TheMixedBreed

A mixed breed dog is a dog that is a mixture of two or more breeds. Often called a mutt, crossbreed, or mongrel, these wonderful dogs have been increasing in popularity for the last several years. Crossbred dogs are often identified by combining the names of the parents' breed. For example, a cross between a Pug and a Chihuahua is known as a Chug, and the offspring of a Golden Retriever bred with a Poodle is called a Goldendoodle.

Many different body shapes are possible in mixed breeds. Extremes such as the curly tail of the Pug, or the flattened face of the Bulldog, rarely survive the first crossbreeding. The size of the resulting offspring is often midway between that of its' parents.

The behavior of a mixed breed dog will generally be somewhere midway between that of its parents. However, this isn't always the case, as you can have a Labrador/Shepherd mix with no ball chasing or protection instincts.

The mixed breed whose appearance offers no clue as to his background presents a real challenge. Often, only his behavior can be used to determine his mixture. A mixed breed owner can expect little from his dog's known background, less from his unknown background, and confusion from his appearance.

To avoid your dog from becoming a picky eater, it is important you don't feed him your finest surf and turf. Commercial dog food manufacturers spend millions of dollars researching dogs' nutritional needs, so their products are nutritionally complete and balanced. Their ongoing research ensures consumers that their products meet the requirements of a public that has become increasingly health-conscious, even where their pets are concerned.

Your mixed breed is getting the right food is your dog is healthy, in good weight, and his stools are well formed (not loose or rock hard) and consistent with his size. A healthy adult dog will have one or two bowel movements a day. Because of the puppy's daily meals, he will have several each day.