When you talk about getting a new dog, you’re largely faced with three choices: first, there are the mixed-breed “mutts” whose heritage is largely unknown, though you might be able to tell from their appearance or behavior what breeds were involved in their making; second, there is the purebred dog, whose heritage is entirely known but who may suffer from congenital defects owing to the breed, while on the other hand you at least know what you’re getting into as far as expectations for the breed; and third and finally, there is the option of the hybrid breed (or crossbreed), who lack the congenital defects of the purebred breeds while still offering the high pedigree of behavior and temperament that you can expect from purebred dogs.

The Purebred of Today

Dogs in particular have suffered from a number of congenital defects over the years as the breeding of purebred dogs has become more and more, shall we say, focused. The way many breeds look today is considerably different from how they looked just 100 years ago, and this is largely owed to the intense breeding programs that dogs have been put through over the past few generations.

While many breeds have become more unique in their appearance and refined in their pedigree owing to this, many of those breeds have also developed considerable health and mental problems that owners must address if they wish to own a purebred dog over a hybrid or mixed-breed dog.

Rise Above

That is not to say that you are certain to get dog with congenital defects when selecting a purebred puppy; instead, you must simply be extra-vigilant before adopting a purebred dog. It behooves you to research the breed so that you will be aware of common genetic defects that the breed struggles with. Furthermore, you should find out more about the breeder themselves, including the lineage of the litter’s parents going back several generations, while you should also verify the breeder’s registration for absence of congenital defects. With all of these “checks” in place, you can ensure that your dog is healthy and will lead a happy life.

Of course, you can skip much of these precautions if you go with a hybrid or mixed-breed dog. The simple fact is that the genetic diversity that these hybrids enjoy allows them to live lives without struggling with genetic defects that can cause very serious problems for them down the line while saddling you with the sadness of caring for a pet that is seriously ill along with the concomitant vet bills. Rise above and overcome these issues with a hybrid puppy!