12 Reasons Why You Should Adopt a Mixed-Breed Dog

There's no better reason why you should adopt a mixed-breed dog than to help save a life.

I mean how cool and heroic would it be to help just at least 1 of the 3.1 million dogs that are approximately entering U.S. animal shelters yearly?

And on top of that, did you know that out of those 3.1 million dogs, an approximate 390,000 are being euthanized every year according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals?

Although there really is no saying how many of those are mixed-breed dogs, it's safe to assume that it's a lot because, in 2017, an estimated 53% of the canine population in the country are already mixed-breeds.

Are those not enough reasons to adopt and don't shop? No? Well…

If you need more convincing on why you should adopt a mixed-breed dog, read on!

Why You Should Adopt a Mixed-Breed Dog

As you may know, it's pretty easy to guess a dog's temperament if it's purebred. There are thousands of manuals and textbooks dedicated to them, after all!

But if you are currently torn between wanting to get a dog with the affectionate and playful personality of a Labrador but in a Chihuahua's body…

Or perhaps a hunting dog like a Terrier that can cuddle like a Pug, getting a mixed breed is your best bet.

You'll have the best of both worlds, trust me!

Plus, many mixed-breed owners (including myself!) can testify just how easy to maintain and love them.

What are Mixed-Breed Dogs?

Mixed-breed dogs are simply the offspring of two dogs from different breeds.

They are usually interchangeable with the term crossbreed, although purists would say crossbreeds are from two purebreds, while mixed-breeds are from two dog parents whose breed or lineage is unclear or unknown.

Crossbreed puppies are also often called designer breeds because they are the product of a deliberate breeding practice to produce a unique-looking dog.

On the other hand, mixed breeds are sometimes called mutts. While some are okay with these terms, others dislike this because of their implied meaning as “inferior mixed breed.”

If you're asking me, it doesn't really matter what they're called because I know better as a fur parent of 2 mixed breeds.

12 Reasons for Adopting a Mixed-Breed Dog

With that, here are 12 reasons why you should consider adopting a mixed-breed dog.

1. Mixed-Breed Dogs Tend to Live Longer than Purebreds

Much has been said about mixed-breed dogs living longer than purebreds, and that may be true!

This is actually one purpose of crossbreeding—they aim to solve the health problems inherent to each specific breed.

And many studies have proven just how successful it has been for mixed breeds. They have fewer genetic problems which makes their life expectancy a bit longer than purebreds.

If you're wondering, that's an average of 14 years for mixed breeds and an average of 10 years for purebreds.

But of course, it all depends on how you treat them and care for them. The healthier and happier your pup is, regardless if it's a crossbreed or purebred, the longer it'll surely live!

2. They Tend to be More Mild-Mannered

Mixed breeds not only get improved health, but they also have improved temperaments and personalities.

Whatever extreme behavior their purebred parents have, rest assured that they got it toned down a notch.

For example, we know how aggressive Chihuahuas can get.

But combine it with a Pomeranian, you won't only get a cute and adorable lap dog, but you'll also get an affectionate, intelligent, and energetic watchdog.

3. Mixed-Breeds are Easier to Train

Although this is yet to be backed by science, some experts and dog owners say mixed breeds are actually easier to train than purebreds.

This may also have something to do with their more laid-back temperament and less-demanding attitude.

While purebreds are usually hardwired for specific tasks like herding or hunting, mixed breeds are more flexible and can adapt better to their new owner's lifestyle.

4. Wider Selection to Choose From

Your options are endless when it comes to choosing a mixed breed. I mean, how many kinds of breeds are out there?

360, according to the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (International Canine Federation,) the largest international federation of national kennel clubs in the whole world!

Just imagine how many mixed breeds can come out of that number. I'm no expert in math but I know that's a lot!

So depending on your preferred looks, size, personality, and purpose, you definitely have a smorgasbord of options to choose from in adopting a crossbreed puppy.

5. Mixed-Breeds are Unique to Look at

That brings us to the 4th reason why you should adopt a mixed-breed dog. They're just really unique and one of a kind!

Walking in a dog park, you'll surely get a lot of stares and questions about what your dog's breed is.

Plus, you already know it's your dog yapping and being naughty even from a far distance!

6. You Save not just One, but Two Lives

I've said this once and I'll say it again. You will save a life by adopting a mixed breed.

And come to think of it, not only one life but two lives!

You don't only give chance for a new beginning to the one you're adopting, but you're also freeing up space and resources in the shelter for another dog to be saved.

If that won't make you feel good, well, I don't know what else will.

7. Learn their History from Shelter Volunteers and Staff

Walking in a pet store or a puppy mill, you've probably heard different sales pitch on why you should buy a pet. Of course, they need the sales!

But visiting shelters, you'll be able to talk–encouraged, in fact, to the volunteers and staff.

Through this, you'll learn the true background of the dog you are eyeing getting. You'll also get to know and observe more about their individual personalities while in the shelter.

Hopefully, this will help you convince that you're not only getting yourself a companion, but you're also helping something that deserves a second chance in life.

8. Adopting Mixed-Breeds Can Cost You Less

There's no doubt that buying pets is expensive. And purebreds can actually cost more than mixed-breeds.

But why shell out a lot of bucks when you can spend less just by adopting?

Depending on the shelter itself and the location where you live, it can cost you $50 to $350 to adopt a dog, while buying one can set you back $400 to $2,000. Think about that.

9. Discourage Purebred Puppy Mills

You may think just because you adopt instead of buy doesn't mean puppy mills will run out of business. Well, maybe not.

But what if there are thousands like you who think the same way?

Those are thousands of people who can just choose to adopt, thousands of dogs being given a second chance in life, and a thousand potential businesses that puppy mills won't get.

As cliche as it may sound, one person can really make a difference you know.

10. Raise Awareness for Shelter Dogs

The 9th reason why you should adopt a mixed-breed dog goes beyond you or the dog you adopted.

You can actually raise awareness for more support for all shelter dogs in the country.

If you're into social media, why not post about the experience? Let your online friends know about your dog's adoption story.

Or if you're a bit more of a private person, just tell the story to your closest friends during Taco Tuesdays. Or to the strangers in the dog park when they ask what breed your dog is.

Trust me, it'll really feel all warm and fuzzy inside to be part of something bigger than yourself.

11. You'll Gain the Most Loyal Friend

Whether you adopt a crossbreed puppy or an adult mixed breed, they can sure be the most loyal companion you can ever get.

Those with a history of a previous family know what loss feels like.

They'd be the ones most grateful for having been given a new chance at life.

They'd be the ones most loyal to you once you get to win their trust.

12. Live a Happier and More Fulfilled Life 

There's no doubt that pets make our lives better.

Doesn't matter if you're single, with family and kids, or an elder person, mixed-breed dogs can also improve your physical, emotional, and mental wellbeing.

Science has proven time and time again that there are many benefits to being a dog owner, and I'm sure you'll experience them all when you adopted your own mixed breed.

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Adopt a Mixed-Breed Dog

I hope by now you are decided to finally adopt a mixed-breed dog. If so, pat yourself on the back!

You're doing something good for you, the canine population, and society in general.

Let me give you a general picture of how the dog adoption process goes about. Bear in mind though that it still depends on the shelter or rescue center; asking around won't hurt!

Step #1: Visit the animal shelter/foster homes

It's pretty obvious I know. By visiting the shelter or foster homes, you'll get to see your options.

Talking to the volunteers and staff will also help you decide which one best suits your lifestyle. Bring a checklist with you: do you want a hunting companion or a couch potato?

Just make sure not to rush this process. If you have family, discuss with them what kind of dog you'd want to be part of your family.

Remember that adopting a dog is a commitment, one that should be taken seriously and wholeheartedly.

Step #2: Fill out the application form

Once you have decided, fill out the application form. After doing so, the staff may invite you to sit down and answer a couple of questions from them.

Some of the possible questions are:

• How active are you?
• What expectations do you have in owning a dog?
• Are you a homeowner or do you rent?
• Do you have access to any green spaces: a fenced yard or a nearby park, perhaps?
• What does your family look like? Do you have kids? Living with a partner? A roommate?
• Any personal references you can provide?

This will help them assess whether you are truly committed to caring for the dog and if you actually have the resources to provide them with what they need.

Step #3: Wait for the house inspection

It'll probably take a few days for the shelter staff to visit your house. They may request for all family members (and all other existing pets) to be present to meet them.

They do this to make sure there really is a safe and comfortable space for the dog to live in.

Before this, it's also possible that they've contacted the people you named as your personal references.

They're expected to vouch that what you said in the interview is truthful and that you can actually care for the dog you're planning to adopt.

Step #4: Pay the adoption fee

After the house inspection, the shelter staff then decides if you and the dog are indeed a perfect match.

Once your application is successful, all there's left to do is to pay the adoption fees!

As mentioned, different shelters have different rates. Plus, they may also take into account the prior medications or vaccines the dog had while in the shelter.

Don't worry! This is still more affordable compared to the cost of buying a puppy and then getting through all those rounds of vaccinations.

Step #5: Bring your new buddy home

Once all is done, the last thing you need to do is bring your new buddy home!

Make sure that before doing this, though, you already have all the necessities ready (bed/crate, toys, water and food bowl, etc.) to make their first day easy and comfortable.

Why You Should Adopt a Mixed-Breed Dog— Summary

I hope the 12 reasons we listed above helped you answer the question of why you should adopt a mixed-breed dog.

It may be daunting at first especially if you haven't encountered crossbreed puppies, let alone adopting one, but trust me and all the other mixed breed dog owners when we say it will be one of the most fulfilling and best decisions you'll make in your life.

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