Small mutt dogs: 25 Best Mixed-Breed Dogs – Mutt Dogs You’ll Love

These 29 Amazing Mixed Dog Breeds Will Make You LOVE Mutts (BUT #5 Will Freak You Out)

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I love watching purebred pups strut their stuff at dog shows, but when it comes to picking a pet, I don’t care about pedigrees. I know from experience that mutts make some of the best family pets, so I picked 29 of my favorites to share!

This list of mutts shows that they’re just as smart, sweet, and doggone cute as purebreds. Be careful! They’re enough to steal your heart. They certainly took mine!

#1 Alusky: Siberian Husky and Alaskan Malamute

Aluskies have beautiful, wolf-like markings, and they love to be kept busy. You can train them for all kinds of activities like tracking and rescue work. Hmm… I wonder if I could teach one to carry in my groceries.

#2 Taco Terrier: Chihuahua and Toy Fox Terrier

Hold the salsa! The teeny taco terrier, or “Chitoxy,” is feisty enough, but you’ll have no trouble training these smart pups. They love to learn new tricks and commands.

#3 Chiweenie: Chihuahua and Dachshund

Depending on its parents, a Chiweenie can be long- or short-haired. If you love to run or walk, a Chiweenie makes a great partner because they’re so active.

#4 Pitsky: Pitbull and Husky

Some people are scared of pitbulls, but I think if they met a few of these sweet, goofy-looking mutts, they’d change their minds! Pitskies have the greatest facial expressions.

#5 Pugapoo: Pug and Poodle

Pugapoos, whether tiny or mid-sized, have a poodle’s swagger and are pretty sure they’re the center of the universe. You, know, when you’re that cute, I think they might be right a lot of the time.

#6 Puggle: Pug and Beagle

What a cutie! These guys look a little like mastiff puppies that never grow up, and they’ve got that puppy attitude to go with it. Make sure you’re consistent when training your Puggle so that stubborn streak doesn’t cause problems.

#7 Beagleman: Beagle and Doberman Pinscher

I like that these mutts, also called “dobeagles,” don’t just look like miniature pinschers. The beagle coloring makes them much more unique!

#8 Pomsky: Pomeranian and Husky

So fluffy! If you opt for one of these adorable mutts, be prepared for lots of brushing since both Pomsky’s parents have thick coats. They’re smart, devoted, and make great guard dogs. Just… don’t tell them they’re tiny. They haven’t noticed yet.

#9 The… Um… What Would You Call It?: Corgi and Dalmatian

There may not be a good name for these little mutts, but their cuteness factor is off the charts! Like little Dalmatians, they’ve got spotted coats that Cruella DeVil would love, but they’re the size and shape of corgis!

#10 Shepherd Chow: Chow Chow and German Shepherd

These guys are killer guard dogs… that is if you want intruders to die of cuteness. At heart, shepherd chows are adorable balls of fluff.

#11 Okay, Corgi Crosses Are Hard to Name: Corgi and German Shepherd

Imagine a big sturdy German shepherd with stubby little Corgi legs. Yep, that’s pretty much what this cross looks like. These guys have a special place in my heart because they love to snack as much as I do! Check out full Corgi German Shepherd Mix review here

#12 Horgi: Corgi and Husky

This is another mutt that looks like a puppy even when grown. With husky coloring and the corgi’s build, they’re loving and energetic. Like most corgi crosses, they’ve got a strong herding instinct and will even try to herd you!

#13 Golden Dox: Dachshund and Golden Retriever

These lovable pups tend to be bigger than dachshunds, but smaller than the average golden. They’re super smart and have a fantastic sense of smell. They’ve even been trained as tracking dogs and to detect drugs.

#14 Cocker-Pei: Shar-pei and Cocker Spaniel

Look at all the wrinkles! Who can resist that big shar-pei nose and wrinkled skin, and those curly cocker spaniel ears? Me, hopefully, or I’m going to have to explain the mysterious appearance of another dog!

Want to see another Shar-Pei crossbreed with these adorable wrinkles? Take a look at the Shar Pei Lab mix.

#15 YorkiePoo: Yorkshire Terrier and Poodle

Topping out around 15 pounds, the yorkiepoo (or “yoodle”) is the perfect lap dog if you’ve got allergies. Thanks to their poodle ancestry, yorkiepoos don’t shed, and their fur is hypoallergenic. Thanks to their Yorkie ancestry, they’re unbelievably cute.

#16 Yet Another Corgi Conundrum: Corgi and Sheltie

Cross a corgi and a Shetland sheepdog, and what do you get? I’m not sure, actually, except that it’s adorable. Some have suggested “Pembroke shelties” as a name for these mutts, but Pembrokes aren’t the only corgis. It’s a conundrum.

#17 Corgipoo: Poodle and Corgi

Source

All the sweetness of a corgi with hardly any of the shedding! Corgipoos are great with kids, rarely bark, and, if you’re into dog agility competitions, these little fellows are smart and quick out on the course.

#18 Sharp Asset (or Ba-Shar): Basset Hound and Shar-Pei

It’s hard to imagine a dog that’s as wrinkly as a shar-pei and as droopy as a basset hound, but that’s what you get with a sharp asset. The name’s great too, don’t you think?

#19 Labsky: Labrador and Husky

A mix of two of my favorite breeds! The color of a labsky typically depends on whether their lab parent was black, chocolate, or yellow.

#20 Siberpoo: Siberian Husky and Poodle

Though these mutts are independent, they love to be active and play with you. They’re great on the agility course, and do best with room to run.

#21 Chug: Pug and Chihuahua

Scoot over, couch pug-tato! Chugs are much livelier dogs, but not as obnoxiously hyperactive as Chihuahuas can be. Tire them out with a good game of fetch, and a chug will be ready to cuddle with you for the rest of the night.

#22 Jack-A-Ranian: Pomeranian and Jack Russell Terrier

With two high-energy parents, it’s no wonder the Jack-a-ranian is a dog that loves to play! Their coats require less work than Pomeranians’, and they’re very smart, so don’t try to pretend you don’t know where the treats are.

#23 Goberian: Siberian Husky and Golden Retriever

Another gorgeous fluffball. I just love the combination of golden fur and icy blue husky eyes. Goberians are really friendly mutts and love to play with you, your family, other dogs… just about anything that moves!

#24 Fourche Terrier: West Highland White Terrier and Yorkshire Terrier

These teeny terriers are great if you live in an apartment. They seldom bark, and though they love to be active, it’s easy to meet their needs with a daily walk.

#25 Schnoodle: Poodle and Schnauzer

These great companion pups are pretty sure they’re the cutest thing on four legs, and you’ve got to admit they have a point. They love attention, and while they’re always up for a walk or game of fetch, they’re rarely hyperactive.

#26 Chusky: Chow Chow and Husky

These mutts are like really, really fluffy huskies, so I’d recommend you invest in some serious summer air conditioning. Or, you know, move to Alaska and take up sled dog racing!

#27 Bullpug: Pug and English Bulldog

Sometimes called miniature bulldogs, these little cuties are laid back and independent. They’re great if you have a busy family on the go because they’re not anxious or needy.

#28 Dalmachsund: Dachshund and Dalmatian

I can’t believe how beautiful these sweeties are! Because of the variety of colors found in dachshunds, dalmachsunds aren’t limited to just Dalmatian black and white. You can find spotted pups in all kinds of different shades, from chocolate brown to almost golden.

#29 Cheagle: Chihuahua and Beagle

Combine a high-energy Chihuahua and an affectionate beagle, and you get a family friendly pet: the Cheagle! Though they can be a little excitable, they’re also devoted lap dogs that love to play with you.

Okay, I’ll be the first to admit it. I. Love. Mutts. I can never understand why anyone would choose a purebred when there are so many loveable crosses in the shelters. What do you think? Won over yet?

Share with your friends, and if you think of good names for those corgi crosses, let me know in the comments!

21 Interesting Mixed Dog Breeds (Weird Mutt Dogs)

One of the most fulfilling events you can have in your life is to raise a dog. Most owners will agree. In fact, dog ownership has only been rising in the last decades. From the year 2000 to 2017, pet dogs in the USA have increased from 68 million to 90 million dogs.

But for some reason, most people who are looking to raise a dog are looking specifically at purebred dog breeds. Whether its because they want a “guaranteed look” or think less of mutt dogs, this unfortunate phenomenon is indeed happening.

But here’s the truth. Other than certain physical traits, there is absolutely no difference between a mutt and a purebred dog. Rather, I would even argue that it may be better to get a mixed breed.

RECOMMENDED: 57 Best Hypoallergenic Dogs

Table of Contents

• Why Get a Mixed Dog Breed?
  • 1. Mutt Dogs are (Often) Healthier
  • 2. You Can Literally Rescue a Dog
  • 3. Mixed Dogs are Smarter Than Purebreds
• 21 Unusual & Weird Mixed Dogs
  • 1. Horgi
  • 2. Pitsky
  • 3. Gerberian Shepsky
  • 4. Cavachon
  • 5. Goberian
  • 6. Chiweenie
  • 7. Pomsky
  • 8. Yorkipoo
  • 9. Border Aussie
  • 10. Bernedoodle
  • 11. Boxador
  • 12. Morkie
  • 13. Bullmatian
  • 14. Corgidor
  • 15. Beagador 
  • 16. Shi Chi
  • 17. Corgimatian
  • 18. Chusky
  • 19. Chug
  • 20. Golden Dox
  • 21. Chow Shepherd
• Where to Find a Mixed Dog
  • 1. PetFinder
  • 2. PetCo Foundation
  • 3. Adopt a Pet

Why Get a Mixed Dog Breed?

There are way too many reasons why you should get a mixed dog breed instead. I don’t want to spend a lot of time making my case, but here are my three favorite reasons:

1. Mutt Dogs are (Often) Healthier

This is a long-standing argument among scientists, researchers and veterinarians. But, the theory is very simple. More gene diversity in mutt dogs means they’re less likely to develop hereditary diseases and/or disorders.

The Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association did a study in 2013, involving about 90,000 dogs. They found that purebred dogs were more likely to develop 10 different genetic disorders, such as cataracts and hypothyroidism, compared to mutt dogs.

On the other hand, it can be argued that most of these genetic disorders are caused by recessive genes. This means that both parents would need the rarer recessive gene for the offspring to inherit these type of disorders.

2. You Can Literally Rescue a Dog

According to the ASPCA, roughly 70 – 75% of all dogs in shelters are mutt dogs. If you don’t give these mixed dogs a chance, then you’re essentially eliminating the vast majority of dogs in shelters. Needless to say, all dogs deserve a loving family.

Often times, they need a better situation even more. There’s nothing better than bringing home a dog you had just rescued from a difficult situation. They could have been abused, abandoned or severely neglected in the past.

Whatever the reason, you will be providing the rescue dog with another chance to be a dog in a loving and warm environment. And, you can bet they’ll love you even more for rescuing them.

3. Mixed Dogs are Smarter Than Purebreds

Surprise, surprise! Despite popular belief, mixed dog breeds are considered more intelligent than their purebred counterparts. At least, according to the scientific study conducted by Aberdeen University.

Researchers tested 100 dogs, both mutts and purebreds, using seven intelligence and psychology tests. These trials included complex mazes, spatial awareness tests and various problem solving tests. In the end, mutt dogs performed much better on these tests.

However, the breeds in the mutt were a significant factor. The best performing mutt was a collie-spaniel mix. Both of which, are highly intelligent dog breeds on their own.

21 Unusual & Weird Mixed Dogs

There’s essentially an infinite number of possible mixed dog breeds. It’s impossible to list them out. But, these are our favorite mixes. Everything from the Gerberian Shepsky to the Yorkipoo – we think you really need to see these 21 dogs!

1. Horgi

Parents: Welsh Corgi x Husky mix

The Corgi and Husky are perhaps two of the most popular dog breeds, at least among internet dog jokes and dog puns. It only makes sense to crossbreed the two, right? Call them the Horgi, Siborgi or even the Corgsky – whatever you prefer.

They’re energetic, affectionate and have lively personalities. There is never a dull moment with a Horgi. And although they can be a bit difficult to train, novice owners should have no problem with firm positive reinforcement during training.

A Horgi often has the body shape of the corgi – short legs and long body – but have facial features of the Husky. The most notable husky characteristic is the unique colored eyes, which appear in some Horgis, but not all.

What makes this crossbred so popular is that they retain most of the best physical characteristics from both breeds. The iconic short stature and legs of the Corgi paired with the fluffy curly tail and coat of a Husky, make this mutt such an adorable dog.

RECOMMENDED: The Guide to the Horgi

2. Pitsky

Parents: Pit Bull x Husky mix

Pit Bulls are often listed on top of the most dangerous dogs list. On the other hand, Huskies have a rep for being humorous dogs. Is there a combination of dog breeds more interesting than this?

The logical reasoning was to crossbreed the two and get a less serious (and potentially vicious) Pit Bull mix. And sure enough, the Pitsky being the combination of these two popular dog breeds achieves just that.

These mutt dogs retain the head shape, body physique and tail of the Pit Bull. However, the most striking husky features are the long propped ears and blue-ish white husky eyes. The ears may vary from dog to dog, but the eyes are usually noticeably unique.

Pitskies aren’t recommended for non-active owners or those who “don’t have much time.” Given their high energy levels, expect them to want to play play play. And despite all the talk of the “dangerous Pit Bulls,” Pitskies are more loving than you think.

RECOMMENDED: The Energetic and Playful Pitsky

3. Gerberian Shepsky

Parents: German Shepherd x Husky mix

The Gerberian Shepsky combines two of the hardest working dog breeds: the German Shepherd with a Siberian Husky. So it’s safe to say the Gerberian inherits this characteristic as well.

Gerberians are highly intelligent dogs that can thrive with a variety of roles. They have a sturdy frame with lightning-quick agility, making them excellent police dogs or companions for those with active lifestyles.

Despite their fierce looks, they’re quite affectionate, loyal and sociable. A Gerberian is an outstanding family dog and can even do well in an environment with children.

However, owning a Gerberian Shepsky is no easy task. Be ready to exercise as these dogs require a ton of physical and mental stimulation. You can try obedience training and fun dog games, such as frisbee.

They’re great pets for large families because everyone can participate in the responsibilities of these wonderful dogs. It makes keeping one much easier and manageable.

RECOMMENDED: The German Shepherd Husky Mix

4. Cavachon

Parents: Cavalier King Charles x Bichon mix

Among all mixed dog breeds, the Cavachon is by far the most sweet-tempered. A crossbreed of the Cavalier King Charles and Bichon Frise, the Cavachon is happiest in the lap of a loving owner. They are the ultimate lap dogs.

For owners that just want to cuddle all day with their dog, the Cavachon is for you. Highly adaptable, these dogs can thrive in any environment. The only thing they need is love and attention.

In recent years, Cavachons have quickly become one of the most popular mixed dog breeds. It’s because living with a Cavachon can be a life full of rewarding moments. They’re calm, quiet, sensible and optimistic – all the right traits for the ultimate companion dog.

Cavachons get along great with both children and adults. There’s not a single aggressive bone in these dogs. In fact, i’d probably worry more about the kids mistreating this dog than the other way around.

RECOMMENDED: The Ultimate Cavachon Guide

5. Goberian

Parents: Golden Retriever x Husky mix

Combining two of the most popular family dog breeds gives you a Goberian – the Golden Retriever Husky mix. They’re highly intelligent, extremely friendly and a little wacky. There’s just so much to love with a Goberian.

However, there are a few things to consider with the Goberian. Because of their double coat, a hot climate is not ideal for these mixed dogs. Plus, they need a good amount of exercise on the daily basis with a decently large backyard.

There can be a lot of variations in mixed dog breeds, including the Goberian. But one thing that is certain is their immense loyalty. They love their family and will always have their back.

Goberians are some of the best family dogs – mixed or purebred. If you’re looking for a companion dog, they can literally fit perfectly into any family.

RECOMMENDED: The Magnificent Goberian

6. Chiweenie

Parents: Chihuahua x Dachshund mix

The Chihuahua is the smallest dog breed in the world. In addition, the Dachshund isn’t much bigger. As a result, this awesome mixed breed weighs just 5 to 10 pounds and stands 12 inches tall at most.

If size is what you’re looking for in your mutt dog, the Chiweenie is not the way to go. However, if you’re looking for a lap dog with a bright personality, consider the Chiweenie.

When playing with kids, keep in mind how fragile the Chiweenie actually is. They’re small, so they may not appreciate playing with rowdy kids. Younger children that don’t understand how to interact with animals may not be best interacting with these dogs.

A Chiweenie is protective by nature. With that said, it’s especially important to provide socialization at an early age. Without any, they can develop into an aggressive dog in adulthood.

RECOMMENDED: The Fun-Sized Chiweenie

7. Pomsky

Parents: Pomeranian x Husky mix

There’s a lot to love with the Pomeranian Husky mix, or the “Pomsky” for short. They’re adorable, playful and a little bit silly. But most importantly, they love to be around people. Pomskies are the happiest with family and in the center of attention.

The one drawback of the Pomsky mix is grooming. You see that fluffy glamorous coat? Well, it takes quite a bit of time to groom as they shed like no other. Expect locks of fur around the house, especially during shedding season (spring, fall).

On the plus side, they highly adaptable. In fact, they’re perfect for apartment living given their small size. Obviously they’ll do fine in cold weather but they can also tolerate warm climate better than you think.

With a Pomsky, early socialization and obedience training is necessary. They can be aloof with strangers and may even develop aggression towards them without socialization. They aren’t the best with children, but can manage with proper training.

Still, the Pomsky is one of the best and most popular mixed dog breeds. With a fluffy coat and an affectionate temperament, it’s easy to see why.

RECOMMENDED: 35 Perfect Pomeranian Mixes

8. Yorkipoo

Parents: Yorkie x Toy Poodle mix

The Yorkipoo is truly a designer dog with some of the best qualities you can ask for. A cross between two of the most beloved toy dog breeds, the Yorkie Poodle mix is a playful and affectionate dog perfect for nearly any situation.

It doesn’t matter if you’re in an apartment or a large house, the key to a Yorkipoo’s happiness is a loving family/owner. They love to play and will play hard. On the other hand, they’ll be perfectly content relaxing from the comfort of your lap.

The only downside of this mixed dog breed is its tendency to bark. A Yorkipoo will often bark at anything and anyone. They’ll bark to communicate, bark to alert and bark when they’re happy. If you can’t stand this, then this breed may not be for you.

For those that don’t mind the barking, you’ll need the energy to match these dogs. Though small, Yorkipoos seem as if they have unlimited energy.

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9. Border Aussie

Parents: Border Collie x Aussie mix

What happens when you mix two of the best herding dogs in the world? You get the Border Aussie – the ultimate mixed breed for herding. Lazy owners be wary, this will be one of the hardest working dog breed you’ll ever meet.

Unless you live an active lifestyle or run a farm with animals, the Border Aussie is not the best choice for most people. They need a huge amount of daily exercise, which may not be easy for the average owner. And don’t even think about sticking them in an apartment!

Border Aussies are social dogs and are very affectionate with people. They can be the best versions of themselves when they have a specific task (or job) to do. This can be herding (duh) or even daily obedience training.

As long as they’re stimulated mentally and physically, the Border Aussie will be happy. However, these dogs really get more joy when they’re doing the activity with the owner. Still, I wouldn’t recommend this mixed breed for first time owners or novice trainers.

RECOMMENDED: 27 Amazing Aussie Mixes

10. Bernedoodle

Parents: Bernese Mountain Dog x Poodle mix

Big and fluffy, the Bernedoodle is one of the most loving companion dogs with a goofy personality. Not only are they intelligent and clever, but also calm. As a result, they’ve become popular mutt dogs among families all over the world.

The best part of these dogs is their ability to befriend anyone. They’ll be cautious around new strangers, but in no time, they’ll be playing with any friendly human. Bernedoodles are perfect for both children and elders, as they have a gentle side to them.

As for dog training, the Bernedoodle is easy to deal with, even for new and inexperienced owners. The Poodle side is probably where they get their smarts. However, the Bernese Mountain Dog side makes them very eager to please and learn.

Considering how much hair they have, they don’t really shed much. However, they still do especially during shedding season. If you’re looking for a hypoallergenic dog, the purebred Poodle may be a better option.

RECOMMENDED: 50 Adorable Poodle Mixes

11. Boxador

Parents: Labrador x Boxer mix

The Boxador is truly a unique blend, combining two very different yet amazing dog breeds. On one hand, the Boxer is playful and full of energy. On the other, the Labrador Retriever is loyal and affectionate. The Boxador gives you the best of both worlds.

It’s no surprise the Boxador is one of the most popular designer dogs in the world. In fact, both parent breeds consistently make the list of top ten most popular dog breeds.

Though athletic and energetic, the Boxadors are extremely friendly and affectionate towards people. Like many breeds, they love to be the center of attention and appreciate being involved with family activities.

Despite their friendly temperaments, the Boxadors play best with older children. They’re not aggressive by nature but their excitement can lead them into unintentionally knocking over a small child. Always supervise your kid’s play time with them.

For a family, Boxadors are some of the best mixed dog breeds on the market. You can’t go wrong and you’ll be lucky to own such a caring dog.

RECOMMENDED: 40 Loving Labrador Mixes

12.

Morkie

Parents: Yorkie x Maltese mix

The Morkie mix breed is a combination of two very popular toy dog breeds – the Yorkie and Maltese. The combination of the two gives you a small dog with a huge personality.

Originating from the United States, this mixed breed can vary greatly in appearance. Some may look more like the Maltese, while others more like a Yorkie. In addition, ears can be erect or floppy depending on which side the dog takes more from.

Despite the variance in looks, majority of Morkies come in a brown, black or white coat. Plus, they all have long, curly and soft hair. With that in mind, a Morkie requires daily brushing and it’s recommended they get a haircut every 2 months or so.

If you’re okay with grooming, a Morkie is a top choice for a designer toy dog. They tend to get attached to the owner(s) and have a playful and affectionate personality. They’re a little bundle of joy.

However, they can be a little stubborn at times, which is common among dogs in the Terrier group (Yorkshire Terrier side).

RECOMMENDED: 27 Adorable Yorkie Mixes

13. Bullmatian

Parents: Dalmatian x Bulldog mix

It’s not every day you run into one of these. The Bullmatian is the uncommon mix between a Dalmatian and Bulldog. Although rare, the Bullmatian deserves more publicity than they actually get.

As you can see, the Bullmatian takes the physical body shape of a Bulldog. However, their coats tend to always be spotted like a Dalmatian. They’re easy to identify if you ever come across one.

The best thing about these mixed dogs is their mild temperaments. They’re less aggressive than you think while having a charming personality once you get to know them. They can be loving and social creatures as well.

For some owners, the amount of energy they come with may be a turn off. Bullmatians are always filled with enthusiasm and demand a lot of attention from the owner.

However, if you can provide affection and plenty of play time, the Bullmatian is an excellent choice for a companion and family dog. They do great with both individual owners and families.

14. Corgidor

Parents: Corgi x Labrador mix

The Corgidor combines America’s most popular dog breed, the Labrador, with one of the internet’s most popular dog breed – the Corgi. What could go wrong? Absolutely nothing!

Corgidors have an unusual physical appearance. They’re not as small as the Pembroke Welsh Corgi, but often retain their signature short and stumpy legs. But everything about the head, from the droopy ears to the snout, resembles that of a Labrador Retriever.

The Corgidor is an excellent worker and often needs an active lifestyle to stay happy. Don’t mistake their short legs for lack of athleticism. They can run and jump with great agility.

Personality can vary and depends on how you train them, especially in puppyhood. Corgis tend to be a little protective and territorial, whereas Labs are affectionate and friendly to a fault. It’s likely a Corgidor will be somewhere in between.

RECOMMENDED: 32 Cutest Corgi Mixes

15. Beagador 

Parents: Labrador x Beagle mix

The Beagador is a hybrid of the Labrador and Beagle. For the most part, they look similar to a normal Lab. However, they tend to have larger ears, which is inherited from the Beagle side. In addition, they’re slightly smaller than purebred Labradors.

The “special skill” of the Beagle is tracking with its keen nose. And according to owners, that nose tend to carry over to the Beagador in most cases. Likewise, the friendliness and charm of a Labrador is usually seen with this mixed breed.

Beagles are often listed as one of the 10 least intelligent dog breeds. However, they’re just misunderstood because they’re so caught up with their sense of smell. The Beagador, on the other hand, is a bit more balanced.

Beagadors can be very affectionate and eager to please. For this reason, they’re usually much easier to train than a purebred Beagle.

RECOMMENDED: 30 Bizarre Beagle Mixes

16. Shi Chi

Parents: Shih Tzu x Chihuahua mix

A hybrid of the Shih Tzu and Chihuahua, the ShiChi has quietly become one of the most popular designer dogs in America. With its adorable looks and bright personality, the ShiChi has been winning the hearts of people all over the world.

Bred from two toy dogs, the ShiChi weighs between 5 and 12 pounds and stands no more than 11 inches tall. They have round heads with large almond-shaped eyes that’ll make any dog lover fall in love.

These dogs can vary in coat colors, as they come in black, white, cream, fawn, brown or a combination. In addition, length of the coat will depend on the parentage – some will have long hair and others short. As for long hair ShiChis, double coats with curly hair are typical.

Due to their small size, they are fragile dogs. And although they’re always down to play, small children can unintentionally hurt these dogs. Constant rough play can mentally affect these dogs, as they tend to have low tolerance for such play.

With proper socialization and obedience training, the ShiChi will be the perfect complement to any family.

RECOMMENDED: 30 Special Shih Tzu Mixes

17. Corgimatian

Parents: Corgi x Dalmatian mix

Of the all the hybrid dog breeds on this list, the Corgimatian may take the cake for the rarest. Blending the Dalmatian with the Pembroke Welsh Corgi will get you an unusual looking spotted Corgi. Still cute as any other mixed dog.

Because there are so few Corgimatians, there is little information on these dogs. However, we do know that the Corgi Dalmatian mix is good-natured with a playful attitude. In other words, they make fantastic companions for households.

These dogs are brimming with energy and eagerness to play. Depending on the parentage, Corgimatians can have herding instincts, coming from the Corgi side. If that’s the case, small kids should not play with this dog unsupervised.

If you’re lucky enough to find this unique mixed dog, consider the Corgimatian.

18. Chusky

Parents: Chow Chow x Husky mix

Often referred to as the Chowski, the Chow Chow Husky mix is one of the most unusual crosses in the dogdom. But similar to the savory sweet taste of peanut butter and jelly, it just somehow works.

The Chusky weighs up to 65 pounds and can be as tall as 23 inches. A large fluffy mixed dog is not a big surprise as both parents are the same. The main difference is the coat color, as the Chusky can come in brown, red, white, pied, cream or a combination.

Chuskies are also fantastic companions because they tend to develop a strong bond with the owner(s). Plus, they play well with older kids, especially those in the family. The downfall of their affection is their tendency to be overly protective.

To prevent an aggressive adult Chusky, make sure you provide a ton of socialization with both people and other dogs at an early age. They’ll grow up to be a much more balanced dog.

Like the parent Husky, this mixed dog breed has a ton of energy. Make sure you have the time to provide daily exercise for these dogs. Without sufficient play, they can become destructive.

RECOMMENDED: 30 Handsome Husky Mixes

19. Chug

Parents: Chihuahua x Pug mix

The Chug is a hybrid of two of the most amusing small dog breeds – the Chinese Pug and the Chihuahua. Both parent dogs are a little quirky in their own right, but shower the owners with a ton of love. The same can be said about the Chug.

Temperament and personality with this mutt can vary depending on factors. For the most part, these dogs can be a little hostile towards larger dogs (small dog syndrome). But with people, they’re fantastic companions.

Depending on parentage, a Chug can be a little stubborn when it comes to training. Even so, it’s still very important you properly train this dog. If they take more from a Chihuahua side, you could potentially see an aggressive dog in adulthood.

Chugs don’t require as much physical activity as other mixed dogs. Instead, they’ll be perfectly fine on an owner’s lap. However, they are playful by nature and would appreciate daily playtime. If Pugs are your thing, the Chug is a nice twist from your typical purebred Pug.

RECOMMENDED: 34 Classic Chihuahua Mixes

20. Golden Dox

Parents: Golden Retriever x Dachshund mix

Energetic and playful, the Golden Dox is the odd combination of the Golden Retriever with the German Dachshund. By crossbreeding a small dog with a large dog, you end up with huge variations in physical appearance.

For instance, a Golden Dox can be anywhere between 10 and 23 inches tall. Furthermore, they can weigh 30 to 60 pounds. It really depends on which side the mixed dog takes more from.

Regardless, these designer dogs are crazy active and demand a lot of physical activity and play time. But with their good-natured and spirited temperaments, it’s easy to find time to play with these dogs.

Although Golden Retrievers are furious shedders year round, the Golden Dox isn’t so bad. Grooming won’t take up too much time as daily brushing with occasional trimming is enough.

When you’re with a Golden Dox, it’s easy to fall in love at first sight. They’re adorable with a even more attractive personality.

RECOMMENDED: 40 Dashing Dachshund Mixes

21. Chow Shepherd

Parents: German Shepherd x Chow mix

Despite being a hybrid, the Chow Chow German Shepherd mix does not vary as much in appearance as other mutt dogs. However, the weight can range anywhere from 45 to 90 pounds depending on gender and parentage.

In almost all cases, the Chow Shepherd will inherit the coat from the Chow Chow. In other words, a Chow Shepherd will likely have fluffy yet dense hair. On the other hand, the tail, ears and body shape tend to be more like a German Shepherd.

Like the parents, the Chow Shepherd has a dominant personality and requires firm yet consistent training in the household. For this reason, they aren’t suited to play with smaller dogs (or pets) and kids.

They can be aloof at times and will be cautious around unfamiliar people due to their protective instincts. Chow Shepherds can make amazing guard dogs for your home in time. However, you’ll need a strong personality to keep up with them.

RECOMMENDED: 31 Great German Shepherd Mixes

Where to Find a Mixed Dog

Are you convinced yet? As mentioned, the best place to find a mixed dog breed is probably at your local animal shelter. More than half of dogs held in those facilities are mutts!

Still, with animal shelters you may be limited on choice. Not to worry, there are other ways to find mixed dog breeds.

1. PetFinder

PetFinder is one of the largest dog adoption platforms (they have cats and other animals too!) on the internet. The best part is that most of the dogs on PetFinder are mixed dogs.

Easily sort by location and breed – including mixed breeds. The benefit of being one of the top pet adoption platforms on the internet means they’ll provide a huge selection of dogs. There’s much more than you’ll find at your local shelter.

2. PetCo Foundation

Live near a PetCo store? The PetCo Foundation is a non-profit organization that regularly organizes adoption events at local PetCo stores. Sure, it’s similar to local shelters and you’re limited on choices, but if you’ve already checked the shelter then this is another option.

Currently, there are roughly 1,500 PetCo stores across the country, so you’re more than likely to find one near you. Also, check their website for adoption event schedules.

3. Adopt a Pet

Adopt a Pet is an online listing / database for pets (especially dogs) in both rescue groups and local shelters. It’s an easy and convenient way to look for dogs before driving to their temporary home.

This platform is highly reputable and big enough where you’ll find a great selection of dogs. Best of all, it’s filled with beautiful mixed dog breeds waiting for you to take them home.

Did we miss any great mixed breeds? Leave your favorite mutt dog in the comments section below!

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Mutt (Mixed) Dog Breed Information, Pictures, Characteristics & Facts

Breed Characteristics:

Adaptability

Adapts Well To Apartment Living

Contrary to popular belief, small size doesn’t necessarily an apartment dog make. Plenty of small dogs are too high-energy and yappy for life in a high-rise. Being quiet, low energy, fairly calm indoors, and polite with the other residents are all good qualities in an apartment dog. And you can find an awesome crate for your dog here to give them a little more personal space in your apartment.

• See Dogs Not Well Suited to Apartment Living

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Good For Novice Owners

Some dogs are simply easier than others; they take to training better and are fairly easygoing. They’re also resilient enough to bounce back from your mistakes or inconsistencies.

Dogs who are highly sensitive, independent thinking, or assertive may be harder for a first-time dog parent to manage. You’ll get your best match if you take your dog-owning experience into account as you choose your new pooch.

If you’re new to dog parenting, take a look at 101 Dog Tricks and read up on how to train your dog!

• See Dogs Who Are Good For Experienced Owners

Sensitivity Level

Some dogs will let a stern reprimand roll off their backs, while others take even a dirty look to heart. Low-sensitivity dogs, also called “easygoing,” “tolerant,” “resilient,” and even “thick-skinned,” can better handle a noisy, chaotic household, a louder or more assertive owner, and an inconsistent or variable routine. Do you have young kids, throw lots of dinner parties, play in a garage band, or lead a hectic life? Go with a low-sensitivity dog.

• See Dogs Who Have Low Sensitivity Levels

Tolerates Being Alone

Some breeds bond very closely with their family and are more prone to worry or even panic when left alone by their owner. An anxious dog can be very destructive–barking, whining, chewing, and otherwise causing mayhem. These breeds do best when a family member is home during the day or if you can take the dog to work.

• See Dogs Poorly Suited To Be Alone

Tolerates Cold Weather

Breeds with very short coats and little or no undercoat or body fat, such as Greyhounds, are vulnerable to the cold. Dogs with a low cold tolerance need to live inside in cool climates and should have a jacket or sweater for chilly walks. You can find a great jacket for your dog here!

• Click here to see Dogs Poorly Suited For Cold Weather

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Tolerates Hot Weather

Dogs with thick, double coats are more vulnerable to overheating. So are breeds with short noses, like Bulldogs or Pugs, since they can’t pant as well to cool themselves off. If you want a heat-sensitive breed, your dog will need to stay indoors with you on warm or humid days, and you’ll need to be extra cautious about exercising your dog in the heat.

• See Dogs Poorly Suited For Hot Weather

All Around Friendliness

Affectionate With Family

Some breeds are independent and aloof, even if they’ve been raised by the same person since puppyhood; others bond closely to one person and are indifferent to everyone else; and some shower the whole family with affection. Breed isn’t the only factor that goes into affection levels; dogs who were raised inside a home with people around feel more comfortable with humans and bond more easily.

See Dogs Less Affectionate with Family

Kid-Friendly

Being gentle with children, sturdy enough to handle the heavy-handed pets and hugs they can dish out, and having a blasé attitude toward running, screaming children are all traits that make a kid-friendly dog. You may be surprised by who’s on that list: Fierce-looking Boxers are considered good with children, as are American Staffordshire Terriers (which are considered Pit Bulls). Small, delicate, and potentially snappy dogs such as Chihuahuas aren’t always so family-friendly.

• See Dogs Who Are Not Kid Friendly

**All dogs are individuals. Our ratings are generalizations, and they’re not a guarantee of how any breed or individual dog will behave. Dogs from any breed can be good with children based on their past experiences, training on how to get along with kids, and personality. No matter what the breed or breed type, all dogs have strong jaws, sharp pointy teeth, and may bite in stressful circumstances. Young children and dogs of any breed should always be supervised by an adult and never left alone together, period.

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Dog Friendly

Friendliness toward dogs and friendliness toward humans are two completely different things. Some dogs may attack or try to dominate other dogs, even if they’re love-bugs with people; others would rather play than fight; and some will turn tail and run. Breed isn’t the only factor. Dogs who lived with their littermates and mother until at least six to eight weeks of age and who spent lots of time playing with other dogs during puppyhood, are more likely to have good canine social skills.

• See Dogs Who Are Not So Dog Friendly

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Friendly Toward Strangers

Stranger-friendly dogs will greet guests with wagging tails and nuzzles; others are shy, indifferent, or even aggressive. However, no matter what the breed, a dog who was socialized and exposed to lots of different types, ages, sizes, and shapes of people as a puppy will respond better to strangers as an adult. Remember that even friendly dogs should stay on a good, strong leash like this one in public!

• See Dogs Who Are Less Friendly To Strangers

Health And Grooming Needs

Amount Of Shedding

If you’re going to share your home with a dog, you’ll need to deal with some level of dog hair on your clothes and in your house. However, shedding does vary greatly among the breeds. Some dogs shed year-round, some “blow” seasonally, some do both, and some shed hardly at all. If you’re a neatnik, you’ll need to either pick a low-shedding breed or relax your standards. To help keep your home a little cleaner, you can find a great de-shedding tool here!

• Click Here To See Dogs Who Shed Very Little

Drooling Potential

Drool-prone dogs may drape ropes of slobber on your arm and leave big, wet spots on your clothes when they come over to say hello. If you’ve got a laid-back attitude toward slobber, fine; but if you’re a neatnik, you may want to choose a dog who rates low in the drool department.

• See Dogs Who Are Not Big Droolers

Easy To Groom

Some breeds are brush-and-go dogs; others require regular bathing, clipping, and other grooming just to stay clean and healthy. Consider whether you have the time and patience for a dog who needs a lot of grooming, or the money to pay someone else to do it.

• See Dogs Who Require More Grooming

General Health

Due to poor breeding practices, some breeds are prone to certain genetic health problems, such as hip dysplasia. This doesn’t mean that every dog of that breed will develop those diseases; it just means that they’re at an increased risk.

If you’re adopting a puppy, it’s a good idea to find out which genetic illnesses are common to the breed you’re interested in. You may also want to ask if your shelter or rescue has information about the physical health of your potential pup’s parents and other relatives.

• See Dogs More Prone To Health Problems

Potential For Weight Gain

Some breeds have hearty appetites and tend to put on weight easily. As in humans, being overweight can cause health problems in dogs. If you pick a breed that’s prone to packing on pounds, you’ll need to limit treats, make sure they get enough exercise, and measure out their daily food servings into regular meals rather than leaving food out all the time.

Ask your vet about your dog’s diet and what they recommend for feeding your pooch to keep them at a healthy weight. Weight gain can lead to other health issues or worsen problems like arthritis.

Dogs come in all sizes, from the world’s smallest pooch, the Chihuahua, to the towering Great Dane, how much space a dog takes up is a key factor in deciding if they’re compatible with you and your living space. Large dog breeds might seem overpowering and intimidating, but some of them are incredibly sweet! Take a look and find the right sized dog for you!

• See Medium Dogs
• See Small Dogs

Trainability

Easy To Train

Easy-to-train dogs are more adept at forming an association between a prompt (such as the word “sit”), an action (sitting), and a consequence (getting a treat) very quickly. Other dogs need more time, patience, and repetition during training.

Many breeds are intelligent but approach training with a “What’s in it for me?” attitude, in which case you’ll need to use rewards and games to teach them to want to comply with your requests.

• See Dogs Who Are Challenging To Train

Intelligence

Dogs who were bred for jobs that require decision making, intelligence, and concentration, such as herding livestock, need to exercise their brains, just as dogs who were bred to run all day need to exercise their bodies. If they don’t get the mental stimulation they need, they’ll make their own work–usually with projects you won’t like, such as digging and chewing. Obedience training and interactive dog toys are good ways to give a dog a brain workout, as are dog sports and careers, such as agility and search and rescue.

• See Dogs Who Have Lower Intelligence

Potential For Mouthiness

Common in most breeds during puppyhood and in Retriever breeds at all ages, mouthiness means a tendency to nip, chew, and play-bite (a soft, fairly painless bite that doesn’t puncture the skin). Mouthy dogs are more likely to use their mouths to hold or “herd” their human family members, and they need training to learn that it’s fine to gnaw on chew toys, but not on people. Mouthy breeds tend to really enjoy a game of fetch, as well as a good chew on a toy that’s been stuffed with kibble and treats.

Prey Drive

(Picture Credit: Haydn West – PA Images/PA Images via Getty Images)

Dogs who were bred to hunt, such as Terriers, have an inborn desire to chase–and sometimes kill–other animals. Anything whizzing by, such as cats, squirrels, and perhaps even cars, can trigger that instinct. Dogs who like to chase need to be leashed or kept in a fenced area when outdoors, and you’ll need a high, secure fence in your yard. These breeds generally aren’t a good fit for homes with smaller pets that can look like prey, such as cats, hamsters, or small dogs. Breeds that were originally used for bird hunting, on the other hand, generally won’t chase, but you’ll probably have a hard time getting their attention when there are birds flying by.

• See Dogs Who Have Low Prey Drive

Tendency To Bark Or Howl

Some breeds sound off more often than others. When choosing a breed, think about how often the dog vocalizes with barks or howls. If you’re considering a hound, would you find their trademark howls musical or maddening? If you’re considering a watchdog, will a city full of suspicious “strangers” put your pup on permanent alert? Will the local wildlife literally drive your dog wild? Do you live in housing with noise restrictions? Do you have neighbors nearby? Then you may wish to choose a quieter dog.

• See Dogs Who Are Mostly Quiet

Wanderlust Potential

Some breeds are more free-spirited than others. Nordic dogs such as Siberian Huskies were bred to range long distances, and given the chance, they’ll take off after anything that catches their interest. And many hounds simply must follow their noses–or that bunny that just ran across the path–even if it means leaving you behind.

• See Dogs Less Prone To Wander

Physical Needs

Energy Level

High-energy dogs are always ready and waiting for action. Originally bred to perform a canine job of some sort, such as retrieving game for hunters or herding livestock, they have the stamina to put in a full workday. They need a significant amount of exercise and mental stimulation, and they’re more likely to spend time jumping, playing, and investigating any new sights and smells.

Low-energy dogs are the canine equivalent of a couch potato, content to doze the day away. When picking a breed, consider your own activity level and lifestyle, and think about whether you’ll find a frisky, energetic dog invigorating or annoying.

• See Dogs Who Have Low Energy

Intensity

A vigorous dog may or may not have high energy, but everything they do, they do with vigor: they strain on the leash (until you train them not to), try to plow through obstacles, and even eats and drinks with great big gulps. These dynamos need lots of training to learn good manners, and may not be the best fit for a home with young kids or someone who’s elderly or frail. A low-vigor dog, on the other hand, has a more subdued approach to life.

• See Dogs With Low Intensity

Exercise Needs

Some breeds do fine with a slow evening stroll around the block. Others need daily, vigorous exercise, especially those that were originally bred for physically demanding jobs, like herding or hunting.

Without enough exercise, these breeds may put on weight and vent their pent-up energy in ways you don’t like, such as barking, chewing, and digging. Breeds that need a lot of exercise are good for outdoorsy, active people, or those interested in training their dog to compete in a high-energy dog sport, such as agility.

• See Dogs Who Don’t Need Tons of Exercise

Potential For Playfulness

Some dogs are perpetual puppies — always begging for a game — while others are more serious and sedate. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog.

• See Dogs Who Are Less Playful

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More About This Breed

• Choosing a mutt is a lot like dating: you may meet a few dogs that seem interesting, and then fall in love with one for reasons that make sense only to you. (Choosing a purebred, on the other hand, is a little like saying, “I only date blondes.” You can still find a love match, but you may end up overlooking someone who’s even more perfect for you.)

  The truth is, heritage matters very little. You’ll get along well with your dog because you both love to run, for instance, not because a piece of paper says he comes from a long line of dogs originating on the coast of Croatia.

  When you adopt a mixed breed you learn to think in terms of personality, rather than breed. This can have the effect of stripping away expectations and so you appreciate even more deeply the surprises and joys that come from living with a dog.

  Finally, since about 75 percent of the dogs in shelters on any given day are mixed breeds, choosing a mutt usually means giving a home to a dog who really needs one, and that’s nice, too.

• Highlights

  • Your mixed breed, as with all dogs, is an individual. Don’t prejudge his temperament according to his looks, or expect him to act a certain way just because he resembles a dog you once had as a kid. Love him on his own terms, and your love will be rewarded.

• History

  Once upon a time, before man imprinted his preferences on the canine population, there wasn’t much difference between one dog and the next. They were of medium size, brown, and most had short coats.

  Even today, semiferal dogs who live on the edge of human life look somewhat alike. Climate doesn’t seem to have much of an impact since similar-looking dogs show up from Australia to North America to Asia — though some have longer coats than others.

  When it’s hard to figure out a mutt’s heritage it may be because they draw directly from this line of non-breeds who were never selectively bred. That is, they’ve never had a purebred ancestor.

  But a lot of mixed breeds truly are mixed. That is, you can see a smattering of Australian Cattle Dog, or Beagle, or Collie in their coat or shape or size. Being able to identify contributing breeds can help give you some insight into their personalities, though of course it’s only a partial story.

• Size

  Size and weight range from tiny enough to sleep inside your jacket with you in it, to humongous enough to break your foot when he steps on it.

• Personality

  Mixed breeds boast personalities as unpredictable and varied as those of their human owners. As with purebreds, the mixed breed’s temperament is affected by a number of factors, including heredity, training, and early socialization.

  Some mutts’ heritage is impossible to decipher. If you find one particularly baffling, it may be because he comes from a long line of dogs who were never selectively bred. These mystery dogs are more accurately called non-breeds, than mixed breeds.

  But a lot of mixed breeds truly are mixed. That is, you can identify a smattering of Australian Cattle Dog, or Beagle, or Collie. This means it’s likely some of those breeds’ traits are carrying through.

  Sometimes that can work in your favor. A dog that appears to be a mix of Labrador and Border Collie, for instance, may have the easygoing friendliness of the first and the whip-smart agility of the second.

  Or not.

  With any blend, there’s no guarantee you’ll get the best traits of the contributing breeds. The only guarantee is that whatever you end up with is something unique and inimitable.

• Health

  Mixed breed dogs are generally considered healthier than purebred dogs because they draw from a broader gene pool. Producing a mixed breed, in other words, is the opposite of inbreeding.

  But you can’t assume your mixed breed will be the healthiest dog you’ve ever had. Having a fresh bloodline makes little difference if the parents aren’t healthy.

  If you can determine one or more of the breeds that went into your mixed breed’s heritage, it’s worth researching the health concerns common to that breed or breeds. And like all dogs, mixed breeds are prone to certain conditions and diseases.

  • Allergies: Allergies are a common ailment in dogs. There are three main types of allergies: food allergies, which are treated by eliminating certain foods from the dog’s diet; contact allergies, which are caused by a reaction to a topical substance such as bedding, flea powders, dog shampoos, and other chemicals; and inhalant allergies, which are caused by airborne allergens such as pollen, dust, and mildew. Treatment varies according to the cause and may include dietary restrictions, medications, and environmental changes.
  • Hip Dysplasia: This is an inherited condition in which the thighbone doesn’t fit snugly into the hip joint. Some dogs show pain and lameness on one or both rear legs, but others don’t display outward signs of discomfort. (X-ray screening is the most certain way to diagnose the problem.) Either way, arthritis can develop as the dog ages. Dogs with hip dysplasia should not be bred — so if you’re buying a hybrid puppy, ask the breeder for proof that the parents have been tested for hip dysplasia and are free of problems.
  • Cancer: Cancer can develop in dogs as well as humans. There are many different types of cancer, and the success of treatment differs for each individual case. For some forms of cancer, the tumors are surgically removed, others are treated with chemotherapy, and some are treated both surgically and medically.
  • Ear Infections: These are most common in dogs with long ears. You may be able to prevent many ear infections by keeping the ears clean and dry. Ask your veterinarian about appropriate ear care products.

• Care

  Everyone knows that dogs must have adequate food and water, shelter from the elements, and medical attention when needed. His other requirements may be harder to quantify, but they are just as crucial: mental stimulation, physical exercise, and plenty of positive contact with his owner.

  A leashed walk around the block is usually a sufficient bathroom break, but it isn’t enough exercise for most dogs. The majority need 30 to 60 minutes a day to stay in good shape. For some pups, this means off-leash, full-out running to burn off steam; some dogs enjoy a good long walk; others want to go play fetch in a lake. Whatever form of exercise your dog likes the most, he’ll be healthier for indulging in it.

  A dog’s mind needs exercise as much as his body does — the same “use it or lose it” philosophy applies to us all. Training is a mainstay of canine brain workouts. It could be as simple as playing games with you and learning to sit, or as complex as training for agility or obedience competitions.

  And whether it’s through playing, training, hiking, or petting, your dog needs a substantial daily dose of attention from you.

• Feeding

  Keep your mixed breed in good shape by measuring his food and feeding him twice a day, rather than leaving food out all the time. How much your adult dog eats depends on his size, age, build, metabolism, and activity level. As a general rule of thumb, you can estimate how much he needs each day based on how much he weighs:

  Less than 10 pounds 1/4 to 1/2 cup
  10 to 15 pounds 1/2 to 1 cup
  20 to 30 pounds 3/4 to 1.5 cups
  30 to 40 pounds 1.5 to 2 cups
  40 to 60 pounds 1.5 to 2.5 cups
  60 to 70 pounds 2.5 to 3 cups
  80 to 90 pounds 3 to 4 cups
  100 to 150 pounds 4 to 5 cups
  More than 150 pounds 4.5 to 6 cups

  Of course, dogs are individuals, just like people, and they don’t all need the same amount of food. It almost goes without saying that a highly active dog will need more than a couch potato dog. The quality of dog food you buy also makes a difference — the better the dog food, the further it will go toward nourishing your dog and the less of it you’ll need to shake into your dog’s bowl.

  It’s a good idea to consult with your vet if you’re not sure how much to be feeding your mixed-breed dog. And if you’re unsure whether your dog is overweight, give him the eye test and the hands-on test.

  First, look down at him. You should be able to see a waist. Then place your hands on his back, thumbs along the spine, with the fingers spread downward. You should be able to feel but not see his ribs, without having to press hard. If you can’t, he needs less food and more exercise.

  For more on feeding your mixed breed, see our guidelines for buying the right food, feeding your puppy, and feeding your adult dog.

• Coat Color And Grooming

  Mixed breeds come in all colors of the dog rainbow, and their grooming needs depend on what type of coat they have. Bathing should be done as needed for all breeds.

  • Long, low-shedding coat: This is hair, not fur, and unless you cut it, it continues to grow just like yours. Brush a few times a week with a pin brush, and trim or clip the dog every five to eight weeks or so. Yorkie/Westie mixes tend to have coats of this type.
  • Long, shedding coat: This is fur, because it sheds. Brush weekly, ideally with a pin brush, or more as needed (especially the armpits, which can mat). Golden/Lab/Australian Shepherd mixes tend to sport this kind of coat. (Make sure you have a really, really good vacuum cleaner.)
  • Short coat: Brush weekly in the direction that the fur grows. You can use one of those rubber curry brushes or a hound glove that fits on your hand — then your dog is fooled into thinking he’s being petted instead of brushed. Dalmatian/Boxer/Doberman mixes tend to have this kind of coat.
  • Curly coats: Again, this is usually hair, not fur — and it can be relatively high maintenance because of its fine texture. It must be clipped regularly. It’s easy to learn to clip a curly coat because the mistakes don’t show up much. (Go ahead — it grows back. And that’s what dog sweaters are for.) Use a slicker brush. Most Poodle mixes, including the Doodles and Cockapoos, have curly coats.
  • Wire coats: These coats shed. The shorter the coat gets, the more likely it is to mat and knot up, so leaving it longer means less matting. Use a slicker brush. Some wiry coats belonging to Terrier mixes need to stripped.No matter what the heritage of your mixed-breed dog, check his ears once a week for dirt, redness, or a bad odor that can indicate an infection. Also wipe them out weekly with a cotton ball dampened with gentle, pH-balanced ear cleaner to prevent problems.

  Brush your dog’s teeth at least two or three times a week to remove tartar buildup and the bacteria that lurk inside it. Daily brushing is even better if you want to prevent gum disease and bad breath.

  Trim his nails regularly if your dog doesn’t wear them down naturally. If you can hear them clicking on the floor, they’re too long. Short, neatly trimmed nails keep your legs from getting scratched when your mixed breed enthusiastically jumps up to greet you.

  Accustom your dog to being brushed and examined when he’s a puppy (or as soon as you get him, if he’s an adult). Handle his paws frequently — dogs are touchy about their feet — and look inside his mouth and ears. Make grooming a positive experience filled with praise and rewards, and you’ll lay the groundwork for easy veterinary exams and other handling down the road.

  As you groom, check for sores, rashes, or signs of infection such as redness, tenderness, or inflammation on the skin and feet or in the ears, nose, mouth, and eyes. Ears should smell good, without too much wax or gunk inside, and eyes should be clear, with no redness or discharge. Your careful weekly exam will help you spot potential health problems early.

• Children And Other Pets

  Some mixed breeds are great with kids and other pets, and some aren’t. Much of any dog’s relationship with children and animals depends on early exposure and socialization.

  Heredity is also part of the picture. If the mix is predominantly terrier, don’t bother trying to get him to live peaceably with small mammals such as rats and gerbils.

  But even if your dog is a Golden Retriever mix, that doesn’t mean he’ll automatically love everyone and every other dog. And just because your dog is a mix of big, intimidating breeds doesn’t mean he’s going to eat the neighborhood children. It also doesn’t mean he’s going to be okay around them.

  Who knows? Keep a watchful eye and a tight rein (not to mention a short leash) until you know for sure.

• Rescue Groups

  Dogs are often obtained without any clear understanding of what goes into owning one. Many dogs are in need of adoption and or fostering. If you want a mix involving a certain breed, contact the local chapter of that breed club, and they’ll be able to point you toward a rescue organization.

  Many times a purebred group such as an Irish Setter rescue will also take in Irish Setter mixes, if the dogs appear to be predominantly and identifiably Irish.

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These Mutts Will Win Your Heart

Did you know that just over half of the dog owners in the U.S. chose a mixed breed over a pedigree dog to be their canine companion?

Mutts have been working alongside pure breeds in essential roles such as the U.S. Coast Guard, and they now make up a large percentage of the country’s assistance dogs. So beloved are mutts that they now have their very own National Mutt Day that’s celebrated on both 1 July and 2 December. National Mutt Day is aimed at encouraging potential dog owners to consider taking a dog from a shelter.

In this article, we look at why you should give a mutt a forever home. Some mixed breeds are of uncertain parentage, but we’ve included ten of the most popular crossbreeds that are deliberately created for their temperament, character, and looks.

Contents

• 1 Adopting a Mixed Breed
• 2 Why They Are Called Mutts
• 3 Popular Mixed Breeds
  • 3.1 The Puggle
  • 3.2 The Maltipoo
  • 3.3 The Labradoodle
  • 3.4 The Goldendoodle
  • 3.5 The Maltese Shih Tzu
  • 3.6 The Cockapoo
  • 3.7 The Schnoodle
  • 3.8 Peekapoo
  • 3.9 The Yorkipoo
  • 3.10 The Goldador
• 4 Parting Thoughts

Adopting a Mixed Breed

1. You love surprises!

Every mixed-breed dog is one of a kind. Your dog will take some of his personality from both his parents but not necessarily in equal amounts. If you take on a puppy, you can enjoy watching him growing up and developing his unique character.

That’s great in an adult home, but if you have kids, it’s a good idea to find out as much as you can about your new puppy’s parents. Ideally, you should look for both parent breeds that are known to be good around children generally. You can even have your dog DNA tested to find out precisely what breeds have contributed to your pup’s makeup by checking out the SPCA’s “Who’s Your Daddy?” program.

2. Mixed-breed dogs enjoy good health and a longer life

It’s often said that crossbreed dogs enjoy better health than their pedigree cousins. And thanks to the diversity in a mutt’s genes, the “hybrid vigor” theory bears that out. A 2013 study published by the Journal of the AVMA involving 90,000 dogs found that some pure breed dogs are known to be at risk of ten hereditary health disorders.

That said, it’s important to remember that a puppy will inherit part of his genes from each parent. If both the parent dogs have the same inherent health problems, there’s a very good chance that your pup will have them too.

However, many pure breed dogs have a relatively short lifespan compared with that of mixed-breeds.

3. Mutts are more intelligent than purebreds

Now, you may think that a pure breed dog is bound to be smarter than a mutt. Well, according to a scientific study by Aberdeen University, that’s not the case! In the study, researchers tested 100 dogs, using tests that included having the dogs navigate their way through a maze! The results showed overwhelmingly that crossbred dogs are better at solving problems and have superior spatial awareness when compared to pedigree pups.

Interestingly, intelligence is heavily influenced by the parent dogs that make up the crossbreed. For example, the most intelligent crossbreed, according to the study, was the spaniel-collie cross. Golden retrievers, poodles, and Labradors are also among those breeds that get a gold star for coming top of the class!

4. Insurance for mixed-breeds can be cheaper

Pet insurance is usually less expensive for crossbreeds than it is for pedigree dogs. That’s for a couple of reasons. Firstly, as we’ve mentioned above, mixed breeds tend to be less susceptible to inherited disorders than their pure breed cousins.

Also, pedigree dogs have a value. For example, a purebred bulldog puppy could set you back anything from $1,500 to $5,000. That value can make pedigree dogs of all breeds a target for thieves, which is why insuring them can be so costly.

5. Rescue centers and shelters are full of mixed-breed dogs

According to statistics produced by the ASPCA, around 75 percent of the dogs currently living in rescue centers and shelters are crossbreeds.

But why?

Well, it’s not because mixed-breeds aren’t popular. After all, 53 percent of U.S. dog-owning homes have a crossbreed dog. Unfortunately, mixed breeds are much more likely to be born thanks to an accidental mating. Puppies from liaisons such as these are almost destined to finish up in shelters.

Because these unwanted pups’ origins are usually unknown, prospective owners don’t want to chance taking one on in case the dog’s temperament proves to be unsuitable. Tragically, that means that around 4 million dogs and cats are euthanized every year. Did you know that euthanasia is the most common cause of death in dogs under two years of age?

6. Crossbreeds live longer than purebred dogs

When a much-loved family pet reaches the end of his life, it can be heartbreaking to say goodbye. According to a Purdue University study of 23,000 dogs, the average age at death was much lower for purebred dogs than it is for mixed breeds. A crossbreed dog can live for an average of 14 years, while a purebred’s life expectancy is only around ten years.

Why They Are Called Mutts

Did you ever wonder where the word “mutt” comes from? Well, mutt comes from the old Middle English word, “mouton,” meaning a sheep. Mouton eventually mutated into the word, “muttonhead,” which was used as a derogatory term for a person of limited intelligence.

By the late 1800s, muttonhead had been shortened to, “mutt.” Since then, the word “mutt” has been used as an insult to a person and also to describe a dog of unknown breeding.

Popular Mixed Breeds

In recent years, so-called “designer” breeds have become extremely popular. Designer breeds are actually just mixed-breed dogs that have been deliberately created by using two purebred animals.

Here are ten of the most popular designer mixed-breed dogs around today:

The Puggle

The adorably cute puggle is a cross between a pug and a beagle. Puggles are small dogs, standing just over a foot tall and weighing in at around 18 pounds. These pups have a life expectancy of between ten and fifteen years. Puggles make great dogs for families, as they love children and other pets.

The puggle is intelligent and trainable, although they can be prone to barking, which could be an issue for you if you live in an apartment or have close neighbors.

The Maltipoo

The Maltipoo is a cross between a poodle and a Maltese. If you have limited space, a Maltipoo could be perfect for you, as they are small dogs, standing only eight to 12 inches at the shoulder and weighing from five to 20 pounds.

Maltipoos are smart little dogs that are also very affectionate and great fun. These pups love children and make ideal pets for elderly folk too. You can expect to enjoy up to 13 happy years with your Maltipoo, as they are quite long-lived.

The Labradoodle

The Labradoodle is about the most popular mixed-breed dog worldwide. The Labradoodle is a cross between a poodle and a Labrador retriever.

Labradoodles vary in size, but they are usually large dogs, standing up to two feet tall and weighing anything up to 65 pounds. Labradoodles have short, curly coats that don’t shed much, making this breed an excellent choice for a household that has allergy sufferers.

The Goldendoodle

The Goldendoodle is another large crossbreed that has a super personality and stunning good looks. The Goldendoodle is the result of crossbreeding a Golden retriever with a poodle.

You can expect to enjoy up to 15 years of love and devotion from your Goldendoodle. These are happy-go-lucky pups that thrive in a busy, active household.

The Maltese Shih Tzu

The Maltese Shih Tzu or Malt-Tzu is a beautiful crossbreed that grows to stand around 10 inches at the shoulder, weighing in at six to 12 pounds. These delightful mixed-breeds usually live to approximately 14 years.

The Maltese Shih Tzu is small and full of vigor. These pups love playing with kids and their short coats that don’t shed much, which makes them a good choice for folk with allergies.

The Cockapoo

The Cockapoo is a cross between a poodle and a Cocker spaniel and has the distinction of being the world’s first “designer dog.”

Cockapoos can be up to a foot tall at the shoulder and weigh up to 19 pounds. These charming dogs are highly trainable and very people-oriented. The Cockapoo can live up to 15 years and makes a superb family pet, being easy to train, loving, and loyal.

The Schnoodle

The Schnoodle is the result of crossing a schnauzer with a poodle. Schnoodles are quite small dogs, measuring up to a foot at the shoulder, and weighing anything from 20 to 75 pounds.

The Schnoodle is an ideal family pet, being bright, easy to train, affectionate, and full of life. Schnoodles are sturdy too and will happily join in games with your kids for hours. Like most crossbreeds, the Schnoodle can live for up to 15 years.

Peekapoo

The peekapoo is a cross between a poodle and a Pekinese. These cheeky little dogs are well-established as mixed-breed dogs, having been around for about fifty years or so.

The peekapoo is the ideal dog for you if you have limited space at home, as they stand under a foot tall and weigh from four to 20 pounds. Peekapoos are best-suited to singles, as they can be very much one-person dogs and are fiercely protective of the people they love. Your devoted little canine companion has a life expectancy of around 14 to 15 years.

The Yorkipoo

The Yorkipoo is a cross between a Yorkshire terrier and a miniature poodle.

If you’re looking for a tiny dog that loves to play but will sit happily on your lap too, the Yorkipoo could be just the pup you’re looking for. Yorkipoos grow up to a foot high and can weigh from four to 14 pounds. You can expect your Yorkipoo to live up to 15 years.

You’ll find the Yorkipoo to be a friendly, intelligent little dog that loves to play but is very gentle too. The one drawback to this breed is that they can be barkers, which may be an issue for you if you live in an apartment or a condo where you have near neighbors.

The Goldador

The noble, faithful goldador is the result of crossing a Labrador retriever with a golden retriever. The result of that crossbreed is a large, good-natured dog that can measure anything up to two foot tall at the shoulder and weigh from 60 to 80 pounds.

You’ll need plenty of space for a Goldador, as they’re much more suited to life in a large house with a big backyard. Goldadors are wonderful with kids and other pets, making them the ideal choice for an outdoorsy family who loves to spend time walking in the countryside. Your goldador will most likely be easy to train and quick to learn, but he will need plenty of exercise too.

Parting Thoughts

You don’t need to buy a pedigree dog to find your canine friend for life. Mixed-breed dogs are the most popular choice for American families for all the reasons we’ve outlined in this article.

If you want a mixed-breed dog, you could save a life by giving a forever home to an unwanted pup from a shelter, or you could buy one from a breeder if you prefer to know exactly where your puppy came from. Remember that every dog has his own unique personality, regardless of his parentage. However, you can gauge the likely temperament of most dogs from their parents, which is an essential consideration if you have young children in your family.

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The Difference Between a Mutt, Mixed Breed, or Designer Dog

By

Amy Shojai

Amy Shojai

Amy Shojai, CABC, is an animal behavior expert and award-winning writer with over 25 years of hands-on experience training and caring for cats and dogs. She has written 27 books on animal care, been named CWA Friskies Writer of the Year, and appeared on Animal Planet as a pet expert.

Learn more about The Spruce Pets’
Editorial Process

Updated on 06/08/22

Reviewed by

Juliane Evans

Reviewed by
Juliane Evans

Dr. Juliane Evans is a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine and Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist currently working as a relief veterinarian in general practice, treating companion animals. She is a licensed veterinarian in three states and is a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and North Carolina Veterinary Medical Association (NCVMA).

Learn more about The Spruce Pets’
Veterinary Review Board

There are so many types of dog breeds out there and lots of definitions that get thrown around. Many definitions actually mean the same thing, they just have different connotations (both negative and positive).

Understanding the Difference

To start with a basic understanding of dog breeds, it can be helpful to begin with purebred dogs. These are simply dogs that have registration papers that indicate both parents were registered and of the same breed. It has no bearing on the quality of the dog but simply means that particular canine is only one breed of dog.

Mixed breed or a designer dog is a different name for what is essentially a mutt. While the word mutt can have a negative connotation, it simply means that the dog’s parents were not registered and both parents are not of the same breed. These types of dogs come in a variety of coat types and colors, shapes, and sizes that rival any purebred dog.

Mixed Breed Dog Qualities

These dogs result from breeding different purebreds or other mixed-breed dogs together. Mixed breed dogs have no pedigree, and usually are the result of accidental matings. They’re usually not registered, although there are mixed breed registries that may offer some sort of documentation. Mixed breed dogs often superficially resemble a purebred. They can inherit all the best, or the worst, traits of their parents. It’s difficult if not impossible to predict what a mixed breed dog’s puppies will look like or how they’ll behave. Mixed breed dogs make wonderful pets, though. They are a popular choice for pets all over the world.

What’s a Designer Dog?

The term “designer dog” refers to an intentional mixing of breeds and is sometimes called a “hybrid” dog. These types of dogs are created by intentionally combining existing breeds to form new ones. Most existing dog breeds were created in this way and likely are hybrids. Many are so ancient, though, their origin is obscure.

A recent example of a designer or hybrid dog is the Labradoodle, purposely bred to take the low-shedding qualities of a poodle along with a Labrador’s temperament for a guide dog. Because Poodles come in three sizes, Labradoodle pups also vary in size and may be more like the Poodle or Labrador side of the family. Hybrid breeders are dedicated to establishing the variety as a true breed. They work to create a predictable type, working with generations of dogs.

The designer dog label today is used to market hybrid dogs, which may (or may not) be more healthy, cute, trainable, or other fill-in-the-blank claims. Shelters sometimes label mixed breeds as a designer breed to promote adoptions. Puppy mills jumped on the designer dog bandwagon to create boatloads of interesting mixes they sell for high prices.

A True Hybrid Dog

A rarer type of “true hybrid” is a dog that has been crossed with a wild animal, such as a wolf or coyote. These can be intentional pairings or may occur naturally in the wild. These types of animals are not usually recommended as pets, as they are a half-wild animal. Sometimes special permits are required if an owner is planning to keep one as a pet. Some breeders will charge inflated prices for these types of hybrids. Be wary of being scammed or ending up with an expensive and potentially dangerous animal in your home.

How to Select a Dog

The health and temperament of a puppy should weigh more heavily than any cute factor and marketing ploys. Don’t let a designer label or popular puppy fads get in the way of choosing a healthy companion—whether pedigree, mutt or designer breed, listen to your head as well as your heart. Any hybrid or designer dog is a mutt, but don’t let that connotation make you shy away from a pet that is a good match for you, your lifestyle, and your family. Certain dog breeds (for example, working breed dogs) have been bred historically for their behavior and skills to do certain jobs, and these traits may or may not be helpful for companion animals. Some breeds require more exercise, training, and time to keep healthy and happy.

Consider your lifestyle and how much time you can commit to a new puppy before making the decision to buy or adopt. If you work long hours, you may have to make arrangements for someone to let your puppy out for bathroom breaks, help in house-training, and exercise your puppy as he/she grows. Certain breeds also require more extensive and ongoing grooming care, which could require additional budgeting to prevent health issues. Consulting with your veterinarian and/or a dog trainer may be worth your time to help determine what kind of dog may be a more ideal fit for your lifestyle and environment.

Learning About Your Dog’s Genetics

If you do have a mixed breed or mutt dog and are curious about what breed or breeds your dog originates from, you may want to use a canine genetic test for your dog. With a simple saliva sample, the tests can provide information about your dog’s ancestry and the potential breeds that make up your dog. Some tests can also provide health information, especially as it relates to genetic markers that may be related to specific breeds that are in your dog’s DNA.

Mixed Breed Dog Dog Breed Profile

Main Content

1. Home

2. Dog Breeds

Form and Function

Sometimes called a hybrid, mutt or crossbreed, the mixed-breed dog is a beloved member of the canine family. Mixed-breed dogs run the gamut in size, shape, color, coat and pattern. Unlike purebred puppies that are the offspring of one breed of dog, mixed breeds are the kaleidoscopes of the canine world.

Ready to see what dogs fit you best? Take our short quiz to find out!

Breed Traits

Breed Attributes

Type

Mixed

Weight

Varies

Height

Varies

Family

Varies

Area of Origin

Worldwide

Date of Origin

Ancient times

History

Mixed breeds are steeped in history. With more than one breed in its bloodline, their ancestors are often a variety of two or more dogs. While a mixed breed dog’s lineage might be unknown, a designer dog’s line can generally be traced back, such as a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle combined to produce a Labradoodle.

Public perception of mixed breeds has evolved over the years. Some people believe they are less prone to certain illnesses. Due to their mixed breed lineage, the perception exists that less purebred genetic material may mean less genetic problems such as heart disease, hip dysplasia, and kidney disease.

The largest-ever DNA study of 330 breeds including 83,000 mixed-breed dogs and 18,000 purebred dogs revealed fewer mixed breeds are affected by disease-causing mutations versus purebred dogs.^[1] The study did show that although mixed breeds are less likely to develop certain disorders they “may still be carriers.”^[2]

Pride and enthusiasm for mixed breeds are evident with online and in-person celebrations of #NationalMuttDay, which calls attention to mutts while helping to save lives.

^[1] https://www.avma.org/javma-news/2018-06-15/study-reveals-genetic-diseases-mixed-breed-purebred-dogs

^[2] https://www.avma.org/javma-news/2018-06-15/study-reveals-genetic-diseases-mixed-breed-purebred-dogs

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Temperament

Variation in genes means, like their purebred counterparts, each mixed-breed dog’s personality is unique. They may gravitate more strongly to certain qualities if one of their breeds is more dominant. For example, two Puggles (a mix of Pug and Beagle breeds) similar in appearance may behave differently. One can be laid back like a Pug while the other is driven by a sense of smell like a Beagle.

Depending on their parental lineage, one particular breed may dominate the dog’s personality and temperament. Like human beings, dogs can take on the personality of one parent more than the other. Each mixed breed is one-of-a-kind, including puppies from the same litter.

Demonstrating both athletic prowess and skill, they compete in agility, disc dog events, dock diving, flyball and are trained as service or guide dogs. Challenging both mind and body, mixed breeds need an outlet to keep them happy and healthy.

The way they behave towards people, other animals and situations is a combination of environmental factors as well as inherited traits. Whether a mixed breed dog will behave more like their mother or father is a combination of pot luck and gene pool. Additionally, a dog’s personality often flourishes and changes once removed from a shelter environment.

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Upkeep

Like all dogs, mixed breeds should receive adequate exercise, veterinary care, a healthy diet, access to clean water, and regular bathing with nail clipping, brushing and coat maintenance.

Depending on the breeds in their gene pool, some mixed dogs may be couch potatoes while others are more athletic. They all should have some form of mental and physical activity that can be coordinated with a veterinarian’s guidance. A DNA breed test may help pet parents determine which diseases can affect their dog. Genetic screening can help determine a dog’s ancestry and provide further insight into breed-specific health, behavior and more.

Mixed breed dog coats range from thick and dense to short and sparse, and from shedders to non-shedders. Because their breed makeup is a mixed bag, appearance and temperament are diverse. Their uniqueness may help them adjust to a variety of home environments including city living, country life and everything in between. Whereas mixed breeds were historically viewed as less-desirable to some human societies, the creation of “designer dogs” has brought increased popularity to crosses not recognized as classic dog breeds.

As the mixed-breed dog is incredibly diverse, we’ve indicated a 3 on all highlights below. Keep in mind a mixed breed may be a 1 or a 5 in any of these – it just all depends on the dog!

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Health

Major Concerns: N/A

Minor Concerns: N/A

Occasionally Seen: N/A

Suggested Tests: DNA salivary testing to determine breed lineage to help in guiding veterinary care and testing.

Lifespan: Varies

Notes: Some rescues and shelters may have knowledge of the dog’s health history or any pre-existing conditions.

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Disclaimer

Note: While the characteristics mentioned here may frequently represent this breed, dogs are individuals whose personalities and appearances will vary. Please consult the adoption organization for details on a specific pet.

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Do you have a dog?

No breed (mutt) – description of the dog breed: character, behavior, size, reviews and photos

Traditionally, mongrels were not allowed to participate in dog shows, but in recent years, separate rings for mongrel dogs have begun to appear at some shows.

Your pet of unknown origin will bring you no less joy than a thoroughbred dog, and will be your devoted friend until the end of his days.

Character

The behavior of all dogs has been shaped by millennia of contact with humans and their way of life. As a result of this physical and social evolution, dogs, more than any other animal species, have acquired the ability to understand and communicate with people, to capture the mood of a person and read his emotions. Those who grew up on the street, these abilities are especially well developed. The ability to understand the mood of each person is the key to peace and physical well-being.

They are amazing empaths who can approach a crying stranger to comfort them or accept a game offer from someone they just met.

It has long been noticed that mongrels are well trained, able to build longer logical chains and have a better memory than most purebred dogs. Many mongrel dogs raised on the street are great at tricking or pretending to get treats.

The nature and temperament of any mongrel is determined by two things: origin and living conditions. If in the recent past a dog had a representative of a certain breed in the genus, this dog is more likely to show the qualities of that breed. For example, if one of its ancestors was a setter, most likely, this dog will have an increased interest in hunting and other activities where the sense of smell is most involved.

The conditions in which a dog grew up also play a huge role in its further behavior. A mongrel that grew up on the street will have a very different type of behavior than one that grew up in the master’s house.

Street dogs are usually characterized by distrust of people, well-developed ingenuity, the ability to quickly adapt to changing conditions and independence.

A domestic dog from birth will consider a person as a friend and its socialization will not take much time.

Breed standards

The size and appearance of mongrel dogs is very variable and completely unpredictable in puppyhood. You can’t know exactly what size a puppy will be until it grows up. Sometimes this creates some problems in the future: your small apartment may be too cramped for a pet that has suddenly grown to the size of a dog.

However, there is a way to determine the approximate size of your dog by measuring the puppy’s feet. The larger the puppy’s legs compared to its body, the larger it will become when it grows up. By four months, the dog will usually grow to about two-thirds of its final adult size.

Although mongrel dogs come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes, they all belong to the same species, are genetically identical and have the same anatomical structure.

All dogs have two sets of teeth. The 28 milk teeth erupt at 6-8 weeks of age, and by the time the puppies are 6-7 months old, all of the milk teeth have been replaced by 42 adult teeth. Permanent teeth include incisors for biting, canines for tearing meat, and premolars and molars for grinding food.

Dogs are animals that can run well (with the exception of some breeds bred specifically for certain purposes). The design of the bones of the shoulder and pelvis and the way they articulate with the bones of the legs and spine make it easy for most dogs to run and jump.

Outbred dogs have all three basic coat types: short (like a Pointer or Doberman), medium (like an Irish Setter or Siberian Husky) and long (like a Maltese). Within these categories, coarse or soft wool is found.

Mongrel dogs come in a wide variety of colors: plain, with spots of various colors and shapes, mottled, tan, etc.

Everyday care of your dog is essential to his health and well-being. The dog’s coat forms a barrier between the environment and the skin.

Grooming improves the beauty and well-being of the dog and gives the owner the opportunity to assess the general condition of the dog.

Care for the coat, eyes and teeth is just as important for a purebred dog as it is for a purebred dog. What’s more, it often helps to build a faster and closer bond with the dog, providing a pleasant and relaxing means of communicating with him through touch.

Most dogs (and yard terriers are no exception) shed seasonally: in spring and autumn. This is a natural phenomenon, which is largely dependent on the amount of daylight. In autumn, when the days get shorter, the dog’s coat will become thicker and longer. In the spring, after molting, the coat grows thinner and shorter. Dogs with long and thick coats need more frequent grooming than short-haired ones.

The temperature of keeping has a strong influence on the amount and thickness of the dog’s coat. If a dog lives in a warm climate or is indoors throughout the year, its coat will be much sparse and with less undercoat than those living outdoors or in cold climates.

Many dogs, especially taken from the street in adulthood, are very afraid of bathing. To get your dog used to this process, find a way to make it fun and enjoyable. You should not drag your dog to the bathroom on a leash, as it will be even more scared and may dislike this procedure forever. Play with your dog, treat him to something tasty and wait until he enters the bathroom on his own.

Outbred dogs often have hanging ears, which need to be cleaned somewhat more often than erect ears. Regardless of your dog’s size and appearance, he also needs to have his nails trimmed and his teeth cleaned regularly.

For a purebred dog, as for a purebred dog, regular grooming is an important part of maintaining good health. Weekly grooming of ears, coat and nails gives owners the opportunity to examine their pets and identify possible diseases in time.

Conditions of detention

If you are going to get a purebred dog, you must understand that you take on exactly the same responsibility as when buying a purebred dog. Dogs live an average of 10-13 years (small dogs a little longer), and you should be prepared to take on the role of owner throughout that time.

Think carefully about the amount you are willing to spend on a dog every month, estimate the amount of free time, the size of your house or apartment, readiness for long walks and physical activity. After that, it will become much easier for you to understand what type and size of a mixed breed dog you can take in order to provide it with the necessary conditions for keeping it.

It doesn’t matter if you choose a huge stern dog or a small touching mongrel, any dog ​​will need everything that its purebred fellows need: proper nutrition, regular grooming, visits to the veterinarian, education, training, long walks and, of course, communication with your owner.

Many mongrel dogs are so attached to the owner that they are almost unable to be alone. Provide your dog with enough toys, a good walk with him before leaving for work, and in time he will learn to be alone at home, calmly waiting for your return.

Weaknesses of health

As a rule, due to the diversity of genes and passing through harsh natural selection, purebred dogs are much less susceptible to many hereditary diseases. But mongrels also have health problems.

First of all, these are external and internal parasites that can greatly weaken the dog’s body. Animals that have lived on the street for a long time can have injuries and injuries, diseases of the digestive tract, liver and kidneys, as well as mental problems. You should be prepared to take your pet to the veterinarian immediately if you have taken it outside.

Large mongrel dogs may experience the same musculoskeletal problems as their purebred counterparts. All dogs, regardless of their size and type, can have skin and eye diseases, cancer, heart disease, etc.

If you have a purebred dog, this does not mean that it does not need to be regularly examined by a veterinarian, vaccinated and, if necessary, tested. A healthy dog ​​will repay you with boundless love and be a source of joy for years to come.

The life expectancy of mutts is also generally higher than that of purebred dogs.

Nutrition

Feeding a purebred dog should be based on the same principles as feeding a purebred dog. No leftovers from your table, boiled bones, salty, sweet or fatty foods. Don’t let your dog bite you, begging for food between meals. Give her either high-quality ready-made food, or cook food yourself, after reading how to do it right.

An active adult dog is usually fed in the morning and evening. If you have a not very athletic dog that mostly lies on the couch, one of the feedings can be replaced with kefir or yogurt.

History of the breed

Archaeological sites in England dating back 500,000 years show a close relationship between the ancestors of humans and dogs. Homo heidelbergensis, from which the Neanderthals and later modern man descended, trained wolves to hunt and protect them from the lions, hyenas and bears that roamed the earth. In return, the wolves were given food and shelter. Thus began the symbiosis of man and dog.

With the advent of the Stone Age, Neanderthals spent their free time teaching wolves how to hunt and guard their homes. They carefully selected wolf cubs to breed the most intelligent and least aggressive helpers.

This selective breeding eventually led to the animals we now call dogs.

By the Bronze Age, which was around 3000 BC, there were five different types of dogs: sheepdogs, hunting dogs, spitz-dogs, greyhounds and great danes.

The Romans were the first to have dogs as pets. The relationship between man and dog became so close that people began to take their dogs on hikes in Europe. Traveling around the countries, they collected all kinds of breeds of these animals and brought them to their cities.

But soon after the fall of the Roman Empire, interest in dog breeding and training waned, leading to a lot of uncontrolled mating. So there was a huge number of mongrels who roamed the streets of cities.

During the Crusades, rats were a huge problem, and to prevent the spread of disease, the peasants began breeding small breeds of vicious dogs that could chase and kill these pests. They were the ancestors of modern terriers, hounds and spaniels.

Then came shepherd dogs, sled dogs, a huge number of hunting, decorative, service breeds. With the development of civilization, the number of breeds of dogs has constantly increased. But along with this, the number of mongrels also increased, the reproduction and number of which no one followed.

Most often, mongrel dogs served to protect dwellings, but sometimes they could be seen hunting, and in a team, and next to a shepherd.

With the development of science, mongrel dogs began to be used as experimental animals, and it is to them that mankind owes many discoveries in various fields.

• The common mongrel Laika is the first animal in the world to be put into Earth’s orbit. The design of the apparatus was such that it excluded the return of Laika to Earth. When selecting candidates for this flight, the designers set a maximum dog weight of 6-7 kg, but small breed dogs were not suitable for this purpose: they lacked stamina, many were spoiled and demanding on food. Therefore, for the flight, it was decided to select small mongrels from animal shelters. In total, more than 50 outbred dogs participated in the conquest of space.

• In the middle of the last century, a monument was erected in Florence to the outbred dog Fido, who every day for 14 years came to the bus stop to wait for his master, who died during the bombing in World War II. The inscription on the monument reads: “Fido – the model of devotion.”

• Actor Orlando Bloom brought the black mongrel dog Saydi from filming in Morocco. He was walking around the local market, saw a little hungry puppy in a box and immediately realized that he needed to be rescued. After going through a long process of all the necessary paperwork, Bloom brought the puppy to America. Now the actor can be seen with Saydi not only on a walk and in a cafe, but also at concerts.

A bit about mongrels | Shelter for homeless animals SWAD

1. Health.

Less painful. Has innate immunity.

In pedigreed dogs, one can often find certain hereditary diseases characteristic of this breed, this, unfortunately, is a fact. For the most part, mutts do not suffer from this, unless one of their parents is close to thoroughbreds.

2. Intellect.

Each breed was bred FOR SOMETHING, that is, those instincts, those characteristic features that justify the existence of this breed are initially laid down in it. Therefore, based on these underlying mechanisms, training proceeds for the most part almost like a scenario, which is adjusted to the characteristics of a particular dog, but in general, for each type of breed, this scheme exists. The mongrel does not have this laid down scheme. A mongrel is a tabula rasa, that same blank slate on which you can write whatever you like: what you mold from it is what you get in the end. Plus to this (in many respects, for the same reasons) training is based largely not so much on conditioned reflexes, but on the dog’s understanding of the current situation. Why are shepherd dogs the smartest of all purebred dogs? Yes, because it has historically developed in such a way that the dog should be able to make decisions on its own. And no reflexes will help here. The same with the mongrels, and they really occupy a deservedly high place in terms of intelligence.
Most of the surveyed owners of purebred dogs (53%) assess the trainability of their pets as significant and very strong. But in terms of intelligence, outbred dogs are ahead of everyone – 84% of respondents say that their dogs are very smart. In terms of independence of behavior, mongrels and mestizos are second only to Caucasian shepherd dogs, leaving far behind other thoroughbred dogs. Outbred dogs very quickly learn the rules of “behavior at the table” – good habits. In this they are second only to Caucasian Shepherd Dogs and Giant Schnauzers.

3. Security qualities.

Excellent watchdogs. Large mongrels make excellent watchdogs. It is better to take a mongrel to a private house, they are more hardy.

Watchdog qualities of outbred dogs: barking at a stranger or noise outside the door is less pronounced than in most service dogs, but still more significant than in Dobermans, Boxers and collies. 53% of mongrel owners described this trait as very pronounced.

In terms of their ability to protect the owner or protect the territory, purebred dogs are also inferior to many working dogs, but they turn out to be better than collies and boxers. Nevertheless, 23% of the mongrels are good bodyguards, and 45% are good and excellent guards of the apartments and cottages entrusted to them.

4. Devotion.

Devotion is a separate issue. Any dog ​​with the right upbringing is devoted to its owner to the last. Her love is something that a person can be 100% sure of, it’s something that you can’t buy for any money. It doesn’t matter if it’s a purebred dog or not. If you are one family, if you are a leader in your relationship, strong, wise, fair and understandable to a dog, you will be adored until the end of your days, no matter whether it is a small lapdog or a huge wolfhound.

5. Character, soul.

As for sociability, outbred dogs are just gossips. Only East European Shepherds are more sociable. Mutts are more fun and more playful than Giant Schnauzers, Rottweilers, Shepherd Dogs. In addition, mongrels and mestizos are more affectionate than Giant Schnauzers, German Shepherds, Black Terriers and Caucasian Shepherd Dogs. Feeding outbred dogs is cheaper for their owners than for many pedigreed dog owners.

6. Uniqueness and uniqueness.

Mongrel is a unique dog. Those who love originality can be sure that you won’t find another one like it!..

Who are the mutts?

This group is the most numerous, perhaps more than all other breed groups combined. Biologists call the representatives of this order “complex polyhybrids”, and we, the townsfolk, are simply mongrels. They do not have any laws and standards, they are big and small, long-legged and squat, shaggy and smooth, funny and sad … They are so different from each other, because they are not a breed, cynologists do not care about their exterior, they do not participate in dog shows, do not receive diplomas and medals. But they live next to us and many of us would not exchange them for any of the most beautiful thoroughbred dogs. And if you think about it, we create the mongrels ourselves. Often people take a baby puppy into the house – pretty, playful, affectionate. The puppy is growing up and, like any living creature, requires time, attention, mental and material costs. It was so nice to play with a puppy, but an adult dog is no longer amusing, sometimes even annoying, requiring time, which is already short. The easiest way to get rid of an unnecessary dog ​​is to kick it out into the street, especially if it got for free. And it happens that in the summer they take a puppy to the country. But the summer ends, and the city apartment is not a dacha, all the necessary things are packed, and the dog, as an unnecessary thing, remains at the closed porch. And she waits, waits, waits … She does not believe that those whom she loved so much, to whom she was so devoted, could cruelly deceive her. There are other reasons why homeless animals appear, but they are all alive, capable of both feeling and experiencing. Finally, they just want to eat, they need warmth in winter.

Not everyone treats mutts the same way. Many outbred dogs live in houses and city apartments, are considered family members, love their owners, are loved by them and want to be useful, doing everything that their canine capabilities are capable of. And people do not regret that they keep mongrels, they are also a “complex polyhybrid”, they have the features of many dogs, even high-breed ones. Over the years, the mutts developed stamina, acquired endurance, became unpretentious, independent and resourceful; the blood of noble ancestors gave them their qualities. In Siberia, outbred dogs – the so-called Laykoeds – are excellent hunters, in the North they are wonderful sled dogs, in the Caucasus, along with sheep dogs, they are good shepherds. And as artists, mongrels perform in many circuses. The mutts are perfectly trained, easily attached to a person and are very grateful to him for showing attention and affection, they are smart and no less noble than canine aristocrats.

Of course, mutts can be dangerous. But the point here is not even whether it is a mongrel or a thoroughbred dog, it’s just that the former often find themselves in a hopeless situation and are forced to defend themselves. United in flocks, they live in wastelands, a feral flock is aggressive and uncontrollable. Since all dogs are predators by nature (they have the blood of their ancestors of wolves), without a person they regain their ancient predatory instincts, and the qualities brought up in dogs by people over the centuries – quick wits, courage, resourcefulness, dexterity, etc. the benefit of man. In addition, such dogs are not afraid of people, they know their temper and habits well, which allows them to calculate his actions. But this is a dog’s way of dealing with a heavy lot, to which, again, a man has doomed them. If he treats the mongrels as they deserve, they will respond with loyalty. The mutts proved this during the war, serving as excellent signalmen and orderlies, mine detectors and sled dogs. A mongrel is a dog. And the dog is real! And she, too, is a “worthy member of society” if society does not throw the dog overboard. As for the fear of many that mongrels spread the infection, this is an exaggeration. There are no more infections in them than in any other dog, you need to follow the rules of personal hygiene when communicating with any dog. But the danger is still there. A betrayer of a dog can become infected with the most dangerous disease of the soul, it is called callousness, selfishness, cruelty. The consequences of such a disease can be very severe.

Read online Gerda. The story of a mongrel, Vladimir Valeryevich Zemsha – LitRes

In the bloody glow of sunset,

In the agony of death,

Dead puppies are lying,

Cruel will of the people.

Fluffy lumps lie down,

Their souls howl and whine.

Mother and little daughters are here

We pressed the skins row by row.

They do not frolic on the lawn.

The sun will not rise over them.

And the voice of a loving hostess,

They will never be called

Electrocuted and forgotten.

Among the tires burned

But one day there will be evens,

And evil for evil avenged!

Sorry, dear friends,

Murder is fierce!

Weeping over you with howling blizzards

And the evil crow is circling.

V. Zemshha, December 2014

© Vladimir Valerievich Zemsh, 2021

ISBN 978-4474-0663-9

Created in the intellectual publishing system Ridero

Vizg of Vizg. apartment skyscrapers, echoing off the gray concrete walls.

There was a low scolding, stomping, some kind of fuss.

– Hold her!

– Why are you grinning, you bitch tribe!

– Come on, come on! Don’t rip!

– Get her!

Two men in blue overalls with orange accents were dragging a stubborn, beige, or, as dog breeders say, fawn, dog, on whose head strangleholds were thrown.

These two smelled distinctly of some mixture of sweat, adrenaline, gasoline, metal, and yesterday’s tobacco and vodka fumes. The dog looked frightened into their angry dots of pupils directed at her, shaking her head desperately, resting her paws. My heart was pounding. The dog’s eyes dimmed from stress. Metal bolts clanged. The doors slammed shut. It became dark. The smells of gasoline and old-fashioned dog fear, from which the whole space seemed to ring here, hit her nose. The spitting hum of the starter was picked up by the engine, and the entire metal belly of the dogcatchers was filled with shaking movement …

Some barefoot man in tights, bare to the waist, furiously glaring at the receding Gazelle, rushed after him, shouting and waving his arms.

– Gerda-ah! … Stop!

… About a year earlier

– Yes, drown these rootless creatures, – a decent-looking woman, looked from the porch towards the doghouse at wrinkled, defenseless puppies, poking their squeaking muzzles into their mother’s black velvety belly.

– Well, Bug, you filthy dog! Worked up offspring from Pirate! – the woman added and shifted her gaze to her husband, who was scurrying around nearby.

Pirate, this was a red-coloured neighborhood guard dog. On the gates of this house was written: “Caution! Angry dog! ”, Which is fully consistent with what was written. Although it would be difficult to say exactly who was meaner in this house, the dog or its owner, raising his pet to his “style”!

The bug, guiltily lowering her head to one side, looked inquisitively from the booth into the eyes of the hostess, as if trying to catch her fate and the fate of her offspring in them, then, yawning, from a surging feeling of anxiety, she turned away, looking for dog-like reconciliation. With her instinct, she understood that something did not suit her mistress. But what is it exactly? She began to lick the squeaking lumps with zeal, sniffing each one.

As she felt, these defenseless creatures came into the world precisely in order to become the object of her care and protection. Maternal instinct demanded from her complete dedication for their sake. But just what do her mistress and owner think about all this? What’s next? What will be next? However, it is not common for a dog to look into the distant future. So she was only worried about the next moment. Like any dog, she easily distinguished her shaggy fellow tribesmen from people, however, the latter seemed to her some special varieties of omnipotent dogs, to serve which her vocation was a rootless yard dog who spends his life, if at all lucky to have owners, on a chain around his booths. She was more fortunate than the neighbor’s Pirate, whom the owner kept in tight rein, being convinced that kindness only “spoils the dog.” Therefore, not only did he not indulge her, but generally kept others at a decent distance from her, forming in the dog’s head the “image of the enemy” around, even in the face of his own neighbors! So the Bug is actually lucky! Its owners were, in principle, compassionate, sometimes let them off the chain, let them frolic. And the owner even sometimes took her to the forest with him. A forest full of such expanse! The owner in the forest, unlike her, did not run and did not frolic. He did things there that were completely strange to her. But she willingly threw herself into the water after the stick he had thrown, happily jumped out onto the sandy shore, furiously brushing off her black hair. The world around was filled with such a longed-for rainbow of smells of plants and life, the enchanting aroma of other dogs, each of which beckoned her to him like a magnet, sometimes depriving her of peace, especially in spring. From time to time, she was irresistibly drawn to her shaggy brothers. It was hard to understand why. But what can you do against instinct! Yes, yes, precisely, the instinct laid down by mother nature, by the will of which, she was so strongly drawn to this freedom, full of unknown adventures. She no longer remembered her mother at all. After all, they broke up so long ago! About two or three years ago. What can you do!

(Dogs quickly forget both their parents and children. This happens as soon as the grown-up “hairy” puppies cease to need maternal care. But with a dog’s attitude towards a person, the situation is different. Dog devotion to his master has won not only general fame, but also became the standard of selfless selfless fidelity that does not require much in return.)

Now the Bug has become a mother for the first time, and the world appeared before her from a new, completely unknown before side. Now she is not the old carefree young bitch looking for adventure, but a sedate mother. She breathed frequently, her mouth open, her tongue hanging to one side, licking her lips from time to time. Puppies crawled around in the underbelly.

– Neighbor! Listen! – the owner of the Pirate leaned out from behind the fence.

He was a heavily built man of about forty-five, he always moved confidently like a lion, his eyes were filled with cold ruthless cruelty. Looking at him, it seemed that there was nothing in the world that could shake the hard heart of this man.

Seeing the Beetle, he stopped short.

– Oh, this one, did your scholi bitch whelp?

– Thank you, neighbor, and your dog!

– Yes, okay! Always pity! Here you are, a request to you.

– What is the request, neighbor?

– Yes, yes! Here, you throw a sausage to my Pirate, and if he comes up to you, you beat him with a stick. Not very much, current. Yeah?

– What are you, neighbor? What is needed?

– Yes, on that one, I train my own dog, he took the current from his own food.

– Well, neighbor, do as you like, but I’m your neighbor! I won’t beat your dog!

– Aaah, – he beckoned with his hand, – you don’t understand anything!

This man, of all living creatures, if he loved anyone, only dogs, the rest – exclusively tied to a tree in the form of a hunting trophy. His soul exuded an evil spirit, reflected in the expression of his face, which gradually became like an evil mask, reflecting the essence of this person. After all, it’s not for nothing that they say that “at twenty we have the face that nature gave us, at thirty we have the one we made ourselves, and then the one we deserve.” What did this person deserve? After all, he got satisfaction from killing animals, which he loved only as targets, and dogs, for him, were only servants serving his whims. For this, he kept the dog in “hedgehogs”, set badgers and other living creatures on badgers, developing aggressiveness in it.

So, the angry neighbor disappeared. The owner just grinned after him: “Well, what a man!”

– Claudia, where is the bucket? – the man returned his thoughts to his problem, resolutely approached the booth. Stumbling over a chain, he stepped into dog feces and swore angrily.

– Well, Bug, she has worked up her offspring, and now I’m here …! – he banged his fist on the booth, furiously, with disgust, wiping his sole on the ground.

He was extremely unhappy that it was he who now had to do this dirty, foul work! But what can you do, is he a man or not a man, in fact ?!

The dog shuddered and pressed its head to the ground. She looked at the owner, trying to catch the reason for his displeasure, without understanding anything, she began to lick the babies again. Perhaps assuming that this is exactly what her beloved master expects from her. She could only allow him to her squeaking babies, in whom her trust was boundless. She watched as the owner took one after another, only her heart was beating hard in excitement. Deprived of maternal warmth, they twitched their paws, opened their little pink toothless tweeter mouths.

– Oh! What-and-e ma-a-scarlet! – the eight-year-old master’s son appeared and extended his hand.

– Go, go, go, son, go! The father turned to his wife. – Mother! Well, what are you? Where are you looking?

– Dad, let me see-th-th! the boy continued.

– Give it to the child! supported the son’s mother. – Let him play.

– I want this light one! The boy perked up.

– Let’s play! Well, you know-and-eat! – the father, displeased, pulled one of the squeakers out of the bucket and handed it to his son. – Hold on, Petka, yours, – and, obviously freaking out, continued his former path to the sink …

The bitch pulled the shortened chain to a suffocating weight in the collar. She stood, tensely looking out for the owner who had gone around the corner. She was breathing heavily through her open mouth. Drops of saliva often fell to the ground. Swollen “nipple rows” sagged under the belly, waiting for those for whom they were prepared. But it’s all in vain. Vain and useless are the dog’s bitter tears, quietly rolling down the throat and eating away the heart with their silent anguish of hopelessness. Those dog eyes, full of hopeless sadness, looking at you guiltily, with hope and bitter reproach…

(Some will say that this is snotty nonsense, because dogs do not know how to cry, but only those who are hopelessly infected with the “leprosy” of blind arrogant cruelty, the retribution for which will inevitably come. After all, a person becomes a person exclusively through virtue and capacity for compassion, human compassion!)

Soon the owner returned, spat on the ground, and threw the empty bucket into the shed. The sun shone brightly. Birds chirped in the branches of the trees, fussing about their chicks. Butterflies fluttered, mating. All nature seemed to be preoccupied with one thing… The water surface of the puddle, arrogantly covered with swell, indifferently reflected the blue sky. And in the putrefactive compost pit, which is nearby, among the green fattened flies feasting here, all that was no longer needed by this bright sunny world was sadly buried. That’s all. Everything ended so sadly for them, without even starting…

***

The boy came out of the gate. When he passed by the neighbor’s house, the Pirate almost jumped out of the skin, barking and growling angrily from behind the fence.

“If only this terrible red dog didn’t break free!” thought the boy, shrinking.

And, somewhere behind, the barking of the angry red-haired Pirate. Petka bravely walked with a puppy in his hands along the street of the “private sector”, behind which the multi-apartment high-rise buildings of a new residential microdistrict rose in mountains.

– Kolka, Marinka! Look! Who do I have here! – he stretched out his hand with the puppy. –

Come here!

The children hugged the boy with curiosity.

– Oh, how small he is!

– Let me touch it!

– Oh, look-and-and! And he already has a tail! Ma-a-scarlet like that.

Such attention made Petka feel like the hero of the day. The authority of his popularity grew literally before our eyes. So, at least, it seemed to him. He was proud. The puppy now bothered him much less than this pleasant feeling of being an “axis”, around which at that moment, it seemed, the whole childish world familiar to him revolved.

– Petya, let me hold it. Can? – the girl stretched out her hands and looked into his eyes earnestly.

– Pa-zha-a-lsta! Petka grinned condescendingly and handed the puppy to Marinka.

– What is his name?

– I don’t know. Nothing else,” the owner of the furry miracle shrugged.

– Oh-oh-oh! He tickles my hands with his mouth. He wants to eat me,” the girl grimaced merrily, pulling her head into her shoulders.

– He is looking for a boob, what the hell does he need you for! Kolka said.

– I found where to look for a boob! Petka chuckled.

Is it a boy or a girl? Marina asked.

Petka, thinking, turned the puppy upside down, and all the friendly brothers began to carefully study the situation under the tail …

– Bitch! – finally, Kolka delivered a verdict.

– You yourself are a bitch! Petka looked disapprovingly at his comrade. – It’s a girl! Dog girl.

“Come on, let’s call her Lizka,” the girl suggested.

– Lizkoy? Why Lizkoy? The boys shrugged.

– Yes, because she licks my palms! Marina laughed. – That’s why she is Lizka!

– Well, I don’t know! Petka thought. – I was thinking of calling Bezhka, for the color…

– Nah, Lizka is better! – Marina folded her lips in a bow. – Sing, and Sing, give me Lizka, stretching out her lower lip, opened her eyes as wide as possible, raised her eyebrows plaintively.

Petka chuckled. I thought, looked slyly at my girlfriend.

– Well? Marina furrowed her eyebrows.

– Yes, please! I give! – generously, as if from a master’s shoulder, the answer sounded. – I still have five of these at home!…

… A few months later

The apartment of one of the many new high-rise buildings, dynamically, to the delight of the townspeople advancing on the urban suburbs with typical bedroom neighborhoods, was filled with morning bustle.

– Yes, it’s a puddle again! – Marinka’s father squeamishly jumped on one leg into the bathroom.

– What do you want? You need to walk on time! Marinka’s mother stated reasonably.

– So Marinka got herself a toy, go for a walk! my father shouted from the bath.

– And I have to go to school by eight! I have no time,” Marinka was indignant, rubbing her sleepy eyes…

As soon as my father came out of the bathroom, holding wet crumpled socks in his hand, his indignant baritone sounded again.

– What is this? Now your Lizka gnawed off my shoes, she didn’t have enough of her mother’s shoes last week! – he again desperately waved his hands, kicked his boots, grabbed his head.

Marinka silently blinked her eyes, like “she has nothing to do with it.”

– And I told you, a dog has no place in an apartment with a person! – for the hundredth or even the thousandth time, Marinka’s mother said. – Yes, you finally take it back to the private sector.

– Do you propose to throw it away? Father took a deep breath of air into his lungs.

She’ll be better off there. She will find a yard for herself there and be happy. I’m telling you exactly!

Marinka was frowningly silent while packing her school backpack…

… How much more – passed then

A young beige bitch ran restlessly along the village street, clutching her favorite ball in her teeth. One. The owners have disappeared. Carried away by the game, she did not notice. After all, the air of freedom around was so intoxicating! So alluring. Lizka rushed after the ball bouncing along the road, and that’s it…

It was getting dark. The sky was filled with a crimson glow, reflected in the windows of the houses, where at times the lights were already beginning to be turned on. And the colorful world began to sink into a two-tone black and white gamut. She was getting scared. She ran past the fence, from where some black dog defiantly barked at her, obviously working out her “dog bread” in front of her master.

“Bug, shut up,” the owner barked at her in annoyance.

Lizka stopped. Like a light warm wave, vague memories licked her nose with familiar smells. She, sniffing, jerkily pumped air with a wet black patch of her nose, trying to catch those fleeting familiar waves that instantly dissolve in the turbulent streams of other, completely alien smells. Again there was a bark of the Beetle and the gnashing of a chain dragged along the ground.

A red-haired vicious dog began to echo her from a neighboring house.

– Damn it! Who are they barking at?

– Yes, there is some kind of stray dog ​​running behind the fence.

“Petka, scare her, otherwise ours will go completely to shit,” the man turned to his dog. – Bug, fu-u, I told you! And the Pirate is already raging at any rustle. Yes, what a disgrace! The neighbor has not been seen for a week. He himself moved, and threw the dog. And the dog is not fed. Son, you throw him something to eat after, maybe.

– Dad, maybe it’s better to let him out, let him find food for himself, otherwise he will die on a chain. He won’t take food from us anyway. Everything, as his master taught!

– How do you let someone like that out, he won’t let you in, he’s a terribly evil creature! Yes, and it’s scary to let someone off the chain!

– It means he will die!

The kid beckoned and went behind the gate, went out into the street, stamped his foot on the ground in front of the frightened Lizka.

– Jump, come on, run there!

Lizka’s heart sank in fear. She jumped aside and, looking around from time to time, ran towards the high-rise buildings she knew, in the glimmering hope of still finding her lost house.

Thoroughbreds or mutts – who is better?

Who is better – a purebred dog or a mongrel? This question is often asked by novice dog breeders who are choosing a friend after their own hearts for the first time.

Both purebred and outbred representatives of the dog tribe have enough admirers and opponents . And the differences between them have long been overgrown with so many gossip and legends that they are more like fairy tales that have no resemblance to genetics or biology.

Let’s see what is the difference between a titled dog with a pedigree and his mongrel brother from unknown ancestors.

First statement. The mongrel gets free of charge and is cheaper to maintain than a thoroughbred dog.

Actually: One cannot disagree with the first part of the statement. Indeed, unlike dogs with a pedigree, the cost of which is quite high, the mongrel, most likely, will cost you nothing. Well, except for a handful of copper coins, which, according to tradition, must be given in payment for the animal so that the dog takes root in the house.

But the second point is very controversial. If a thoroughbred dog does not take part in exhibitions, which take a lot of money from the owner, its cost from is the same as the content of any domestic mongrel.

Well, judge for yourself – wouldn’t you feed your pet some leftovers, lead it on a rope and treat it with the cheapest vodka with garlic just because its ancestors are unknown to you? A house pooch eats the same quality food, wears nice clothes, and is seen by a qualified veterinarian like any purebred dog.

Therefore, those who take a non-pedigreed friend, hoping to save on his maintenance, can only be advised to get a plush dog – it is really inexpensive.

Second statement.

Mutts are distinguished by good health and long life expectancy.

Actually: This question is difficult to answer unambiguously. On the one hand, outbred pets, unlike purebred animals, are deprived of most genetic and hereditary diseases , which are the result of inbreeding or active human intervention in the selection process.

However, this does not mean that all mutts are a priori healthy. The beginning of the life of most outbred dogs can hardly be called cloudless. Poor nutrition and a large number of internal and external parasites in the mother, lack of normal conditions in the first days of life, constant malnutrition – all this affects the animal’s immunity.

And even if you take a puppy from the street at the age of a month or two, his health can already be thoroughly undermined by all these unfavorable factors. Yes, and adult mutts living on the street, just like their thoroughbred counterparts, get sick and even die – it’s just that no one monitors the number of one or another flock, where a new one immediately comes to the place of the dead dog.

Third statement. Genetically, mongrels are much cleaner and stronger, because their crossing occurs in a natural, natural way.

Actually: Unlike the traditional wolf pack, where only the alpha male, the fastest, strongest and most agile wolf in the group, has the right to leave offspring, stray dogs, even living together, do not build such a clear and correct hierarchy.

And that’s why anyone can become a father here – the owner’s thoroughbred male with poor genetics, released for free-range, or a rickety, sick mongrel, who happened to be closest to a bitch in heat.

Dogs with a pedigree are paired according to a completely different principle. More and more breeders are paying great attention not only to the breed compatibility of animals, but also to good health, both of the male and his immediate family. Therefore, there is a chance that the genes of both parents will fall correctly, more still in pets with documents.

Fourth statement.

Mutts are extraordinarily smart.

In fact: the dog’s intelligence and ingenuity are the result of a random combination, not due to any particular breed or its absence.

Perhaps, mutts can be called a more versatile dog, able, if necessary, to guard the house, perform in the circus or herd sheep. But any purebred dog, whose ancestors have been engaged in one particular business for more than one generation, will easily give odds to most of the outbred brothers.

That’s why, if you want your pet to do some work well and efficiently, it is better to give preference to a representative of a breed bred specifically for this.

Fifth statement. Mutts are surprisingly beautiful and unusual, in contrast to the traditional appearance of dogs of a certain breed.

Actually: What could be more boring than a sheepdog? Distinctive muzzle, erect ears, log-hanging tail and a couple of colors approved by the standard. Whether business mongrel. That wonderful fluffy puppy with white golfs on its paws will certainly grow into a wonderful tiny Himalayan bear, shaggy and funny.

However, after a few months, it turns out that the Himalayan bear turned out to be a hefty, thick male with a short, inexpressive mouse-colored coat, more like a humpless dromedary, and not like a cute bun. The appearance of yard pets, unlike thoroughbreds, can never be predicted. Because while the mother of most puppies can still be identified, the father cannot be identified.

Yes, even more distant ancestors are such a mixture of sizes, colors and external data that it is simply impossible to guess which of the relatives the charming baby will succeed in. This does not mean that dogs without a breed are ugly. Just choosing a street friend, you need to be prepared for various surprises.

Sixth statement. The mongrels are more devoted and, protecting the owner, are ready, without hesitation, to give their lives.

Actually: Animals living on the street for more than one generation have developed a specific, characteristic of most wild animals, passive-defensive reaction. Most mutts, seeing danger, will simply run away from it.

And not at all because they are bad or ungrateful. The instinct of self-preservation requires, first of all, to save one’s own skin, and the mongrel, like numerous generations of her ancestors, unconditionally obeys her inner voice.

The ancestors of purebred dogs, especially working and watchdogs, were carefully culled mentally, and although today more attention is paid to the conformation, working breeds of dogs have most of the qualities inherent in their ancestors.

However, the adherence to instincts, which mutts suffer from, has another, positive side. Lack of the ability to make decisions creates greater resistance to stress in outbred dogs. This means that such pets endure separation from their beloved owner, and all kinds of life cataclysms much easier.

All the misconceptions listed here do not at all mean that dogs without eminent ancestors are bad. I just wanted every person, taking a small puppy into the house, to be aware that the mongrel does not have any magical properties. This is an ordinary dog ​​that needs love, care, human warmth, and also requires education and normal conditions of detention.

And only if all these requirements are fulfilled, a faithful and devoted dog, sleek and beautiful, will grow out of a nondescript puppy. And then, one day, leading him on a leash, in response to surprised questions about the breed, you can proudly answer – a mongrel. And you will see how the owners of purebred titled dogs see you off with admiring and envious glances.

Natasha Sherwood

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What can you get from dogs?

More than 60% of Russians keep a pet. Most often, people get a cat or a dog. Dogs have been kept as pets for over 14 centuries. Many studies have confirmed the positive impact of pets on humans. On the one hand, dogs have a positive impact on the socialization and mental health of their owners, but on the other hand, dogs play an important role in the transmission of viral, bacterial, and parasitic infections to humans. Infectious diseases can be transmitted to humans through contaminated saliva, infected urine or feces, and direct contact with a dog. Children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals are particularly at increased risk of infection.

Infections most commonly transmitted to humans from dogs.

Campillobacteriosis

This bacterium is the most common cause of gastroenteritis in humans. The infection occurs more often in a mild form and the prognosis of the disease is favorable, but among children under one year old, as well as in weakened individuals, severe complications are possible, leading to a chronic process or death. Campillobacteriosis is dangerous for pregnant women: transplacental infection of the fetus leads to spontaneous abortion or intrauterine infection of the embryo.

Leptospirosis

Dogs excrete the pathogen in the urine. Leptospira penetrate the human body through the skin (often damaged) integuments, mucous membranes. Then, with the blood stream, they are carried throughout the body and enter various organs. In terms of the frequency of deaths, the multiplicity of clinical symptoms, this disease occupies one of the first places among infectious diseases transmitted to humans from animals

Listeriosis

Occurs most often in the elderly, newborns, in persons with immunodeficiencies. In recent years, the risk category has been supplemented by a large group of people dependent on intravenous drugs. In them, listeriosis is often fatal. Infected animals release bacteria into the external environment with saliva, feces, urine. The disease is dangerous for pregnant women.

Pasteurellosis

Acute infectious disease characterized by fever, general intoxication, inflammation of the skin, subcutaneous tissue, arthritis, osteomyelitis. The disease is dangerous by the development of a septic form, which is most severe with a high probability of secondary foci in various organs (endocarditis, brain abscesses, purulent meningitis, purulent arthritis, etc.). Infectious-toxic shock may develop.

Infections caused by capnocytophages

The causative agent lives in the oral cavity of dogs. Human infection occurs through bites, scratches and saliva. Risk factors for the disease are asplenia (congenital or acquired pathology characterized by the absence of the spleen), long-term use of glucocorticoids, and alcohol abuse. Against the background of these conditions, the course of infection acquires a lightning-fast character. Capnocytophaga canimorsus causes sepsis, meningitis, infective endocarditis, cellulitis, suppurative arthritis, and other life-threatening complications.

Rabies

The disease always ends in death. Infection occurs through bites, scratching, salivation by sick animals, upon contact with objects contaminated with infected saliva.

Tick-borne borreliosis

Vectors – ixodid ticks that become infected by sucking the blood of infected animals. A disease with an acute or chronic course, in which damage to the skin, nervous, cardiovascular systems, liver and musculoskeletal system is possible.

Norovirus infection

Scientists know that there is a possibility of transmission of norovirus infection from dogs to humans.

Ringworm

Alopecia areata on the scalp or pink round spots on the rest of the body. From an animal, a person becomes infected when stroking the wool. Children get ringworm from puppies picked up while playing. Direct contact is not necessary – ringworm fungus can persist on objects for a long period of time (from several months).

Toxocariasis

9000 Infection occurs through direct contact with an infested animal whose coat is contaminated with Toxocara eggs, as well as when the earth containing Toxocara eggs enters the mouth.
From the eggs that have entered the mouth, larvae emerge into the stomach and small intestine, migrating through the bloodstream to the liver. There, some of the larvae settle and an inflammatory membrane forms around them. The rest of the larvae migrate to the heart and lungs. Toxocara larvae can be localized in various organs and tissues – kidneys, muscles, thyroid gland, brain, etc. In tissues, the larvae remain viable for many years and periodically, migrate and provoke relapses of the disease.
Transmission of the pathogen occurs when a dog licks a person, in contact with animal hair.
Excretions of an infected dog fall on grass, berries.
Once in the human body, the egg containing the young larva migrates.
Larvae form round or oval fluid-filled cysts ranging in size from 1-5 to 40 cm and even larger. Most of the larvae linger in the liver, some enter the lungs, and some enter the kidneys, bones and brain. The larva can get into any organ, and the cyst can burst and release dozens more larvae. Growing up, the echinococcal cyst pushes back and squeezes the host tissues, which subsequently atrophy and die.
Complications of the disease: suppuration of the cyst, pleurisy, peritonitis, obstructive jaundice, cirrhosis, pulmonary hemorrhage, cardiovascular insufficiency. The most formidable complication is rupture of the cyst, which is accompanied by severe pain and an allergic reaction (anaphylactic shock).

Dog tapeworm (cucumber) An adult worm parasitizes in the body of a dog Infection of a person occurs when an infected flea is accidentally swallowed, or through the saliva of animals. Small children who come into contact with pets are at risk.