Why Mixed Breeds? Why Not?

I personally do not have anything against purebreds. I think they look great and they are fantastic pets. Kids love them, adults adore them, and celebrities treat them like royalty. I can't overemphasize the fact that it's all about preference. The only problem is that preference is highly influenced by so many factors, including that dog stereotyping I was ranting about. With so many mixed breed dogs left in the shelter, it would be nice to find new homes for them. However, would-be owners are hesitant to bring home dogs of unknown origin just because somebody told them that mixed breeds are temperamental, violent, and prone to sickness, among other preconceived notions.

With such notions, it really is difficult to see mixed breeds in a positive light. My job at this point is to show the good side of mixed breeds and mongrels. Yes, there are advantages to owning one; it's just that not many people are aware of these good stuff.

Advantages:

1. Mixed breed dogs are cheap. This is a no-brainer. If you intend to buy one from a shelter, expect to pay between $80 and $100 or even less. In most cases, the fee already includes vaccination and general physical check up. Sometimes, you can get dogs for free, just ask your friendly neighborhood dog lovers and they might be able to hook you up with a puppy.
   
2. Mixed breed dogs can do what purebreds can. Mixed breed dogs can get involved in so many activities, both competitive and non-competitive. They can be entered in purebred-dominated competitions. There really is no restriction to what activities mixed breeds can do. Of course, some kennel clubs would prohibit mixed breeds from joining certain events, but with good reasons.
3. Mixed breed dogs are highly trainable. Contrary to popular belief, mixed breeds can be trained without much problem. You can enroll them in dog training schools or dog obedience school. You can also easily train them by yourself.
4. Mixed breed dogs can be good search and rescue dogs. On top of this, they can become therapy dogs for patients undergoing medical treatments. They are very versatile and can fulfil several functions.
5. Mixed breed dogs are not as high maintenance as purebreds. Acquiring them is cheap. That's a given. Let's face it, regardless of breed, the dogs have to undergo regular check ups with the vet. In that aspect, the cost of maintenance for mixed breeds and purebreds would be the same. However, mixed breed owners are not pressured, nor are they inclined to subject their dogs to fashionable accessories or pet luxuries that purebreds are accustomed to. So overall, the cost will be significantly lower.

These are the main advantages of owning mixed breed dogs. We at Happy Mongrels hope that more people are educated about mixed breeds and mongrels. They are made of awesome!