Purebred refers to domesticated animals whose genetic traits were intentionally selected and cultivated through selection and breeding, in contrast with natural or spontaneous breeding that occurs naturally or spontaneously among wild populations.
Selective breeding’s goal is to produce offspring with predictably predictable traits, but this practice may also limit gene pool size, leading to inbreeding and the eventual collapse of breed populations.
Definition
Purebred refers to any animal with both parents from the same breed, as well as an established and documented pedigree. Usually this pedigree is maintained by a kennel club or similar organization which recognizes breeds and maintains standards for them. Purebred also refers to any dog bred deliberately with specific traits in mind and in order to meet or surpass breed standards.
Breeders of purebred animals select parent dogs based on appearance, health history and their ability to reproduce desired traits in offspring. Once selected parent dogs have been selected as sire or whelping mothers for puppies sired or whelped from them, this ensures their offspring will display all expected physical and behavioral traits as expected by breeders – one reason purebred puppies and dogs can be so predictable in appearance, behavior and working ability.
Closed registries and breeding only “pure” animals have generated considerable controversy among breeders. Critics argue that such breeding practices create a smaller gene pool and increase risks of negative traits or genetic disorders due to inbreeding; those in favor of closed registries insist the benefits outweigh these risks.
Another common misnomer in regard to purebred animals is using the term “pedigree.” Pedigree refers to an animal’s family tree, showing its lineage back several generations; purebred refers to an animal’s breeding history which can be verified through an organization such as kennel clubs.
Though controversial, there are many who choose to own and breed purebred dogs. Many believe the breed standards set by recognized kennel clubs provide an effective framework for selecting an ideal canine to match their lifestyle and preferences; some even participate in dog shows and trials to showcase its abilities and physical attributes.
Purpose
Purebred dogs are designed to produce offspring with consistent physical and behavioral traits that can be predicted more easily than with mixed breeds, which often possess various combinations of genes. Their predictability makes purebreds an appealing option for owners seeking dogs with specific appearance or temperament characteristics – for instance a German shepherd may possess an assertive nature while Labrador retrievers and Beagles tend to be eager pleasers while Beagles tend to pursue rabbits relentlessly!
Purebred dogs tend to be easier to train due to their consistent characteristics, making them a good option for dog owners looking for their pets to perform specific tasks, such as herding or hunting, or those seeking a service or guide dog. Working with a trainer who specializes in that breed will be key in helping achieve your goals with your pup.
Ethics-minded and responsible breeders are committed to maintaining their breeds as closely to their original form as possible, which benefits both their dogs’ health as well as preserving its history and traditions. Furthermore, breeders can provide prospective owners with detailed family histories for each pup they sell as well as insight into typical health concerns that their breed could face.
Even though most purebred dogs no longer serve their original function as herders or cattle ranchers, they still play an important role in many people’s lives. From Australian shepherds nipping at cow’s heels to Dalmatians running behind fire trucks – purebred dogs make wonderful companions and an integral part of daily life.
Research on purebred dogs has advanced scientific knowledge in several fields, such as genetics and medicine. Since most of a dog’s 19,000 genes are homologues of those found in other mammals, studying one may offer insights into human disease or conditions as well.
Benefits
Purebred dogs tend to exhibit more predictable characteristics and personalities than mutts, making it easier for owners to predict what the appearance, size and grooming or exercise needs will be of their pet in advance. This can be particularly helpful when training an agility, search and rescue work, herding or police dog work task such as agility. Breeders also encourage purebreds to engage their instinctive hunting and herding behaviors more readily compared with mutts.
Many people prefer working with purebred dogs because it allows them to predict what their temperament and abilities will be like, which often is determined by a dog’s historical role, such as digging badger holes out or herding large herds across rugged landscapes. Breeders may also selectively breed for specific traits like color or coat patterns which could prove helpful in show competition training sessions.
There has been much discussion as to whether purebred dogs are healthier than mutts, however this ultimately depends on how the dog is cared for. When purchasing from a responsible breeder with health-tested parents, your dog will be less likely to develop genetic health conditions later down the line; particularly important considering one “desirable” trait can have serious ramifications on future generations; such was seen with the bulgy eyes seen among pugs.
Inbreeding among purebred dogs can result in hip dysplasia, ear infections and eye conditions; additionally it may reduce vigor and shorten lifespan.
There have been many inspiring tales about purebred dogs who have done incredible things for humanity, like helping blind people cross streets or sniffing out drugs. National Purebred Dog Day serves to honor these incredible, loyal creatures and remind people that dog breeding should not be seen as an unsavoury industry by organizations such as PETA.
Disadvantages
Purebred dogs tend to be more expensive when purchasing from a breeder due to generations of selective breeding and careful care taken over time.
Purebred dogs can also be more vulnerable to genetic diseases and health issues due to inbreeding. Inbreeding refers to breeding two closely related (parents or siblings) dogs. Breeders sometimes inbreed their pups so they maintain desirable physical traits in the offspring, but this practice can result in serious health concerns in future generations.
Many health issues in dogs are hereditary, meaning they come from one or both parents. Due to inbreeding, purebreds tend to suffer more genetic diseases than mixed breeds – possibly leading to shorter lifespans for purebreds than for their mixed counterparts.
Purebred dogs tend to be more predictable in both appearance and temperament, making it easier for trainers and housebrokers to train them and housebreak them. Though this can be beneficial to some extent, remember that every animal is an individual with its own pace of growth and development.
Breeders can also be biased when selecting puppies to sell. While some breeders act responsibly and ensure all their puppies are healthy before selling them on, this can increase the risk of puppy mills and unethical backyard breeders.
If you decide on adopting a purebred dog, be prepared to dedicate both the necessary time and funds for proper care – from obedience training and socialization sessions, through to veterinary services and more. While this shouldn’t be a deal breaker for some prospective pet owners, this should certainly be taken into consideration before purchasing one of these pups. A rescue or shelter dog may often come at significantly less of a cost and often already come equipped with much of its initial veterinary work completed; saving considerable money overall in the process!