Mixed Breed Facts

AKA: Mutt, Heinz 57

Size: All sizes

Ease of training:  Varies

Grooming: Varies

Shedding: Varies  

Exercise needed:  Varies

Energy level:  Varies

Protection:  Varies

Temperament

A mixed breed temperament will vary widely.  Some terms used to describe dog temperaments include active, affectionate, fearless, friendly, gentle, good natured, independent, intelligent, loyal, obedient, protective, very friendly. However, as with people, dogs can be quite individual!

One way to determine what a mixed breed’s traits may be like is to look at the parent dogs. When you have a mixed breed you can have a combination of a lot of different traits. There are many different types of dogs, from guard, hunters, herders, sight-hounds, to those bred only to be a companion.

Although it may help in some ways, it is not super important that you know exactly what breeds are in your dog's mix.  What is important is that you understand the dog’s needs.  Dogs are pack animals that thrive on structure and knowing exactly where they fit.  No matter what size or type of dog you own be sure to give your dog plenty of clear rules and leadership, and provide the proper amount and type of exercise.

Appearance

One of a kind! Even if you meet a similar dog, no two are quite the same.

Energy Levels and Exercise

Energy levels will widely vary from dog to dog. One thing that does not vary; however, is that all dogs should be exercised – preferably as a walk.  Most people mistakenly assume that having a large backyard allows for adequate exercise for their dogs. Dogs rarely exercise themselves in a backyard. Mostly, they are sniffing around looking for squirrels, or barking at the stranger who walks by. Dogs are intelligent beings needing physical and mental stimulation. Walking around the yard isn’t very physically or mentally stimulating. The solution is to actually take your dog out for a good walk or a jog. That way your dog can be mentally and physically stimulated by interacting with the outside world.

So how much exercise is adequate? As a general rule of thumb, the larger the breed, or the higher the energy level of the dog, the more exercise it needs. Although smaller breeds will still require exercise outside the house for the same reasons previously mentioned.  Another thing to keep in mind is your dog’s age, weight, and any other special medical conditions.  For instance, you may wish to consult a vet for an exercise regime for puppies, senior dogs, or overweight dogs.

Consider starting with 30 minutes of walking a day and add more exercise time as your dog requires.  After a good bout of exercise your dog should come home and be happy to curl up on the floor and get some rest.

Grooming

Widely varies, although all dogs will benefit from regular brushing.  Most dogs enjoy being brushed, and sessions will strengthen the bond with your dog while maintaining a healthy coat. A dog’s minimum brushing needs depend on hair type.

·         Long-haired dogs usually require daily brushing to prevent matting and tangling of hair.

·         Medium-haired dogs may be prone to matting and tangles and should be brushed at least weekly.

·         Short-haired dogs can typically go up to a month in-between brushing.

Regardless of hair type, you can brush your dog daily - especially if he/she enjoys it.  More frequent brushing during shedding season can help prevent hair build-up and excess shedding.

Nails:  Most dogs need monthly nail trims, but your dog may need more or less depending on the rate of growth. 

Ears:  Your dog’s ears can be a haven for bacteria and yeast if not kept clean.  Check their ears regularly.  Some dogs can go their whole lives without ear problems, and the only routine (i.e. monthly) ear cleaning needed. Other dogs have chronic ear problems and require for frequent cleaning.  Ear problems can often be traced back to genetics. Dogs with floppy ears or long hair tend to be predisposed to ear problems because the ear canal simply does not have as much air exposure.

Bathing:  Always use a soap-free shampoo that is intended for dogs.  Most dogs should be bathed monthly, but bathing once a week or 3 times a year is not considered harmful either.  Frequency of bathing will be dependent on how quickly your dog gets “dirty”. 

Health Problems and Life Expectancy

Mixed-breed dogs do not generally come with a list of hereditary problems. This is not to say your dog will be perfectly healthy, but mixed breed dogs are less likely to possess breed-specific hereditary heath and behavioral problems. If your dog is a Labrador mix, she could still have hip dysplasia, but it may be less severe because the breed is basically “diluted.”  Though any dog may have serious hereditary problems, it seems the health risks are lower with mixed breeds.

Adapted from:      

http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/mixbreed/mutt.htm

http://www.pets.ca/articles/article-dog-exercise.htm

http://dogs.about.com/od/grooming/tp/5-Basics-of-Dog-Grooming.htm

http://dogs.about.com/od/dogbreeds/qt/joyofmutts.htm