Kæledyrsbyttehjørne

Did you specifically want a mutt?

Note: read more to learn how you can win a free copy of my 2014 Mutt Calendar. You can also purchase a calendar for $14.99 plus shipping here.

I’m curious to hear from all of you about why and how you chose your dogs. There are so many different ways to go about choosing a dog.

Here’s what I’m wondering:

1. Did you specifically choose a mixed-breed dog? (Or a purebred dog?) Or didn’t it matter to you?

2. What other factors besides “breed” played a role in your decision? For example: Cost, health of the dog, temperament, size, etc.

How I chose my mutt

When I adopted my lab mix Ace, I knew I wanted to adopt a dog in need of a home. I was not interested in going to a breeder at the time, mostly for cost reasons. It was also a moral issue for me to help a dog in need – but not necessarily a mutt.

I ended up with a mutt because mutts are just more common. I would’ve adopted a purebred dog if the right dog had come along. I inquired about a husky, but the humane society would not allow any huskies to go to homes with cats at that time.

I considered a handful of mixed-breed dogs, and most of the shelters and rescue groups did not return my emails or phone calls. one of the reasons Ace worked out is because his previous owner returned my calls and patiently told me lots of details about my future dog.

I had strict requirements – must be a dog that can go running, must be cat and dog friendly, must be kennel trained and housebroken. Luckily, obedience skills were a non-issue for me. I figured I would be able to teach those. ?

It all worked out perfectly. Ace became my running buddy. My writing dog. My heart dog.

We’ve had many adventures – camping in negative temps, tubing on Minnesota lakes, backpacking in Western North Dakota. Not only was my dog in our wedding, but he was there when Josh proposed along Lake Superior.

Ace is quite possibly my “once in a lifetime dog,” although I hope there can be several of those.

How about the rest of you?

Did you specifically choose a mixed-breed dog or a purebred dog? Or didn’t it matter?

Leave a comment if you’d like a chance to win a copy of my 2014 mutt dog calendar. I’ll choose a winner at random and announce it Friday here on this post. Edit: Congrats to Jan. You are the winner of a free mutt calendar!