Therefore, among some experts and fans of such dogs, mongrel is still the preferred term. Dogs that are not purebred are not necessarily a mix of such defined breeds. Purebred dogs have been, for the most part, artificially created from random-bred populations by human selective breeding with the purpose of enhancing desired physical, behavioral, or temperamental characteristics. The implication that such dogs must be a mix of defined breeds may stem from an inverted understanding of the origins of dog breeds. In the United States, the term mixed-breed is a favored synonym over mongrel among individuals who wish to avoid negative connotations associated with the latter term. At other times, the word mongrel has been applied to informally purpose-bred dogs such as curs, which were created at least in part from mongrels, especially if the breed is not officially recognized.Īlthough mongrels are viewed as of less commercial value than intentionally bred dogs, they are thought to be less susceptible to genetic health problems associated with inbreeding (based on the theory of heterosis), and have enthusiasts and defenders who prefer them to intentionally bred dogs.Įstimates place the prevalence of mongrels at 150 million animals worldwide. Crossbreed dogs, and " designer dogs", while also a mix of breeds, differ from mongrels in being intentionally bred. Although the term mixed-breed dog is sometimes preferred, many mongrels have no known purebred ancestors. Mongrel of visually indeterminable lineage.Ī mongrel, mutt or mixed-breed dog is a dog that does not belong to one officially recognized breed and including those that are the result of intentional breeding.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |