Mixed-breed dogs

In our view, the intelligence of purebred dogs is usually considered higher than that of mixed breeds. Indeed, purebreds have a certain advantage in intelligence, but it is not definitive. Many mixed-breed dogs are actually smarter than some purebred varieties. Therefore, we should not rashly judge mixed-breed dogs on their intelligence alone, as there is considerable variability. However, most mixed breeds generally have better physical fitness than purebreds.

Some people think mixed-breed dogs are stupid, while others find them smart. This is because the intelligence of mixed breeds varies individually. But generally, mixed breeds tend to be healthier. Many purebred dogs have certain congenital defects. For example, Dalmatians are prone to congenital deafness, Poodles to epilepsy, Boxers to malignant tumors, and Dobermans to bleeding disorders similar to hemophilia. Vision diseases that plague purebreds like a plague include cataracts, glaucoma, and retinal degeneration that causes blindness. According to a survey conducted by the University of Pennsylvania's veterinary school on thousands of dogs, they found that purebred dogs have three times the likelihood of congenital heart disease compared to mixed-breed dogs.

Mixed-breed dogs have varying levels of intelligence

Mixed-breed dogs tend to have relatively stable emotions, while some purebreds are more prone to emotional instability. Chihuahuas, Yorkshire Terriers, and other toy breeds are often overly nervous, sensitive, and hyperactive. Many Mastiffs, Dobermans, and German Shepherds can be excessively fearful. Some breeds, such as the Rottweiler, Shar Pei, and Chow Chow, often have hereditary aggressive behavior; other breeds, including the American Cocker Spaniel and Golden Retriever, are also beginning to show this problem.

Of course, compared to purebreds, mixed-breed dogs also have some disadvantages because many mixed breeds are bred by humans without selective breeding. To preserve (or exaggerate) a rare trait, breeders need to mate two genetically close dogs. Dr. D.B. Mckeown and his research colleagues at the Ontario Veterinary College stated, "All purebred dogs have undergone inbreeding." Mating two genetically very close dogs greatly increases the chance of expressing harmful recessive genes. No purebred dog breeder can avoid passing on these defects. Many dogs are carriers of recessive diseases and unknowingly pass these genes down.

Besides recessive diseases, selective breeding and inbreeding maintain traits that are harmful to dogs themselves. These so-called "responsible" breeders proudly exhibit their "standard dogs," such as those recognized by the AKC (American Kennel Club). The AKC is the American organization with the highest registration of purebred dogs; they claim the club's standards describe "the ideal traits of each breed." In fact, breed standards deprive dogs of their natural welfare.

Mixed breeds may be more prone to certain genetic diseases

Without human manipulation, today's dogs would resemble Australian dingoes. A canine lineage history expert states that dingoes and other "natural" dogs weigh 35-55 pounds (about the size of a Siberian Husky); have proportionate bodies; long, straight legs; moderately sized snouts; almond-shaped eyes; long tails slightly curved upwards at the tip; erect or semi-erect ears; and short coats. Nature selects these traits because they promote health. In contrast, human-established breed standards directly cause disability.

It can be said that mixed-breed dogs have their own advantages and disadvantages. Although mixed breeds generally have better physical fitness than purebred dogs, they are also more susceptible to some genetic diseases, which is an important consideration. Additionally, mixed breeds' intelligence ranges from high to low, so they cannot be uniformly labeled; an objective approach is necessary.