Mixed breed dogs aren't necessarily better. What they usually are is less expensive, and usually come without breed specific traits...or a combination of traits that aren't as annoying or as costly.For example, purebred boxers have a trait where they develop spinal cancer before age 4. Not all of them get the cancer, but it's a trait that's seen in them more than other breeds. A boxer mix, because of the other genes in his mix, is less likely to develop spinal cancer. He MAY, but it isn't going to happen as often as it does in purebreeds.Now, I have 2 mixed breeds and an AKC Golden Retriever. One of the mixes is part poodle, and has several of the issues that come with poodles..skin allergies, reverse sneezing, the tendency to HAVE to lick people. The Golden has none of the issues Goldens can get. So, it's a crap shoot. However, this is the first mix breed I've ever had to present breed related issues. (*shrug*) He's just a pest and I love him. I know he does it to annoy me. (*smile*)If you aren't breeding and aren't showing, then there's no reason to spend a wad of money on a pure breed dog. In the long run, it'll probably save you money to go with a mix, and there are usually hundreds of them in shelters looking for a good home, and some love.
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