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One of the joys (and challenges) of a Mixed Breed is their personality. With a genetic cocktail of traits, it’s hard to predict whether they’ll be laid-back, lively, or somewhere in between.
Mixed Breeds tend to have ‘middle of the road’ temperaments, since extreme instincts or behaviours seen in purebreds are often diluted. However, a lucky roll of the genetic dice can bring out specific traits, such as a herding instinct from one ancestor and a stubborn streak from another.
For example, a Mixed Breed with Golden Retriever, Doberman, Bichon Frise, and Greyhound in the mix might be a bit of a paradox! They could have the Golden Retriever’s friendliness and eagerness to please, the Doberman’s alertness and protective instincts, the Bichon Frise’s playful and cuddly nature, and the Greyhound’s calm demeanor mixed with sudden bursts of energy. This could result in a dog that’s sociable one moment but aloof the next, or content to lounge around all day only to surprise you with a lightning-fast sprint around the yard.
Their personality might feel like a jumble of traits, keeping you on your toes as you work out their personality. This genetic variety of a Mixed Breed can make for a quirky, endearing, but sometimes confusing companion!
Mixed Breed dogs are often seen as healthier than their purebred counterparts, thanks to their genetic diversity. This concept, known as hybrid vigour, means that the wider gene pool reduces the likelihood of certain inherited conditions. For example, a Mixed Breed dog may avoid some of the common issues seen in purebreds, like hip dysplasia in large breeds or breathing problems in brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds like the French Bulldog.
However, Mixed Breeds aren’t immune to health problems. If both parents carry recessive genes for a specific condition, the mixed puppy can still inherit it. Without a detailed history of their lineage, predicting potential health risks becomes more challenging. Regular vet check-ups, a balanced diet, and proper exercise are essential to maintaining their health.
Plus, some Mixed Breeds may inherit specific features or tendencies that complicate their care. For example, a Mixed Breed with some Whippet lineage might need extra attention to its delicate skin or unique metabolism, while a dog with Labrador genes could have a higher risk of obesity if overfed.
Ultimately, the health of a Mixed Breed dog comes down to proper care, early intervention for any issues, and a commitment to their wellbeing. While they may have fewer predisposed risks, their overall health still relies on a loving, attentive owner.
Hybrid vigour, or heterosis, is what happens when dogs with different genetic backgrounds come together to create pups that have a bit of an advantage. By mixing genes from different breeds, you lower the chances of inherited health issues that can crop up in purebreds, where limited gene pools make certain problems, like hip dysplasia or heart disease, more common. It’s like shaking up the gene pool to keep things fresh and healthy.
Imagine a Pug, which is prone to breathing issues, a Boxer, which can have a risk of heart problems, and a Dachshund, known for back issues due to their long spine. If these three are part of the genetic mix, the Mixed Breed pup might have a more balanced body structure and healthier heart, while avoiding the extreme flat-faced breathing challenges of the Pug.
It’s not a health guarantee (nature can still throw curveballs), but hybrid vigour helps smooth out some of the genetic rough spots that come with inbreeding.
All dogs need regular exercise to stay healthy and happy, and Mixed Breeds are no exception. Their needs will depend on their size, age, and energy levels. Some might be content with a brisk walk, while others will need more intense activities like running or agility training. Mental stimulation is important for all pooches too, so puzzle toys, playing hide-and-seek with treats, or games of tug-of-war are all good ways to give their brains a good workout too. Tune into your dog’s energy and tailor their routine accordingly.
Training is an essential part of being a responsible dog owner. Dogs need to be taught manners from an early age so they grow into well-balanced pooches. Some breeds excel at learning tricks, like the Toy Poodle, while others thrive on hard work like the Siberian Husky. Some take to training like a dog to a bone, such as the Border Collie, while others are independent and strong-willed – Beagles, we’re looking at you!
Whether they’re eager-to-please or notoriously stubborn, training helps every dog reach their full potential. It’s not just about teaching them to sit or stay; training builds trust, strengthens the bond between you and your dog, and helps them navigate the human world with confidence.
For Mixed Breeds, whose temperament and instincts will be a blend of several breeds, training is especially important to bring out their best qualities and iron out any kinks they might have. A well-trained dog is not only a joy to live with but also safer and happier, as they learn how to behave in various situations, from meeting new people, walking on a lead, or responding to commands. Ultimately, training is a lifelong investment in your dog’s wellbeing and your relationship with them.
Be positive. Always use positive reinforcement by rewarding good behaviour with lots of praise and tasty treats, such as these Duck & Rosemary Meaty Treats. Just be mindful of how many treats you dispense during training.
Avoid harsh corrections. Harsh tones and corrections can dampen a dog’s spirit or cause anxiety. A firm but gentle approach is the best way to motivate your pooch.
Socialise from the start. Socialisation is crucial and needs to start as early as possible in a dog’s life. Expose them to new people, children, dogs, animals, smells, and situations from an early age to help them become calm and confident canines.
Be consistent. Ensure to set clear rules and consistently enforce them. This will help your dog understand what's expected of them and reduce any unwanted behaviour.
Get them used to grooming. Frequently touch them around the ears, legs, undercarriage, mouth, and feet to help them become comfortable with being groomed and handled.
Good nutrition is key for all dogs, regardless of what breed they are. Choose a high-quality, vet recommended dog food that meets their nutritional needs and is suitable for their size and age. You should also consider adding natural supplements to their diet, such as Salmon Oil, to boost their physical and mental health.
The amount you feed a Mixed Breed will depend on a number of factors, such as whether they’re a puppy or an adult, if you’re using dry food, wet food or a mix, their energy levels, and whether they’ve been neutered or spayed. Since Mixed Breeds can have varying metabolisms and dietary needs, consult your vet to ensure your dog is getting delicious dinners with the right balance of nutrients.
You'll find a handy feeding calculator at the bottom of every product page here at Pooch & Mutt, helping you identify how much of our health-led recipes are right for the age, size and weight of your dog. Take our quick quiz to find your pooch’s perfect food!
Yes, Mixed Breeds can make fantastic family pets given the right socialisation, training, and care. If you’re rescuing a Mixed Breed from a dog shelter, speak to the team about your living environment and family dynamics so they can match you with the paw-fect pet. While it’s impossible to predict their exact personality, many mixed breeds are loyal, loving, and adaptable.
When it comes to children, many dogs are gentle and tolerant, but there are some breeds that don’t enjoy roughhousing or being treated like a toy by toddlers. You should always teach children how to properly interact with dogs, regardless of breed, such as no pulling, smacking or poking. Great care should also be taken when introducing dogs and children, making sure to never leave little ones unsupervised no matter how well trained your pooch is.
The ideal owner for a Mixed Breed dog is flexible, patient, and ready for surprises. They should embrace the unpredictable nature of their furry friend and be committed to meeting their individual needs, whether that’s extra training, lots of playtime, or snuggles on the couch. A Mixed Breed dog owner should be open to a one-of-a-kind experience – and they’ll be rewarded with a uniquely wonderful companion in return.
Mixed Breed dogs come with their own unique set of advantages and challenges, making them a fascinating choice for many dog lovers. Their unpredictable nature is part of their charm, but it also requires a bit of flexibility and an open mind. Here's a deeper look at the pros and cons of owning a Mixed Breed dog:
Pros
Unique appearance. Mixed Breeds are often one-of-a-kind. Their diverse ancestry creates distinct coat patterns, sizes, and features, making your dog truly unique.
Lower risk of inherited health issues. Thanks to their mixed genetics, they’re less likely to inherit breed-specific health problems that plague purebreds, such as hip dysplasia in German Shepherds or heart disease in Cavaliers.
Affordable. Compared to pedigree and designer breeds, Mixed Breeds are usually easier on the purse strings. Dog homes often have affordable adoption fees, and many mixed breeds are available for free from families with surprise litters.
There’s plenty of them. Mixed Breeds make up the majority of dogs in shelters, so adopting one means giving a home to a dog in need while potentially saving on the cost of buying an expensive pup from a breeder.
Adaptability. Mixed Breeds may have balanced temperaments, making them more adaptable to different lifestyles, whether that’s city living or out in the sticks.
Less intense behaviours. Traits like herding instincts or guarding tendencies may be diluted, making Mixed Breeds easier for first-time owners or families.
Surprise skill sets. Their varied genetics can lead to unique talents – they might surprise you by excelling at agility, obedience, or even being an excellent couch buddy.
Cons:
Unpredictable size and appearance. Without knowing the breeds in their lineage, it’s hard to know how big they’ll get or how they’ll look as adults. A small puppy might grow into a 30 kg adult!
Temperament surprise. Mixed Breeds can inherit conflicting traits, such as friendliness, protection, boldness, and shyness. This unpredictability can make it more challenging to understand and manage their personality.
Unknown health risks. While Mixed Breeds often have fewer hereditary health problems, not knowing their lineage can make it harder to anticipate and care for specific health needs.
Training challenges. If a Mixed Breed inherits a stubborn streak or strong prey drive, training might take extra patience and consistency.
Varied activity levels. Some Mixed Breeds might have the boundless energy of a Border Collie combined with the laid-back nature of a British Bulldog, making it tricky to predict their exercise needs.
Not bred for a purpose. If you need a dog for a specific purpose, like herding, hunting, or service work, a Mixed Breed might not be a guaranteed fit compared to a purebred with known instincts.
The unconditional love of a Mixed Breed is priceless, but there are costs to consider if you plan to own one.
Mixed Breed dogs are usually cheaper than purebreds, but some breeders still might charge up to £600 for a mixed pup. The price you pay will depend on who you buy it from, your location, and the dog’s age and size.
Set up costs
Primary vaccines in the UK cost between £40-£70 on average, but this depends where you live and the vets you choose. You’ll also need equipment such as a lead, collar, harness, dog tag (this is a legal requirement), bedding, food bowls, toys, and a crate if you’re crate training. If you decide to neuter your pup, the cost of the operation ranges from £110 to £300, and is usually done between six and 12 months old. Spaying costs can be higher and you should always talk to your vet about the best time to have this procedure done.
Ongoing costs
When it comes to food, these pooches need a high quality dog food packed with vitamins and natural ingredients. This can cost anywhere between £10 and £40 per month. On top of this, you’ll also have booster vaccinations, flea and worm treatments and regular accessories like poop bags to buy.
Insurance costs
Mixed Breeds are cheaper to insure than purebreds and crossbreeds, so it's highly recommended to purchase pet insurance should anything happen. The exact cost of insurance is based on your location, your dog’s age, size, medical history and the type of cover you choose. Pet insurance prices vary wildly so always compare to get the right protection. The average annual cost to insure a Mixed Breed without any pre-existing conditions is around £283. This might sound a lot but you can’t put a price on peace of mind.
Before you bring a new furry friend into your life, you need to know you’re getting it from a reputable source. To help you navigate this decision, here are some essential tips for buying or adopting a Mixed Breed.
1. Research Mixed Breeds. These dogs are largely unpredictable in many ways, from appearance to temperament, and they might not come with any paperwork or health checks. You need to be prepared for any unexpected surprises while still giving them the love they deserve.
2. Ask potential breeders for references from previous customers, veterinarians, or other breeders. This will help you get an idea of their reputation and the health of their dogs.
3. Beware of scammers. A genuine seller will never ask for money upfront before seeing the dogs, and will always offer for you to see them in person before making a commitment. Also be wary if the price is significantly cheaper than other listings.
4. Always visit them in person to see the mother with her puppies and to check the environment. A responsible seller will never release the pups before they’re eight weeks’ old.
5. Watch out for people who breed multiple dogs at once. This is a sign they might not have the right expertise and don’t prioritise their dogs’ health.
6. A reputable breeder will provide a health guarantee for your puppy, including paperwork about their lineage, vaccinations and microchipping. However, this isn’t always possible with Mixed Breeds, so it's important to rely on other measures to ensure your dog is healthy. This might include scheduling a vet check-up as soon as you bring them home, asking about any known health history if available, and being prepared for a bit of mystery regarding their genetic background. While you may not have the same detailed paperwork as with purebreds, proper care and regular health monitoring can set your Mixed Breed on the path to a happy, healthy life.
When adopting a Mixed Breed, research the shelter to ensure they’re a reputable rescue organisation, and meet with their adoption specialist to discuss your lifestyle, needs and dog ownership experience. Mixed Breeds in shelters may have complex medical conditions or be quite senior, so you’ll need to ensure you have the time, love and dedication to give them a happy fur-ever home.
There’s a whole world of dogs out there to explore! Take our quiz to see if you’re better suited to a different pooch.
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