Why Buy a Purebred?

The best reason to buy a purebred is predictability. Purebreds are bred to meet a breed standard that lays out size, appearance, and temperament. You will know up front how big the mature adult will be, what type of coat he'll have and its grooming requirements, how much space he'll need and how much exercise. You'll know what kind of personality traits he's likely to have based on what the breed was bred to do.

Advantages of a Purebred Dog

• If your dog is from a reputable breeder, you know what it should look and act like when it grows up
• If you need a dog for a specific job (like herding or police work) you can pick a breed that has aptitude at that sport
• If you need a dog with specific qualities (small size, non shedding, active, etc.) you can choose a dog from a breed with those qualities
• If you are interested in conformation dog showing, you must have a purebred dog

Disadvantages of a Purebred Dog

• It may take you a lot longer to find the dog that you want
• You will pay more for the dog initially (but see the article on the costs of owning a dog)

Myths about Purebred Dogs

• They are less healthy than mixed-breed dogs, not true, in fact any dog is generally healthier when purchased from a reputable breeder
• Purebred dogs are only for show. This is simply not true, there are pets in every litter of "show dogs".
• Mixed breeds have better temperaments, this is not true, mixed breeds have unpredictable temperaments, a purebred dogs temperament is usually very predictable if bred properly.
• Purebreds are too high strung. This is not true you can get dogs from any litter that are high strung. Some purebred dogs are bred to be high in drive especially the working dogs. With pure bred dogs again this is predictable before you purchase them - it all depends on breeding.