Some people have a fondness for a particular breed of dog or cat. That’s fair enough, although with dogs you do need to be able to deal with the temperament of the breed. Personally, I’m happy to have pets without an illustrious pedigree, and here are some reasons why.
This is probably the most important reason for picking a non-pedigree animal. Mongrels tend to be more robust, whereas breeds can be prone to certain medical issues. For example, German Shepherds often have hip problems, boxers may have issues with their breathing, and Persian cats commonly experience trouble with their tear ducts.
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I’m sure that the majority of pedigree owners are responsible and caring, but there is a minority that treats animals as some kind of fashion accessory (and in certain quarters, a status symbol). An animal should always be loved and cared for, and a good owner will be more concerned about offering a good home, rather than having the ‘right’ breed.
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Most shelters are full to bursting with unwanted animals who desperately need a home. Most of these are not pedigrees, and may be overlooked because of this. Yet they would make excellent pets if only someone gave them a chance.
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Pedigree animals can be extremely expensive. Not only do you have to pay hundreds, if not thousands of dollars to buy the animal, but if it does experience health problems, that could also be costly. My first moggy lived until 12 with only 1 minor trip to the vet.
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Certain breeds can be temperamental, whereas non-pedigrees tend to be calmer. Obviously any dog needs a lot of attention, but since pedigrees are often bred for a particular purpose – eg, hunting – their character will often be based around that.
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Pedigree dogs really need an owner familiar with the breed and its particular requirements. Increasingly, shelters are taking in pedigree animals that the owner simply cannot cope with, and then as well as finding homes for the many non-breeds, they also have to find suitable owners for the pedigrees.
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Non-pedigrees tend to live longer – in the case of cats, 15 years is not unusual. So your beloved companion will be around for a long time, with less risk of medical problems shortening their life.
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If you are looking for an animal as companion, rather than to breed, show or to be a working dog, then a mongrel will fit the bill admirably. For cat lovers, an ordinary moggy will make a excellent pet.
What animals do you pet-loving readers have? Have you always kept a particular breed, or is there one that you like? Or if you prefer non-pedigree pets, why?
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