Let us talk about pets:

Pedigree or non-pedigree? dog or bitch?

by Ruwini Jayawardana

Crossbred dogs are generally not expensive to buy. A cross between two recognized breeds is likely to have characteristics somewhere between the two. Thy have their own "mutt" charm and their apparent type may be just what you are looking for.

But always keep in mind that the tiny pup may grow up into an enormous adult. The best way in judging the size is to take a look at both parents of the puppy.

It is not necessarily true that crossbred dogs are healthier than purebreds, as many people believe. Any skilled veterinary surgeon would be able to tell you of crossbreds or mongrels suffering from recognizable, inherited diseases.

The advantage of getting a pure bred dog is that you would be able to recognize the specific breed that you are acquiring. From a reputable breeder a Labrador puppy will grow into a Labrador dog, of a size and weight that is within the breed norm and with potential behavior characteristics typical of the breed.

There needs to be advice available to deal with whatever problems may arise as a feature of the breed. Also if you choose a pedigree dog, you must still look for a strain in the breed that fits your lifestyle. Gundogs (sporting) can from a "working" or a "show" strain.

Without doubt each breed has problems which are inherited within the breed category. It is up the potential owner to enquire about these problems, and to take independent advice on their significance. It is worth bearing in mind that no species of animal, including human beings, is free from inheritable diseases. Dogs may be less afflicted than most.

Making up your mind whether to have a male or female (dog or bitch) should be done early. Dogs tend to have a more "macho" outlook on life than bitches. If that quality attracts you, then you should buy a male species.

Dogs are possibly more outgoing and on average a little harder to train.

However they are more responsive once trained.

Dogs do not come into season twice a year, with the attendant bother of oestrous discharges, and the attraction of all the dogs in the neighborhood. But keep in mind that it is the males that are attracted, not the females. Therefore, if you decide to keep a male, you may have to keep an eye on him or else have to drag him home each night after his wanderings.

The female is more likely to be a better family pet. She is less likely to be aggressive, although dominance is as much a breed characteristic as it is related to the sex of the dog. Bitches are much less likely to try to wander for most of the year as they are inclined to be more loving to their human family.