Before getting a dog, you’ll need to make a number of decisions, including selecting the breed and type of dog you would like. You may have in mind the ideal dog in color, type, and temperament: one that looks attractive, is affectionate towards you and behaves perfectly in all respects. However, keep in mind that dogs are living beings, too – each is an individual with his own character make-up. You can’t , therefore, buy one “off the shelf,” programmed to be the perfect pet envisage.
(Check out Today’s Topic: Pros and Cons of Choosing Dog Types)
Dogs are available in three types: Pedigree, Cross-Breed and Non-Pedigree.
Pedigree
Pedigree
Pros:
- Having researched the breed, you can pinpoint your ideal pet, knowing, usually, what to expect in terms of appearance and character.
- There are many specific types and colors to choose from.
- Pedigrees are usually raised with the greatest of care, so you should expect a healthy animal.
Cons:
- Pedigrees are more expensive than cross-breeds.
- Some breeds are prone to hereditary problems, or particular ailments.
- Some breeds have particular character traits, or care requirements, that may not be appealing, or practical for your lifestyle and requirements.
- Certain breeds can be difficult to obtain as they are rare, or the demand for the breed exceeds availability.
Cross-breed
Cross-breed
Pros:
- Usually less expensive than pedigrees.
- Knowing what the parents are like, you have a fair idea of what to expect in terms of appearance and character.
- Generally more hardy than pedigrees, but this does depend on the cross and the genetic parentage.
- Because the crosses are usually intended, you can normally expect the resulting animals to have been raised with care and therefore be well socialized and healthy; but this is not always the case, so beware.
Cons:
- Not always easily available – especially if you want a particular cross-breed.
- Due to the character/behavior traits of the breeds involved, certain combinations can be quite “explosive,” resulting in a highly demanding, exhausting or even daunting pet.
Non-pedigree
Non-pedigree
Pros:
- Free, or inexpensive.
- Wide type and color choice.
- Usually easily available.
- Generally few health complications.
Cons:
- The character traits of the parents are generally unknown, so, to an extent, how the dog will turn out in terms of looks, behavior and character is uncertain.
- You may have to wait a while to find the age, color and sex of your choice.
- You can’t always be sure that the animal has been properly raised and cared for, so beware of any signs of ill health, behavior problems, and character defects.
