Are you interested in getting a new dog? If so, it’s important for you to think about whether you would prefer a purebred or a mixed breed and to consider all the factors that influence your decision. Maybe you have fond memories of growing up with a particular breed, or perhaps you’re looking for a dog that has specific physical and behavioral traits.
Like all pets, purebred dogs have their ups and downs. By understanding the pros and cons of owning a purebred, you can make an informed decision about whether one is a good fit for you, your home and your lifestyle.
Why Is It Important to Purchase a Purebred Dog From a Responsible Breeder?
Although a purebred dog might have desirable traits, some also have various health or behavioral problems. All dogs descend from the wolf, and current breeds only exist because people designed them for specific purposes, says Dr. Greg Martinez, a veterinarian at Gilroy Veterinary Hospital in California and the author of “Dog Dish Diet.”
“In doing that, we can produce a lot of hereditary problems,” Dr. Martinez adds. For this reason, it’s important to purchase a purebred dog from a responsible and reliable breeder.
Why Are Purebred Dogs So Popular?
In today’s society, some people want purebred dogs simply because they’re popular in the media, suggests Steve Dale, a certified animal-behavior consultant. “Dogs become trendy,” he explains, “and that’s not always a good thing.” When trying to find the right pet, you must think about your own personal preferences, as opposed to those of the masses. “You want to determine what’s best for your lifestyle,” says Dale.
What Are the Pros of Owning a Purebred Dog?
Here are three pros of going the purebred route when looking for a new pet:
- Predictable Physical Traits
You can usually count on a purebred pet to have a certain set of physical traits. As such, when you adopt or buy a purebred puppy, you can do so knowing the approximate size that he will grow to be, as well as the type of hair, fur and body he will likely have as a full-grown dog.
- Predictable Behavior and Temperament
Dogs with pure bloodlines were bred over centuries to have certain temperaments. For example, poodles and Jack Russell terriers can have hyperactivity, while basset hounds and pugs tend to behave in a much more docile manner. Knowing about these traits in advance allows you to have a good sense of whether or not a certain breed is right for you.
- Approved to Compete in Dog Shows
Only purebred dogs are allowed to compete in American Kennel Club-sponsored dog shows. As such, if you’re interested in participating in these types of events, you should choose a purebred over a mixed breed.
What Are the Cons of Owning a Purebred Dog?
Here are two cons of going the purebred route when thinking about choosing a new pet:
- Health Problems
Many breeders practice inbreeding to maintain or accentuate certain features. Unfortunately, this has caused certain breeds to become more prone to developing specific diseases and illnesses. For example, German shepherds tend to develop hip dysplasia, while breeds such as pugs and bulldogs often have respiratory issues.
- Expense
Buying a purebred dog from a breeder can put a lot more strain on your wallet than adopting a mixed-breed dog from a shelter. Some purebreds can range in the thousands of dollars, while adoption costs just a nominal fee. However, if you have your heart set on a purebred, you can try to adopt one from a breed-specific rescue society.
For more information about purebred dogs, check out the Top 15 Designer Dog Breeds.
Kelly Sundstrom is an award-winning journalist, author and artist. As the caretaker of two dogs, five cats and a bearded dragon, Sundstrom understands the importance of picking out the best pet for your family.
