Ausshole Academy

 THE MUTT vs. THE PUREBRED

There is a lot of controversy these days as to if you should buy a purebred dog or adopt, or rescue a dog.  

I don't have a problem with either one.   Some people want a guarantee of the kind of dog they will be bringing into their families.  While buying a purebred will guarantee some things, it will not guarantee the dog they bought is going to be perfect.  

When considering getting a puppy or even an adult dog, please do your research.  I know right now that there is a large interest in Australian Shepherds,  the AKC has made them the IT dog right now.  There is a big argument over the difference between the Australian Shepherd and the "American shepherd". also right now.  I have my personal opinion on this matter, which doesn't really make a difference.

THE PUREBRED

The Pros of getting a purebred, you know what your supposedly getting, you may or may not get registration papers.  Generally if you go with a purebred dog, your going to be going through a breeder. Not all breeders are equal.  Some are great, super fantastic people, who will work with you to find the best fit for your family.  Some are out for nothing more than easy money.  I suggest you go with one that will work with you, answers all your questions in a timely manner and doesn't act like your putting them out by asking.  I have worked with both kinds.  Watch for red flags, while yes people have off days, we all do, this shouldn't be a steady thing when dealing with a breeder.  

If you decide a certain breed is what you really want, please do the research on the breed.  Just because you saw a cute fluffy puppy and fell in love, that puppy will grow up and they do need certain things to be happy and healthy.  An Aussie is not a dog for the couch potato person, and a Dachshund is not for the super athletic person who wants a running companion.  

Also when choosing a purebred dog,  please please please stay away from internet scammers,  numerous people post ads about having puppies for sale cheap, and numerous people jump on those ads, because hey a purebred at that price is a steal.  And thats exactly what it is a steal, you are going to be robbed.  Take the time to research breeders,  ask them about previous puppy buyers,  get references to their kennels.  A truly good breeder will take the time to make you feel comfortable, will take the time to send you pictures and videos of their kennel set ups, and of said puppy you may be buying.  They will ask for a contract to be signed, with various rules.  Also be sure to understand deposit rules, and if you can get a refund upon your deposit if the pup you want falls through.  Also be sure to find out if health guarantees for said pup.  You don't want to buy a pup and six months later find said pup has a genetic disorder, and breeder will not take the pup back.  

THE MUTT.

We've all known one or two.  Many of  us have loved a couple.  The Mutt, adorable, funny looking, loyal, the pup of your childhood.  There is absolutely nothing wrong in owning a mutt, sometimes they make the best pet, the best friend you need.  Here are a few links for your pleasure to find out more about that elusive mixed bred dog.

A mongrel, mutt or mixed breed dog is is a dog that does not belong to one officially recognized breed and is not the result of intentional breeding.  Estimates place their numbers at 150 million world wide. Although the term mixed breed is preferred by some, many mutts have no known purebred ancestors.  Cross breeds or "designer dogs" while also a mix of breeds, differ for one reason, they were intentionally bred.  

Many a wonderful family addition comes from rescue.  

From Dog Time, a wonderful article, humous, insightful and downright a good read.

From Spruce Pets the Joy of Mutts as Companions is another highly insightful article.

All dogs, be they purebred or the mutt, need love, caring and proper training.  Any dog can be outstanding, it all depends on you and the time and effort you put forth into their training.