COLUMN: Pedigree vs mixed-breed dogs – How to choose …
Having to decide between pedigree and mixed-breed dogs? Local dog trainer Nadine Whittal gives us a few things to look into ...
• Nadine Whittal, dog trainer writes:
Often, when deciding on adopting a dog we find ourselves having to decide between pedigree and mixed-breed dogs. Many people fall into either one category or the other, and will have strong opinions on why. It is important to conduct your own research on the matter to make up your own mind. Here are a few things to look into.
Dogs are generally categorised as one breed or the other, based on their appearance and physical characteristics. Pedigree dogs fall readily into a category and if that is what you are looking for then pedigree is the way to go.
Health is also an important factor to consider when deciding on a dog. Interestingly, a lot of health concerns are related to pedigree dogs rather than mixed-breed dogs. Pedigree lines were developed by carefully selecting and breeding for specific characteristics. This has narrowed the gene pool considerably and, as a result, hereditary issues become more pronounced. Things like heart disease, joint pain and spinal difficulties are all examples of this.
This is not to say that getting a mixed-breed dog will guarantee genetic health. There is no guarantee and genetics are a complicated and varied field. However, for the most part, mixed breed dogs do tend to be slightly hardier and healthier than pedigree dogs.
Character is another determining quality that can be predicted by breed. Certain breeds were bred for specific activities and are known for possessing these characteristics. For example, hound dogs were bred for hunting. They often become distracted by smells in the environment and ignore mom or dad. It is easer to predict these characteristic with pedigrees than with mixed-breed dogs as you are not always sure what you are getting.
Finally, price is possibly the main determining factor when adopting a dog. As a result of specific breeding requirements, paperwork and other administrative requirements, pedigree dogs tend to be quite a bit more expensive than mixed-breed dogs. It is always important to purchase an animal from reputable breeders and these tend to be pricier.
I have had both mixed-breed and pedigree dogs. I do not prefer one or the other specifically. I have found that price, the training goals I have for the dog and general cuteness affect my decision-making.
