Why Choose a Purebred Dog?
For thousands of years, man has bred strains of dogs with desired characteristics and/or ability and instincts to perpetuate and enhance these characteristics. Purebred dogs are true to type when mated. Offspring are predictable in appearance and instinct, and are more reliable in temperament.
There are definite benefits to owning a purebred dog:
- The various types of purebred dogs are the result of many years of selective breeding. All breeds were developed for a specific purpose and documentation is available on their history and heritage. When you buy a purebred puppy you will know what to expect in the adult dog, as the size, temperament, appearance and characteristics are predictable.
- When considering a purebred dog, it is possible to narrow down the choices to those with attributes which most clearly fit into your personal lifestyle and interests. For example, whether the dog will be good with your children or whether you will have time to groom and exercise the dog properly.
- Responsible breeders will answer your questions and share their experiences and knowledge with you. They can provide background on the breed and discuss the characteristics of the adult dog. When you buy from a reputable Dogs ACT registered breeder you will receive a documented history of the puppy and you will be able to see one or both parents or other family members.
- Breeders have the experience to give puppies the care and nurturing they need at critical early stages. This not only ensures you’ll have a healthy puppy, but that the puppy is much less likely to develop into a difficult adult. Breeders will guide you in proper care and feeding, health issues and training. Breeders are there to help you and will continue to provide information and support as your puppy grows.
- Owners of registered purebred dogs can join Dogs ACT and participate in a variety of activities and events with their dogs. These provide an opportunity for social interaction with others with common or similar interests.
- All Dogs ACT members are bound by a code of practice and ethics covering responsible dog ownership and breeder responsibilities.
Debunking some common myths associated with purebred dogs
Let us clear up a few misconceptions before you select your next family pet.
Purebred dogs
Purebred dog breeders put a lot of time and money into ensuring their puppies are healthy. Careful records are kept with the pedigree of each dog and many breeders even go to the trouble of using artificial insemination from purebred dogs around the world to ensure the bloodlines in Australia stay strong and varied.
Do purebred dogs have better temperaments?
This is one of many ways in which purebred dogs are more predictable. When you get a crossbred dog you don’t know how it will turn out. In addition to health checks, responsible breeders make sure they use animals with good temperaments. Purebred dogs are just as loving and playful as any, but a predictable energy-level means you can find a dog that fits easily into your way of life.
Are purebred dogs healthier?
Crossbred dogs are unpredictable in many ways, including health and particular inherited diseases. Purebreds are tested for issues known to affect the breed, to make sure only healthy, fit dogs are used for breeding. Many diseases are being eradicated in this way. Crossing breeds creates a genetic lottery with un-known results that therefore cannot be tested for in advance.
Do purebred dogs make good house pets or are they just for showing?
Most dogs bred by Dogs ACT breeders are chosen to be much loved family pets. People choose purebred dogs because they can select a predictable pet that suits their lifestyle.
When you hear the word purebred do you think of a Poodle with a lion clip? A hairless Chinese Crested Dog? Those “showie” breeds can make great pets, but don’t forget that predictable purebreds include Golden Retrievers, German Shepherd Dogs, Rottweilers, Jack Russell Terriers and Border Collies!
Are there non-allergenic purebred dogs?
There’s no such thing as a non-allergenic dog. Low-shedding dogs often don’t aggravate allergies because the dog is less likely to leave hair or saliva around the house. An individual can be allergic to any or all of these things. Puppies that are a cross of two or more breeds may or may not grow into a low-shedding adult dog. There is no guarantee because they do not “breed true” like a purebred. A litter of crossbred puppies may have some that shed and some that don’t whereas a litter of a recognised breed will have the same, predictable coat.
The following list is a good starting point when researching suitable breeds for an allergy-sufferer. However, as each person’s allergies can differ greatly, it is advised that you spend time with a breed prior to purchase to find out if you are able to tolerate that particular breed of dog.
Some breeds with low-shedding coats:
- Standard Poodle
- Miniature Poodle
- Toy Poodle
- Yorkshire Terrier
- Portuguese Water Dog
- Australian Silky Terrier
- West Highland White Terrier
- Chinese Crested Dog
- Cairn Terrier
- Dandie Dinmont Terrier
- Irish Water Spaniel
- Bedlington Terrier
- Schnauzer
- Giant Schnauzer
- Miniature Schnauzer
- Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
- Kerry Blue Terrier
- Airedale Terrier
- Lagotto
- Bichon Frise
- Afghan Hound
Although low-shedding, many of these breeds require regular brushing to prevent knots and some with continuously growing coats need to be clipped several times a year.
For more information on any of these breeds, please visit our breed directory.
