Why Mutts Are Great Dogs

When it comes to getting a new dog, many people go to dog breeders. Although that can be a popular option, it is not the only one out there! Going to an animal shelter to find a new pet is a great choice as well! There are many benefits to adopting a mutt or a shelter dog. National Mutt Day is celebrated on July 31st and we encourage you to consider why getting a mutt as your next dog could be a great decision!

Mutts can be healthier: Purebred dogs are often the result of inbreeding or mating with their own kind to attain the desired traits owners are looking for. This can lead to certain breeds developing high risks of health problems like cancer. Since mutts are mixed genetically, they are less likely to have genetic defects or to inherit problems when dominant genes of other breeds take over. This leads to healthier mixed dogs!

Mutts can live longer: Since mutts are portrayed as being healthier than purebreds, they tend to have longer lifespans than other dogs. Also, mixed breeds are thought to adjust easier to different households and living conditions, while purebreds may be bred with a specific skill set in mind like hunting or herding. This helps mutts with adjusting to their new experiments and living longer than other breeds.

Mutts are cheap: It can cost several thousand dollars to buy a dog from a dog breeder. Going to a dog shelter is significantly cheaper! Most shelter dogs are under or around a hundred dollars and can even come spayed or neutered with up-to-date vaccinations. Therefore, getting a mutt can be a lot easier and more affordable than a purebred.

Mutts are unique: Instead of looking like most other dogs, your mutt has its own personal look. Everyone knows what a black lab or golden retriever may look like, but having a mutt provides new creation and mix of breeds to create a new, beautiful dog. You also get more choices of what your dog will look like when you visit a shelter to choose a mutt to take home.

Adopting mutts helps reduce pet overpopulation: According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), almost 4 million dogs enter U.S. animal shelters every year and 75% of the dogs are currently in shelters are mutts. By choosing to adopt from a shelter versus a dog breeder you are saving a life and reducing a large number of dogs in shelters across the country.

Now it’s time to really consider getting a mutt! Reach out to an animal shelter in your area to learn more about adopting a mixed breed. For Cheyenne residents, visit the Cheyenne Animal Shelter or Black Dog Animal Rescue to find local options.