According to conventional wisdom, mixed-breed dogs and cats are healthier than their purebred counterparts. On the surface, it makes sense: Dip too often into a shallow gene pool and the pet is more likely to inherit health problems. So mixing things up between breeds should create healthier genetic hybrids, right?
Are Mixed Mutts and Designer Dogs healthier than Purebred dogs?
Mixed-Breed Dogs Aren’t Immune to Genetic Disorders
In a five-year study of veterinary cases at the University of California-Davis, there was no difference between mixed-breed and purebred dogs in the prevalence of common inherited disorders. Even designer-bred dogs were being seen with hereditary conditions that it was assumed crossbreeding would eliminate: hip dysplasia, epilepsy, cancer, hypothyroidism, eye disorders and more.
Although mixed-breed dogs were just as likely to inherit health problems, there were a few exceptions, according to the study, which will be published in a veterinary journal later this year. Some genetic disorders remained isolated to specific breeds.
Still, the findings make sense: If you cross a Labrador Retriever that has hip dysplasia with a Poodle that has hip dysplasia, what do you get? Chances are, a Labradoodle with hip dysplasia. In addition to hip problems, Labradoodles are now being diagnosed with Addison’s disease (a deficiency in adrenal hormones) and elbow dysplasia – two genetic disorders that are common to purebred Labradors and Poodles.
Of course, there’s no way to control genetic disorders passed on by the accidental backyard mating or a tryst with the neighborhoodRomeo. But it’s possible to prevent many inherited conditions in pure- and cross-bred pets that are mated on purpose.
How Can Breeders Help?
Before breeding, Dr. Bell recommends that all animals be tested for heritable conditions such as hip dysplasia, deafness and eye disorders, as determined by the national parent club for each breed. Breeders are encouraged to register the test results on a national health database, such as the Canine Health Information Center (CHIC), sponsored by the American Kennel Club/Canine Health Foundation and the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals.
Although a breeder can choose to keep test results private, open disclosures of results for breeding dogs and their close relatives can help identify potential risks. Breeders can search the database for a healthy mate that will produce the best offspring.
What Potential Pet Owners Can Do
Thinking about buying a puppy from a breeder?
Potential owners learn about inheritable conditions associated with each breed, so they can ask breeders for verification of health testing before they purchase a pet.