Mutts, Mongrels, Mixes, and Mixed Breeds are all names that might be less indicative of the amazingly palatable character they have. Mutts may seem a byproduct of circumstantial canine amore, however, they are a truly endearing option when reviewing viable breeds.
In this, Breed Spotlight: Mutts, we will discuss the benefits of the lovable mutt and review a few traits common to many mutt or mixed-breeds of dogs.
Mixed-Breed Bonuses
Mutts, great and loyal, can have some of the most unique and endearing traits of any dog. Lets look at some of the bonuses or positives to owning mutts:
- Uniqueness – One of a kind, every time, mutts generally have a unique genetic mix that make up their specific typography, giving them their physical and behavioral characteristics of uncommon proportions.
- Behavioral Pluses – Mutts have a predisposition to both (or many) ancestors. Mixing the traits of good “herding” lineage and a great lovable personality might make a perfect protector and kid “shepard” of sorts, perfect for a new family.
- Health – Having a multitude of genetic branches funneling into a singular offspring is known as “hybrid vigor” and may mean some serious health benefits. The theory of hybrid vigor means to pull from a deeper genetic “pool” and allow less negatives of the overly purebred and their flaws into the offspring – in short, the law of numbers plays in everyone’s favor here.
- Longevity – Some studies suggest that the hybrid vigor stimulates a greater lifespan, albeit still size relevant, mixed-breeds tend to live longer than their purebred counterparts.
- Mixed-Breeding – They are the “natural order” in the dog world, genetically speaking, and over generations, will naturally breed themselves into a typography of black/brown/tan colored dogs weighing around 40 lbs. Some have been recognized as their own breed such as the Pariah dog breed from Indian descent and the Canaan breed stemming from the Pariah breed.
You Can Choose Your Family
There was a brief and albeit still common trend to cross the breeds of two dogs for pop culture prowess, this left many dogs abandoned as the fad faded. Tragic and impersonal as that can seem the practice of that form of breeding is known as “cross breeding” and can be far more purposeful than just designer doggies.
Lovable as always and loyal to a fault, mutts, make up much of the canines awaiting your adoption. Healthy and happy for years to come with more personality and appreciation than your average dog, many maintain their homogenous status in harmonious family placements. Mutts are truly a breed of their own.
