One of the nation’s most famous movie dogs is Benji, a mixed breed Terrier. Benji is from the 1974 movie titled “Benji”. For the love of mutt dogs and in commemoration of National Mutt Day coming up on December 2, 2016, this blog post will be shining the spotlight on mixed breed dogs – and why mutts are awesome!
National Mutt Day was intended to create awareness and recognition on the plight of mutts (also known as mixed dog breeds) in shelters all across the nation and to enlighten the public about the many mixed breed dogs that frantically await new homes. The focus of National Mutt Day celebrated on December 2nd every year is on mixed-breed dogs that end up in animal shelters. This is because the largest percentage of dogs euthanized in shelters are largely medium to large mutt dogs. We think this is a ridiculous figure since we all know that mutts are awesome!
Below are our top reasons why mixed breed dogs are awesome and should be celebrated on National Mutt Day
- Mutts Are Unique
The number one question people ask parents of mixed-breed dogs is “what kind of a dog is that?” This is usually followed by lots of conjectures, admiration, and cuddling. And even though the question may go unanswered, unique mixed breed dogs get a lot of attention, and they do love the attention. This is because the standard for breeding mutts does not require breeding puppies whose appearance or temperaments are similar. They are a blend of appearance, a blend of temperament and a blend of awesomeness! Therefore, when visiting a shelter to adopt a mutt, you have a wide selection to choose from. Your choices are more unique and varied than you would ordinarily find at a breeder.
- Mutts Have Fewer Health Issues
Mixed breed dogs are often healthier, may be better behaved, and may live longer than purebreds. It is known that some purebreds are more prone to certain illnesses while mixed breed dogs are less likely to develop hereditary diseases due to their gene variation.
- Mutts Are Flexible
Because mutts are not bred with a specific skill set in mind, such as hunting or herding, they are flexible and adjust easily to different living conditions. In a nutshell, they are the jacks of all trades!
- Mutts Can Also Compete
Think you need a purebred to enter dog competitions? Not necessarily! Mutts can also compete in agility contests through groups like the NADAC, amongst several others. Their unique temperaments and sizes might give them an edge, too. A top dog, named Tucker, is a Boston Terrier/Rat Terrier mix which makes him an excellent agility dog.
- Mutts Make Great Service Dogs
Service dog roles are no longer limited to only purebreds because mixed breeds are equally capable in this regard. Trained mixed breeds make great service dogs or therapy dogs. Mutts are just as able to perform the duties of purebred dogs – such as drug and bomb sniffing, search and rescue, and help in guiding the blind. For example, most dogs with Assistance Dogs International are mixed-breed rescue dogs that have been trained.
- Shelter Mutts Have Cheaper Start-Up Costs
Many shelters require only a $50 to $200 donation for you to adopt a dog. Purebred dogs can cost over $1,000. In addition to that, a mixed breed from the shelter is likely already neutered or spayed, and its vaccinations are up-to-date, which will save you more money.
- Their Awesomeness Is Contagious
A mutt is for the adventurer in all of us! Mutts do not have a particular temperament that has been set through strict breeding practices over time. Therefore, with your mixed breed, especially a puppy, you will enjoy spontaneity and have the chance to grow with your new pet. You will be even more awesome for it! So please visit a shelter and find a new mutt friend today!
If you live in the Los Angeles area and you are looking to adopt, you can check out the dogs available online here for the Los Angeles Animal Services. If you do adopt a dog you may find our articles useful on Five Benefits Of Walking Your Dog Daily and How To Keep Your Dog Excited About His Daily Walk.
Mutts have so much to offer – can you help out by bringing one home today from your local shelter? Or, help by making a donation to your local shelter? Or, even by sharing this post? And, if you already have a mutt at your house, give him/her an extra big hug today in celebration on National Mutt Day on December 2nd.
I couldn’t agree more! All the dogs I had were mutts and they were all pretty awesome 🙂
Mutts are truly special dogs!