When choosing a dog, prospective owners often face the dilemma of whether to adopt a rescue pup or select a breed that fits their family, lifestyle, and even allergy needs. Purebred and designer dogs are known for traits such as intelligence, calmness, and hypoallergenic coats, with designer breeds combining the best qualities of multiple breeds. However, purebreds must be registered with the American Kennel Club (AKC), the official body overseeing breed standards in the U.S., while mixed breeds and designer dogs do not hold AKC recognition.
While shelter dogs come in various shapes and sizes, many share common traits, notably the American Staffordshire Terrier, also known as the pit bull. Debbie Hill, Senior Vice President of Operations at the Humane Society of Missouri, explained that the pit bull’s square face and stocky build are characteristic of bully breeds, which have been historically associated with dogfighting. Despite their reputation, Hill emphasized that with proper training, these dogs can be incredibly loyal and affectionate companions.
Though mixed-breed dogs are more common in shelters, purebreds are also in need of rescue. Breed-specific rescues provide an option for prospective owners looking to adopt a particular breed. Regardless of whether purchasing or adopting, each type of dog comes with its own set of advantages and challenges.
Health is one of the most critical factors to consider when selecting a dog. Purebreds, with their clear lineage and health history, offer predictability in terms of size, coat, temperament, and activity level. According to Brandi Munden, AKC’s Vice President of Public Relations, this predictability helps ensure a good match with a prospective owner’s lifestyle. However, purebreds are often more susceptible to genetic disorders, such as dilated cardiomyopathy, due to a smaller gene pool. On the other hand, mixed-breed dogs, with their larger genetic pool, may be less prone to hereditary health problems but still face potential health issues. Shelters may not always provide detailed health histories for adopted dogs, but they ensure that all adoptable animals are spayed or neutered, microchipped, and vaccinated.
Behavior is another important consideration when choosing a dog. Each dog has a unique personality shaped by breed, upbringing, and past experiences. While mixed-breed dogs often stand out for their individuality, Edy Flake, owner of Show Me Doodles, pointed out that mixing breeds can enhance desirable traits. Breeders like Flake intentionally combine breeds to produce dogs that meet specific needs, such as smaller size or reduced shedding for people with allergies. However, while genetics may influence a dog’s traits, Flake stressed that both “nature and nurture” play crucial roles in behavior development. Puppies require attention, training, and socialization to develop good behavior.
Shelter dogs also offer the benefit of firsthand interaction. Hill advised that adopting a dog from a shelter allows potential owners to directly observe how the dog behaves and reacts to people. This personal interaction can be a significant advantage over buying a dog online, where behavior remains uncertain.
Katie Harris, CEO of Moxie’s Mission, which provides education and financial assistance for service dogs, highlighted that the specific breed should not always be the determining factor in choosing a dog. “What matters most is finding a dog suited for the task,” she said, pointing out that the needs of a service dog may not align with personal breed preferences.
Cost is often a deciding factor in dog selection. Purchasing a dog from a breeder, whether purebred or designer, is generally more expensive than adopting from a shelter. Designer puppies, for example, can cost upwards of $2,000, while adoption fees range from $190 to $325, depending on factors like the dog’s age and medical needs.
Ultimately, the most important factor in choosing a dog is the bond that forms between the owner and the pet. Hill emphasized that many people find their perfect dog simply by looking into its eyes, realizing it’s the right fit. “What they really wanted was a family member, a friend, a loyal companion,” she said.