Mixed Breed Dogs

Posted by Joy Butler Jan 25, 2007

If you read my articles you will notice I'm writing a series on mixed breed dogs. These are the most plentiful of breeds and are reported to be the most popular pet dog. I've had several purebreds and they were wonderful dogs but mostly I've had mixed breeds and they were just as smart and well-behaved as the purebreds. As a child, I grew up on a farm, with a full blooded Collie. I named her Lassie and she was my constant companion, several times blocking me from snake bites. She was the gentlest soul ever, but didn't hesitate to stand up for me if the neighbor kids played too rough with me. Another purebred who stands out is the German Shepherd I had for almost 13 years. That beautiful boy was the first dog I ever trained and showed and he earned his Companion Dog obedience title the first three shows out, and within only a month's time. I've heard that's pretty rare and if he hadn't been smarter than me, we never would have pulled that off. But my mixed breeds have been pretty wonderful too. They have so much personality and seem to be the most loving. Carly is a terrier mix that I've had six years. Trust, for her, was a long time coming but she's very loyal and is a one-person dog. She's also a dog's dog. She patrols the yard in the day and the house at night to keep intruders away. She runs, barks, and digs but then likes to curl up by my leg and let out a loud sigh. When I'm typing on the computer and she's resting peacefully, I know all is well. You can read her story on the 18 lb size Chicken Soup for the Soul dog food bags. Later on, I'll tell you about more of my dogs.