7 Reasons to Love a Mutt

For the past two decades, the first Sunday of May has gone to the dogs—mutts, to be more specific. Created by author Karen Derrico, Mayday for Mutts is an annual celebration that aims to promote the adoption of mixed-breed canines through various events and activities. 

Mutts make up 53 percent of all dogs, and 75 percent of all shelter dogs in the United States. Sadly, they tend to get overlooked compared to their purebred cousins, but having mixed or unknown origins shouldn’t make them any less deserving of a loving home. 

Mixed-breed canines come in all shapes and sizes, from lap dogs who are suitable for apartment living to bigger pups who would make furrific adventure buddies. Mutts can have pointy or floppy ears, long or stubby tails, fur of various lengths and textures, and markings that can’t be seen on other dogs. While purebreds tend to look the same, the chances of finding another mutt who looks exactly like yours are very slim. You can expect people to stop, look, and even ask about your pooch when you’re out and about with them.

While selective breeding has preserved a breed’s desirable traits, it has also kept the not-so-desirable ones. Because mutts come from a wider gene pool, they are generally healthier than their purebred counterparts, as having mixed genes means that there will be fewer genes from just one breed. Additionally, the gene pool from one breed can cancel out unwelcome genes from another breed, putting mutts at a lower risk of suffering from genetic conditions. Though inherited disorders can affect all dogs, it is less likely that your mixed-breed pup will experience hip dysplasia, knee issues, certain cancers, and more.

Fewer health risks equal fewer trips to the vet, and therefore, more savings for you. The initial cost of adopting a mutt from a shelter is also a lot less than getting a purebred from a breeder. Depending on where you live, adoption fees range from $100 to $300, and this typically covers vaccinations, spaying or neutering, and microchipping. You might even be able to adopt your new best friend for even less, as many shelters will also run events with discounted adoption fees. By contrast, a purebred dog can set you back thousands of dollars.

Mixed-breed pooches are just as smart and trainable as purebred canines. If given the chance, they can excel in obedience, agility, nosework, and more! Some mutts may be better at certain activities due to their personality traits, but most can be trained to do a variety of tasks. Spend some time training and getting to know your four-legged friend—they just might surprise you with their natural talents and how fast they pick up new skills! When it comes to training, mixed-breed dogs can definitely keep up with purebred pups.

Are you looking for a young, energetic dog who can accompany you on your hikes and outdoor adventures? Or would you rather have a calm, senior pooch who will be content just snoozing at your feet while you read a book or watch TV? Whatever your lifestyle or preference, there’s a mutt out there who’s made just for you. And you probably don’t need to look far and wide to find your pawfect match—your canine BFF could just be waiting for you at your local shelter or rescue group!

Each year, millions of dogs enter shelters around the US, with mutts making up 75 percent of the population. Unfortunately, millions of shelter dogs are also put down each year, even though the majority of them are healthy or have conditions that can be treated. When you adopt a mutt from a shelter, you’re not only getting a puptastic new family member, but you’re also saving a life! Mixed-breed pups tend to get overlooked when it comes to adoption, but they deserve a happily-ever-after too!

Love comes in many forms, and a mutt will love you unconditionally. Whether you adopted them from a shelter or took them in as a stray, they’ll be very grateful you did! While your dog can’t say “I love you,” they are always communicating with you. Some of the ways your furry pal may show their affection include following you from room to room, gazing into your eyes, leaning against you, greeting you excitedly when you come home, and snuggling with you during bedtime.

Mutts are pawsome! If you decide to open your heart to a mixed-breed dog, you definitely won’t regret it!