by Brenda Nelson

Created on: February 24, 2009

Is there nothing cuter than a puppy? Is there no harder decision for a potential new owner than picking one? One of the first things a person needs to consider is do they want a purebred or a mixed breed puppy? Some people immediately say they want a purebred, but they may be saying this because they view the dog as a status symbol, so before you decide, make sure you know the facts.

The main advantage of getting a purebred is that you know what genetic problems are common in that breed. Every breed has one or more health concerns linked to it. Similarly you know what behavioral traits the breed is noted for. Border Collies are intelligent and active, Shih Tzus are rather the opposite. Dachshunds are prone to back problems, Greyhounds will chase cats. Of course there is no guarantee that your new pup will be a perfect example of the breed, but if you selected a reputable breeder there is a good chance your dog will be a good representation of the breed, hopefully with fewer health concerns.

If a person wants to get into showing and breeding dogs, the only ethical place to start is with a purebred dog. Mixed breed dogs can be shown in obedience or agility classes, but it is considered unethical to breed them.

The advantages of getting a mixed breed dog are many, the first being availability. There are nearly always mixed breed pups for sale, for adoption, or for free. A new owner can make a pretty good guess as to what breeds a mixed pup is and could base an estimated size, and behavior, on that. Typically mixed breed dogs have what is called "hybrid-vigor", meaning that their more diverse genes make for an overall healthier pet.

Now, it must be said that being a purebred is no guarantee of quality. Pet stores sell purebreds, but these are by no means quality dogs. All "Purebred" means is that a dog is registered, and its parents are known. It does not mean a dog is a quality dog. To ensure a quality pup, a new buyer should seek out a reputable breeder who has shown the parents and had them checked for genetic problems. This typically means putting your name on a waiting list for a pup. The biggest disadvantage with wanting a purebred is that it might be hard to find a pup of the breed of your choice, and you may have a long wait, if you want one from a good breeder.

A final point, when you buy a purebred pup from a reputable breeder, that breeder will stand behind that pup for its lifetime, willing to take it back if ever their is a problem. Then generally offer health guarantees against genetic defects. Animal shelters who adopt out pets often offer limited health guarantees. Other times mixed bred pups often come with no other health guarantee. Either way, never pay a cent for a puppy that has not received its first vaccination, deworming, and vet check.

There is no right answer to the question of if a purebred is better than a mixed breed pup, the answer all depends on who is buying the pup, their lifestyle, and what they expect and want out of a pet. Pups are cute, picking the right one is the most important step to being a good owner.

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