Mixed Dog Breeds

For some reason, mixed dog breeds live longer than purebreds. Our family's Spitz/Terrier mix lived to be 20 years old!

When looking for a mix, try to find one that is a combination of breeds with good temperament. These canines can be found in sporting dog breeds and herding dog breeds.

Avoid a mixture of aggressive or strong willed dog types, such as canines that are guard or fighting breeds.

For smaller mixes, usually a combination of the toy breeds or small terriers are a good choice.

Lady is our collie/husky mixed breed dog. She is a cross between a herding dog and a working breed.

When we adopted her we hoped she would have more of the collie characteristics but it turned out she was more husky in attitude. Not a problem, she's been great all these years.

If a purebred is too expensive to consider, find a mix that will fit in very well. Look for a friendly dog that comes to you on its own and asks to be loved.

And please, I can't stress this enough, go to your local shelter, SPCA or humane society to adopt. There are thousands of dogs abandoned or abused in these facilities all looking for a loving "pet parent" or family.

Most of these dogs will be put to sleep after a certain period of time. So please adopt if you can. The national ASPCA will have info on local shelters. They also have other information you may find helpful.

The following photos are of two really cute mixed breed dogs that belong to our niece, Juliet and her mom, Patty. The first is a basset/dachshund mixed breed. Her name is Maybelle. What a cutie! Real long body and little tiny legs.