Only in the last five to ten years have mutt breeds got all the attention they deserve.  Families are finally starting to realize that loveable mutts provide the family dog experience they want for themselves as their children. There are many mixed breeds that make loveable Mutts as family dogs. 

What is a “Mutt”?

• A mutt is a dog that is not a purebred.
• A purebred dog is a dog whose parents were both the same specific breed. In contrast, a mutt may have parents from two different breeds or parents who were already a mix of many different breeds themselves.
• Therefore, a mutt does not carry a specific breed name, and that is where the term “Mutt” comes from; a dog that is a mixture of many different breeds.
• Mutts may also be referred to as Cross Breeds, Half-Breeds, Mixed Breeds or Heinz 57

When to consider a “Mutt” over a Purebred?

• Determine what your dog-owning long-term goals are.
• I would recommend a mutt for people generally looking for a family dog. People looking for a companion for themselves and their children.
• A dog you can walk anywhere, take anywhere and do anything with! Anything you would do with a purebred, that is.
• Mutts can usually be more affordable than purebreds
• They have more variation in their genetic makeup. No two mutts look the same or act the same, making your mutt much more unique than any purebred
• Mutts gave people the chance to mix two dogs together with two or more great qualities to create a dog that could function to his or her maximum potential. In contrast, purebreds might have one great quality or skill only, making some people believe that mutts are “smarter” than purebred dogs.

Purebreds are for people and families who:

• One day want to show and breed their dog. Only purebreds will be accepted for membership groups such as the American Kennel Club which is essential to keep the bloodlines up to breeding standards
• Want their dog to have “pure” blood lines and the best physical qualities
• Want the notoriety of owning a purebred
• Are willing to spend more money for a similar breed they could probably purchase as “pet-stock”
• Prefer a dog that has been specifically bred to maximize one specific trait or skill such as hunting, working, herding, etc.

Mutts Have Much More Character

Mutts can have such a variety of genetics, they are often a combination of 3 or more other types of dog breeds. Each Mutt, even from the same litter, will have much more distinguished physical characteristics than a sibling, and will have a more unique personality than purebreds. Purebreds have very similar physical and characteristic traits, because their genetic make up is very similar since it has been so highly-controlled and standardized. Loveable Mutts as family dogs, show unique ways of bonding, creating moments and memories specific to your family that will last a lifetime.

What breed mix is your dog?