Are Mutts Healthier than Purebreds? New Study Says NO!

by Nevena Nacic

Published: May 20th, 2024

sanjagrujic/Shutterstock

Are mixed-breed dogs really healthier? A new study of more than 27,000 companion dogs discovered that mutts are just as likely to experience health issues as their purebred counterparts. It turns out that a smaller gene pool doesn’t make purebred dogs more prone to common doggy ailments when compared to mixed-breed dogs.

The study led by researchers from the Texas A&M School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences found that while certain purebreds are prone to specific health problems, both purebreds and mixed-breeds are equal in terms of the overall frequency of health condition diagnoses.

“There are several well-known diseases that frequently occur in specific dog breeds,” explained Dr. Kate Creevy, chief veterinary officer of the Dog Aging Project and a professor in the VMBS’ Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences. “This has helped perpetuate the misconception that all purebred dogs are more prone to diseases, but that is not the case.”

The study, which surveyed a total of 27,541 dogs, identified 25 breeds that made up around 60% of the purebred dog population within the Dog Aging Project. Those breeds include Labrador retriever, golden retriever, German shepherd, poodle, Australian shepherd, dachshund, border collie, Chihuahua, beagle, Pembroke Welsh corgi, boxer, shih tzu, miniature schnauzer, pug, Havanese, cavalier King Charles spaniel, Great Dane, greyhound, Boston terrier, Siberian husky, Shetland sheepdog, English springer spaniel, Australian cattle dog, and Doberman pinscher.

Scientists found that within these 25 breeds, 53 medical conditions make up the top owner-reported medical issues. “The medical conditions reported by owners varied considerably,” said Creevy. “However, some conditions appeared frequently in the top 10 reported health conditions by breed.”

The 10 health conditions most reported for purebred dogs include dental calculus (hardened plaque), dog bites, extracted teeth, giardia, osteoarthritis, seasonal allergies, ear infections, heart murmur, fractured teeth, and cataracts.

For mixed-breed dogs, the top 10 conditions were nearly the same, with cataracts and heart murmur being replaced with torn/broken toenails and chocolate toxicity.

Some maladies, such as dental calculus and osteoarthritis appeared roughly the same in purebreds and mutts. However, some conditions were more commonly seen in one than the other. For example, purebreds had more extracted teeth, and dog bites, while mixed-breeds had more ear infections.

Out of 53 owner-reported medical conditions, 26 didn’t differ significantly between purebred and mixed-breed dogs. What’s more interesting is that 22.3% of owners of purebred dogs reported their canine companions having no health issues, compared to 20.7% of mixed-breed owners, meaning that purebred dogs were healthier than mixed-breed dogs.

The most important finding of this study is that dog breed is just one aspect of pet health to think about when creating a dog care plan, or researching what kind of dog to adopt.

“People should consider many factors when choosing a dog, including environment, lifestyle, social interactions and physical activity that will be available to the dog,” said Creevy. “Planning for both preventative care and medical care as the dog ages is also prudent. Dog owners should also talk with their primary care veterinarians about the kinds of medical problems to which their new dog might be particularly prone based on breed, size, sex, etc.”

Researchers think that the main reason people believe mixed-breed dogs are healthier than purebreds is because certain breeds of dogs suffer from well-known health problems. For example, German shepherds and Labrador retrievers are prone to hip dysplasia, poodles are more likely to get glaucoma, and Great Danes are prone to bloat.

The fact that some purebreds are susceptible to breed-specific diseases, while mixed-breeds aren’t has contributed to the myth that purebred dogs are more likely to get sick than their mixed-breed counterparts. We now know that’s not the case thanks to this new study.

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Nevena Nacic

Nevena is a freelance writer and a proud mom of Teo, a 17-year-old poodle, and Bob, a rescued grey tabby cat. Since childhood, she had a habit of picking up strays and bringing them home (luckily, her parents didn't know how to say NO). When she's not writing for her fellow pet parents, Nevena can be found watching Teo sleep. To her defense, that's not as creepy as it sounds!

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People Online are Losing it Over Real-Life Rainbow Bridge Memorial

Social media has become a powerful space for pet parents to share the joys and challenges of living with their furry companions. From heartwarming adoptions to hilarious antics, our online feeds are filled with proof of the special bond that is formed between pets and their humans. But there is another side to pet ownership, a bittersweet time when we could use the understanding of other pet parents. That is, of course, the inevitable loss of a beloved pet and the emotions that come with it. A recent viral video has sparked a wave of shared grief and emotion on TikTok.The video, originally posted by @onlyjulianamarie on TikTok, shares a beautiful real-life “Rainbow Bridge” memorial in Lake Lure, NC. It includes a literal rainbow bridge upon which countless pet owners have placed collars of all colors and sizes to memorialize the pets that have left a lasting mark on their hearts. Many of the collars include tags adorned with the name of a special pet or a heartfelt engraved message. Others are nameless; their stories known only to the loving pet parents who placed them there.

These Are The Longest Living Cat Breeds, Study Shows

On average, cats have a life expectancy of 12 to 15 years, and most breeds fit well within these limits. However, it seems that some kitties are built a bit differently – a new study in feline life expectancies has revealed which cat breeds are more likely to live longer than you’d expect. The study analyzed thousands of pet cats across the UK and revealed that some cats, like the Burmese or the Birmans, will live more than twice as long as the shortest-lived cat breeds.“In terms of life expectancy, there has been very little research done on cats,”  said Dan O’Neill, Senior Lecturer in Companion Animal Epidemiology at the Royal Veterinary College in the UK. “They’re kind of invisible to science, especially compared to dogs.”O’Neill and his team analyzed data on 7936 cats that died between 2019 and 2021. This was some tremendous work that required plenty of patience. The data has been taken mostly from vets across the UK. And although it sounds grim, this careful data research has helped the team to learn a lot more about cat longevity. The results were interesting, to say the least. It was concluded that, on average, the studied cats had a life expectancy of just over 11.7 years. What is more, female kitties outlived their male counterparts – they had an expected lifespan of 12.5 years, compared to 11.2 years for males. However, the most interesting part of the study revealed that crossbreed cats tend to live longer than purebreds. The former has an average lifespan of 11.9 years, and the latter is at 10.4 years. But which breeds will live the longest? According to the data, the  Birman and  Burmese cats are at the very top of the list, both having an average life expectancy of 14.4 years. At the very bottom are  Bengal cats and  Sphynxes, having life expectancies of 8.5 and 6.7 years respectively. Another key result achieved by this team is known as “life tables”. This helps predict the average remaining lifespan of cats at different ages. It can also be used to help cat owners decide how to treat their ill pets. “If your cat is 11 or 12 years old and is only expected to live another year, then it’s probably not worth doing surgery, for example,” says O’Neill.

The Latest Pet Industry Trends from Global Pet Expo 2024

On March 20-22, 2024, pet industry professionals from across the globe gathered at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida, for the Global Pet Expo. Presented by the American Pet Products Association (APPA) and the Pet Industry Distributors Association (PIDA), the exhibit floor showcased 1,100+ companies, including 300 first-time exhibitors. This included 1,000+ product launches, the latest pet industry news, a packed New Products Showcase, and more! But what did we discover while attending the show? Here are some of the hottest trends in the industry, as seen at this year’s show: Mind the BudgetIn the last decade, we have seen a growing interest in spoiling our pets regardless of the cost. However, following the events of 2020, many pet parents are feeling the pinch that is society’s current financial state. So, how do we reconcile the two? Many brands came into this year’s show with a focus on providing high-quality pet care with a budget-friendly mindset. This included two distinct approaches. Some companies focused on finding ways to keep the price point low. This included changes to production, simplified designs, and sourcing quality supplies at a fraction of the cost. They then transferred these savings directly to the consumer, allowing you to spoil your pets without breaking the bank. The other trend we saw was to create premium products that, while requiring an upfront investment, are designed to last for years to come. By not having to replace them repeatedly, you will save money over the product's lifespan. Overall, we were excited to see so many ways pet parents can improve their pet’s quality of life, even when finances are tight. Sustainability for the Future A growing understanding of the impact of our pets on the environment has put pressure on the pet industry to find ways to prioritize sustainability. Some experts say that caring for a medium-sized dog can have a similar carbon footprint to driving a large SUV. How do we address this without giving up our pets? We saw several brands rising to the challenge! There was a growing number of companies creating adorable and functional toys from recycled materials. Snugarooz had a wide assortment of brightly colored, crinkly, and squeaky plush toys made from recycled water bottles. WestPaw added more products to their popular Seaflex line of 100% recyclable toys made with recycled ocean-bound plastic. We also saw a focus on sustainability in pet food and treats. One company that really stood out was Arch Pet Food. The company previously demonstrated their commitment to eco-friendly pet ownership by introducing alternative proteins in their food and treats. One product that we found very impressive was the Dehydrated Copi treats, made from an invasive species in our waterways. Other shifts towards sustainability included changes in packaging to reduce unnecessary plastics, the use of hemp-based bedding for small animals, and more sustainable decisions being made during production.

How Do I Find a Lost Hamster (or Other Rodents)?

Few things are as frightening for a pet parent as discovering your beloved pet is missing. Don’t panic! While finding a lost hamster (or gerbil, mouse, or rat) can feel daunting, there are steps you can take to increase your chances of a happy reunion.These little escape artists are surprisingly good at hiding, making locating your pet even more difficult.Luckily, their small size often confines them to predictable hiding spots. Keep reading to discover tips, tricks, and proven tactics to help you find and catch your furry friend as quickly as possible.What is the First Thing You Should Do if Your Pet is Missing? It's a heart-wrenching moment when you realize your pet is nowhere to be found. Take a deep breath and try not to panic! If you know that your pet has just escaped their cage or enclosure, close all doors to keep them from leaving the room. This will significantly narrow down your search area. However, if you are unsure of when your pet went missing, there is a chance that they have slipped out of the room already. Take a look around your surroundings and take note of any obvious places they may be hiding. Think like a hamster (a mouse, a rat, or whatever pocket pet you are searching for). Try getting down to their level to check under furniture and low to the ground spaces. Most importantly, don’t wait before starting your search. The longer you wait, the further they can travel. Where Would Your Pocket Pet Hide in the House? Rodents are masters of finding small spaces and places to hide. This may make the process of searching for your pet feel overwhelming. However, there are a few common hiding places that could help you get started… Blankets and Towels: Rodents love feeling warm and cozy, so blankets and towels provide the perfect hiding area. If you have any lying around, lift them up slowly and carefully in case your pet has crawled into the folds. Shoes: This is another spot that provides a nesting-like environment. Check inside any shoes or boots to see if your pet has snuggled in. Laundry Baskets and Hampers: If you have laundry accessible, you may want to slowly go through it piece by piece. Not only does your clothing offer a cozy place to snuggle in, similar to a blanket, but it also has enticing smells like perfumes, deodorant, soap/shampoo, and more. Boxes: Do you have any boxes or bins sitting around for storage purposes? Don’t overlook these dark, quiet spaces. Like their cage or enclosure, boxes can offer a feeling of safety and security. Closets and Cupboards: Another dark space your pet may seek to feel safe. Even if your dresser drawers are closed, that will not stop them from getting in. Be careful when sliding drawers open or closed in case your pet finds their way behind the drawer. Furniture: Dressers aren’t the only pieces of furniture that attract pets. Make sure to look under and behind furniture or in and around cushions. Look for any holes or spaces in couch backs or box springs. Heaters: Pets are attracted to warmth, so your heaters are a prime spot. Check around space heaters or in heating vents. While you’re looking, check for any cracks or holes that might allow your pet to access the space inside your walls. If they get into that space, they will be able to move through your house completely undetected. Recognizing this as soon as possible will allow you to take steps to catch them sooner rather than later.

How Do I Introduce My Dog to Agility at Home?

Have you ever watched a dog on social media zoom through a tunnel or weave through poles with joy and happiness on their face? If so, you may be considering getting involved in dog agility.This exciting sport is a great way to bond with your pup while providing both physical and mental stimulation. But where do you begin? Many dog parents who are considering getting involved in agility quickly become overwhelmed with the costs and commitment required to compete in this sport professionally.In this article, I will guide you through everything you need to know to introduce your dog to agility in the comfort of your own home. From building simple obstacles to mastering basic commands, you can start exploring this sport with your best friend today.Can All Dogs Do Agility? If you have been watching dog agility events, you may have noticed that a few breeds often dominate the sport. Many of the top competitors are border collies, Australian shepherds, and golden retrievers. However, if you watch long enough, you will notice that even the professional competitors are enjoyed by a wide variety of different dogs, including many breeds and sizes. Whether your dog is a purebred border collie or a mixed-breed rescue, they can take part in (and love) agility. How Do You Know if Your Dog Will Be Good at Agility? While any dog can participate in agility, a few key traits distinguish casual hobby athletes from the top dogs in professional agility competitions. For dog parents who want to use agility activities as a fun bonding experience at home, top performance may not matter. However, if you are interested in getting into the sport professionally, you want to look for the following traits: Active and high-energy Good coordinationHighly trainable Ability to concentrate despite distractionsConfident Easily motivated Good health

According to a New Study, Crows Can Count Out Loud

It’s no secret that crows are very intelligent creatures, and are capable of some truly stunning feats. However, a new study sheds light on a previously unknown skill of theirs – one that makes them truly unique in the world of animals. According to a team of scientists, crows can count out loud, quite similarly to human toddlers – and are the only other animal except humans to do so.This study is titled “Crows 'Count' the Number of Self-Generated Vocalizations" and was released on May 23rd, 2024 in the popular journal Science. The study found that crows are capable of producing a certain number of “caws” in response to auditory or visual stimuli. This means that they were able to count out loud between one and four. Why is that so important, though?"Producing a specific number of vocalizations with purpose requires a sophisticated combination of numerical abilities and vocal control," the researchers explained. "Our results demonstrate that crows can flexibly and deliberately produce an instructed number of vocalizations by using the 'approximate number system', a non-symbolic number estimation system shared by humans and animals."During the course of the experiment, the research team presented three crows with random auditory and visual stimuli. These included sounds from various instruments and Arabic numbers. "Through trial and error, the birds learned that each cue corresponded to a set number of caws between one and four," the team members wrote. "After crowing the vocalizations out (cawing four times for a sound or symbol associated with four caws, for example), the birds were trained to peck the screen displaying them to signal they had finished."After the training was done, the crows – much to everyone’s surprise – gave correct answers when asked to say “the proper number of caws”. Their counting skills were quickly compared to those of toddlers. "This competency in crows also mirrors toddlers' enumeration skills before they learn to understand cardinal number words and may therefore constitute an evolutionary precursor of true counting where numbers are part of a combinatorial symbol system," the team shared.This goes beyond everything that was known about crows thus far. It just goes to show that crows are much more than regular birds in their behavior and abilities. And they might be much smarter than we previously realized – and we already thought they were exceptionally intelligent to begin with.

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