Is a Mutt Healthier Than a Purebred?

Mutts and purebred dogs both make beloved companions. They're adorable four-legged friends who will love you unconditionally. However, some differences between the two types of dogs can affect their health. Knowing the pros and cons of owning mutts and purebreds can help you choose the dog that's right for you and keep them as healthy as possible.

What Is a Mutt?

A mutt is a dog with parents of different breeds. Because of their mixed genetics, they can have various sizes, shapes, temperaments, colors and coat types. Mutts can also come from intentional breed mixing, resulting in hybrid or "designer dogs" such as large, fluffy Labradoodles. Mixed-breed mutts are usually the result of accidental mating, while people intentionally breed hybrid dogs to foster specific desired attributes.

Pros of Owning a Mutt

Mutts have mixed genes, which means that they inherit various traits. Since they receive genes from different breeds, they are less likely to develop genetic disorders and health conditions such as cancer, heart disease, spinal disorders, knee problems and hip dysplasia. As a result, mutts will require less specialized veterinary care, resulting in lower vet bills.

Do mutts or purebreds live longer? According to research, purebred vs. mutt life expectancy leans in favor of mutts. This longevity could be because they struggle with fewer health conditions than purebred dogs.

Mutts' mixed genetics build robust immune systems that operate more effectively than purebreds. Their immune systems also strengthen when they spend time in shelters or other large groups. Doing so naturally exposes them to more infectious illnesses than dogs who live with a breeder.

Purebred traits can be tricky to manage if you don't need a specific breed's skills, such as guarding, hunting or herding. Mutts are typically more laid-back, adaptable to your activity level and lifestyle and easier to train, since they don't foster a specialized trait.

Mutts tend to be more affordable than purebred dogs. Shelters will often adopt out dogs who are already microchipped, vaccinated and spayed or neutered. Cutting back on upfront veterinary costs gives you more money to spend on spoiling your furry friend with treats and toys.

Additionally, adopting a mutt lets you save a deserving dog's life and give them a forever home they might not have otherwise had. That also helps the shelter you adopt from because it frees up more resources and space for other homeless pets.

Cons of Owning a Mutt

Mutt ownership can be unpredictable due to their unique genetic background. Purebreds have dependable traits, temperaments and growth patterns, but mutts' mixed characteristics can make them unreliable. Mutt owners may find it challenging to predict how large their dog will grow to be, how well they will get along with people and other dogs and how easy they will be to train or groom.

Even though mutts have less risk for developing genetic health conditions, their health is a little less predictable than purebreds' health. Their mixed genes mean that unexpected illnesses could arise.

While a mutt can hold the No. 1 spot in your heart with their unconditional love and big eyes, they are ineligible to compete in dog shows. If you wish to participate in a dog show, you can't take a mutt because they do not conform to American Kennel Club breed standards.

What Is a Purebred?

A purebred dog or cat comes from a line of ancestors of the same breed. Purebred dogs come with papers proving their pedigree, which is the recorded ancestry.

Pros of Owning a Purebred

Breeders select for specific skills. Some make perfect guard dogs to protect your family, while others can herd cattle or serve as your adorable hunting companion. If you are looking for a dog to join your family and fulfill an extra purpose, a purebred dog will be easier to train for the breed's specific tasks. If you plan to participate in dog shows, purebreds are ideal additions to your family, because only purebred dogs can compete in these events.

Purebreds are also more predictable than mutts. When you purchase a purebred, you have a fairly accurate idea of their grooming needs, what they will look like, how big they will grow and how they will interact with people and other dogs. Additionally, while purebred dogs may have more genetic health risks than mutts, their medical needs are more predictable.

Cons of Owning a Purebred

Purebred dogs typically cost more than mutts because the breeding process is expensive, and purebred dogs are usually in high demand. Additionally, a purebred's upfront vet costs are costlier because of the pet owners' responsibility to vaccinate, microchip and spay or neuter their dogs. Purebred dogs also have a higher risk of developing inherited disorders and genetic conditions. When people breed dogs with similar genetics, they are more likely to receive their breed's genes in higher amounts.

Many purebreds have skills that make them perfect hunting, herding or guard dogs. However, these characteristics can make purebred dogs less adaptable to your activity level or lifestyle. Purebred dogs can also be challenging to train due to their distinct personalities.

How to Choose a Purebred

Selecting a purebred to add to your family is an essential decision. You want to find a breed that fits well with your family and lifestyle, so that you can provide a happy home and adequate care for them. Once you choose the breed that's right for you, you also want to find a reputable breeder to sell you a healthy dog.

Determine the Breed That's Right for You

Before choosing a specific dog breed, do your homework to find the right fit for you, your family and your lifestyle. Dog breeds have various sizes, activity levels, grooming needs, health risks and temperaments.

Are you regularly active, or do you enjoy relaxing more than anything else? Make sure you choose a breed that matches your lifestyle. Some dogs are happy to lounge on the couch with you most of the day, while others need a ton of exercise. Your yard space is also a consideration, because larger dogs typically need more space to roam.

If you enjoy the outdoors and are willing to give your dog plenty of physical activity, an energetic dog may be best for you. Maybe you are searching for the perfect running buddy or a dog who will romp with your kids in the yard. However, if you prefer to spend time indoors, a more laid-back breed may be better for your lifestyle. Also, consider different breeds' temperaments. Some dogs are great with children and other pets, while others can be more prone to aggression.

How much time and money are you willing to spend on grooming? Breeds with longer fur that doesn't shed can keep your furniture free of pet hair, but it also means that you need to either regularly groom them or pay a professional groomer to pamper your canine friend from time to time.

Additionally, make sure you consider potential health risks specific breeds can carry. Some breeds come with more health risks than others, so be honest with yourself about how well-prepared you are to handle additional care and vet bills if any problems arise. Researching your preferred breeds' health risks will also help you learn how to keep your purebred healthy.

Find a Reputable Breeder

As you search for your new four-legged family addition, avoid puppy mills and irresponsible breeders at all costs. Puppy mills are dog breeding operations that prioritize profit over animal health and safety. These operations often breed dogs in inhumane conditions such as cramped and unclean cages, little protection from extreme cold or heat and overall neglect. Inbreeding is a chronic problem at puppy mills, which can cause puppies to develop genetic health risks.

Reputable breeders breed their dogs in healthy, safe conditions. Before purchasing a dog from a breeder, check to make sure they are AKC registered, which requires them to follow strict rules and regulations. However, AKC registration does not guarantee a breeder's reputation, so you should also ask to see their facility. A trustworthy dog breeder will meet you in person and may even ask you to fill out an application because they want to make sure their puppies are going to loving homes.

If a breeder refuses to let you see their facility, it's a red flag that indicates their breeding conditions may be unsafe and unhealthy. When you visit a dog breeder's facility, pay close attention to the puppies and their living conditions. Look at where the dogs sleep, play and eat. Their living space should be clean and open. If they have many dogs crammed into tiny crates or spaces with unclean conditions, call an animal control facility to investigate.

Watch the puppies to see how they interact with the other dogs, and observe the puppies and older dogs for signs of any health conditions. Lethargy, runny eyes, runny noses and sneezing are not normal and could indicate poor health. You can also ask the breeder questions about the puppies and their breed. A responsible breeder will have extensive knowledge about the breed's exercise requirements, genetic health conditions, special needs and more. If they don't seem knowledgeable about the breed, they might not be a very reputable breeder.

Tips For Keeping Your Dogs Healthy

When you buy or adopt a four-legged friend, they become part of your family. Since a dog's lifespan is much shorter than a human's, you want to protect your furry family member and keep them around as long as possible. It's vital to know how to keep your mutt or purebred healthy so that you can take preventive measures and watch for any signs of potential health problems. You can keep your dog's health in good shape with the following strategies.

Diet and Exercise

When your dog gains too much weight, health conditions such as diabetes and arthritis can develop. Overweight cats are also prone to diabetes, so if you have a feline friend in your family, it's crucial to maintain their weight as well.

Ensure your dog gets adequate exercise, and feed them a balanced diet. You can throw a ball around for them in the yard, take them for a walk or a run or play with them in the house. Physical and mental stimulation is good for their health, and it can also help them avoid unwanted behaviors if they're a high-energy breed.

Balance your dog's diet by limiting human food. Occasional table food such as chicken is OK in small amounts, but most of their diet should be quality wet or dry dog food. A little treat now and then to let them know how loved they are is also OK, but you should give treats in moderation.

Veterinarian Care

Schedule annual wellness exams for your dog to check for any health issues, and make sure that they stay up to date on their vaccinations. Spaying or neutering your dog can also prolong their life because it prevents cancers from developing. In addition to prevention measures, you should also seek veterinarian care whenever you notice any unusual changes in your dog. Talk to your vet if you notice any of the following issues:

  • Frequent urination or thirst
  • Low appetite
  • Diarrhea
  • Vomiting
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Sneezing
  • Coughing
  • Weight loss
  • Weight gain
  • Vision or hearing changes
  • Lameness or difficulty walking

Ask your vet about heartworm disease prevention medications because this disease can be life-threatening. Flea and tick prevention is also vital because bites from these parasites can cause illnesses. Collars, topical treatments and oral treatments can prevent fleas and ticks from attaching to your furry friend, but you should ask your vet what they recommend before choosing an option.

Dental Care

Infected or broken teeth can cause health issues, so it's essential to maintain your dog's oral hygiene. Human toothpaste isn't safe for dogs, but you can purchase toothpaste made specifically for your canine companion's teeth. Dog toothpaste comes in various flavors to make brushing a fun activity for your dog. You can also purchase dog treats that help keep their teeth clean if they aren't as cooperative with the toothbrush. Additionally, you can schedule teeth cleanings at a veterinarian's office.

Protect Your Dog's Health at Nova Pets Health Center

Whether your beloved furry friend is a mutt or a purebred, you want to keep them healthy so that they live a long, happy life. At Nova Pets Health Center, we offer wellness plans and preventive care to keep your pets in good health. We are a family-run, full-service veterinary care provider that offers a wide range of services for your four-legged family members. From vaccinations to emergency procedures, we are passionate about providing quality care for your pets. Schedule an appointment for your pet today.