a pup with an underbite and a tail that looks like it was taken from an entirely different dog? Mixed-breed dogs, aka mutts, are some of the most adorable animals on the planet. Goofy as they can sometimes look, that Frankenstein quality just adds to their charm.

These lovable mutts provide all the joy and companionship that purebreds do, but also offer some distinct advantages. These include the benefits of genetic diversity — which often translates to lower healthcare costs — and the joy of taking in a dog who might otherwise be overlooked.

If you’re considering welcoming a new canine family member into your home, you’re probably thinking about a number of things. Should you get a puppy or a full-grown dog? What about adopting a senior dog, or a pair of bonded siblings? Which dog breeds are the most popular, and why? As you mull these questions, pay a visit to your local animal shelter and see who might be waiting for you there. One of the many benefits of mixed-breed dogs is that shelters are full of so many pups who are ready to find their forever families — with no waiting list or astronomical fee required.

Still not sure why you should adopt a mixed-breed dog? Keep reading to find out more about the benefits of adopting one. Once you’ve read our list, you’ll agree that it’s much more advantageous to get a mixed-breed dog than to buy a purebred dog from a breeder.

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1. Mixed-breed dogs are healthier

Genetic diversity is a good thing. (Just think about royal families throughout history, in which inbreeding was common, and led to all sorts of problems.) Purebred dogs come from a limited gene pool, making them more susceptible to conditions such as allergies, hip and elbow dysplasia, respiratory issues, hypothyroidism, and spinal trouble. Certain issues tend to plague purebreds, like Great Danes (joint problems) and French Bulldogs (breathing trouble). So, are mixed dogs healthier? The answer is almost certainly yes. 

When you adopt a mixed-breed dog, you’ll likely encounter fewer veterinarian visits, less expensive food and medication, and a healthier longtime companion. Although you’d do anything for your pet, no one wants to race to the emergency vet on weekends or spend sleepless nights nursing a sick dog. While there are no guarantees in life, and any dog can develop an illness or disease, adopting a mixed-breed dog makes that less likely to be your fate.

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2. Mixed-breed dogs live longer

Along with generally better health for mixed breeds comes the likelihood of a longer life. Because of that genetic diversity, a mixed-breed dog is more likely to have a hearty constitution, which not only means more years to play fetch and cuddle with you, but potentially saves you from repeated trips to the vet (and the resulting steep bills).

If lifespan is something that you’re concerned about, keep in mind that smaller dogs tend to live longer than big dogs, with an average lifespan of 10 to 15 years. Large dogs have an average lifespan of 10 to 12 years, while the biggest dogs may only live to eight years old.

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3. It’s cheaper to adopt a mixed-breed

If budget is a factor (and it is for most of us), remember that buying a dog from a breeder can be a pricey proposition. (Many of them can also be scams.) Depending on the breed, you could be looking at thousands of dollars — and that’s before any health concerns bring you to the vet’s office. On the other hand, shelter adoption fees are relatively affordable, usually not more than a couple hundred dollars. Plus, you’ll save money on visits to the vet if your dog is healthy, a better bet with a mixed-breed dog. 

So, is it cheaper to adopt a mixed-breed dog? There are no guarantees, but you don’t have to be an accountant to see that your bank account will breathe a sigh of relief. While affordability may not be the most important decision-making factor for you now, consider that your financial situation could change, and you might not be able to keep up with constant medical bills from a purebred dog who needs specialized medical care.

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4. Mixed breeds are special

You know what a Golden Retriever or German Shepherd looks like. But what does a Golden Retriever crossed with a German Shepherd look like? A mixed-breed dog is as unique as you are — and that goes for behavior as well as appearance.

This means you can indulge your canine preferences when looking for a mixed-breed companion. At shelters, there are countless mixed-breed dogs of any age (including puppies) and breed combinations. They’ll also come with fur in a wide variety of colors and patterns: spotted cow, tiny brindle, piebald, and so on. 

In terms of personality (and rescue workers can be very helpful in identifying an adoptable dog’s traits), you can also find pups that range from lazy couch potatoes to hiking champs, or are great with kids and cats. Some research even suggests that they’re more trainable than purebreds, which is a great way to bond with your new dog, especially if you get them as a puppy.

When you adopt a mixed breed, you’re far more likely to get a wholly unique dog who can complement your lifestyle.

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5. You’re saving a life and benefiting animal shelters

Besides the companionship, the snuggles, and the long walks that get you out into the fresh air and increase your daily step count, consider this: The ASPCA estimates that more than three million dogs are surrendered to animal shelters each year. Many of them, heartbreakingly, end up being euthanized.

When you adopt a dog from a shelter or other rescue organization, you save a life and free up space for other dogs who are also looking for homes. Additionally, your adoption fee goes toward the work that these animal rescuers are doing. You can feel good about every penny you give them.

Ready to make a difference? Choose a mixed-breed dog

Mixed-breed dogs are healthier, live longer, have unique looks, and cost less money. You never quite know how a particular dog will mesh with your lifestyle and personality. Why not take a chance on a dog who really needs a home?

If your heart is set on a certain breed, it’s recommended that you reach out to a rescue that specializes in that type of dog. (You can kick off that breed-specific search on Adopt a Pet.) The specialists there will assess the dog’s behavior and health, giving you a more accurate picture of immediate financial demands and additional medical issues you can possibly expect in the future.

Commonly asked questions

Are mixed breeds easier or harder to train?

No, mixed breeds are not harder to train than purebred dogs. Training any dog, whether mixed-breed or purebred, is achievable with a combination of positive reinforcement, consistent methods, and plenty of love and patience. Each dog’s history and personality are unique, so it’s impossible to determine how easy or difficult it may be to train them based on breed alone. 

Should I adopt a puppy or an adult dog?

Adopting a puppy is a big commitment of time and energy. They need to be trained, and they require lots of attention. Adult dogs tend to be more easygoing, and may already be housebroken, leash-trained, and crate-trained. Which one is right for you is a decision only you can make.

How can you tell how old a dog is? 

You can estimate how old a dog is by looking at the signs of aging in dogs, which include graying fur, yellow teeth, hearing loss, and sleeping more. It’s best to reach out to your veterinarian for help in determining canine age, but it’s also important to realize that there is no wholly accurate way to determine a dog’s age. 

References

Ancestry-Inclusive Dog Genomics Challenges Popular Breed Stereotypes

Owner Perceived Differences Between Mixed-Breed and Purebred Dogs

Prevalence of Inherited Disorders Among Mixed-Breed and Purebred Dogs