Purebred Dog
Purebred dog is a specific dog breed with a documented pedigree in a stud book and at least recognized by national kennel club. We call it “anjing ras” or “anjing trah” here. The most popular kennel club (and most widely used as a reference) is American Kennel Club (AKC). What about Indonesia?:ayoindonesia Indonesia has PERKIN (Perkumpulan Kinologi Indonesia/All Indonesian Kennel Club). So, if you want your purebred dog to be registered you must contact PERKIN. Why do we need national kennel club? Well some dog breeds are not recognized by other kennel club. For example Kintamani dog isn’t registered in AKC, it is only recognized by PERKIN.

Purebred dog is a result from selective breeding. It is bred selectively to have specific appearance and traits. Because of this, purebred dog has narrower gene pool compared to a mutt. This becomes a problem for a genetic related disease. For example, Pug has a flat face and a bulging eyes anatomy. Because of that alone Pug has a breathing and eye problems. Corneal ulcers and dry eye have been known to occur. Pug’s breathing problems are stenotic nares, elongated soft palate, and collapsed trachea.

Another example, German Shepherd, a Large breed dog, is vulnerable to hip dysplasia and degenerative myelopathy and elbow. German Shepherd can experience bloat, a sudden and life-threatening swelling of the abdomen. Modern German Shepherd may has a worse health condition compared to the older one. This is because modern German Shepherd have extremely sloping topline (back) that causes poor gait in the hind legs. Original German Shepherd has straight back.

Mongrel
A mongrel is a mixed breed dog in general. But you need to differentiate a mongrel with a crossbreed. Crossbreed dog is intentionally bred from two different purebred dogs to have a desired appearance and traits, while mongrel is a dog that bred from dogs with no purebred ancestors. We call mongrel “anjing kampung” or “anjing campuran” here.

Because mongrel isn’t a result of selective breeding, mongrel has a wider gene pool compared to purebred dog. This make mongrel less likely to have a genetic related disease. Inbreeding is also less likely to happen so it might produces healthier dog. Mongrel is harder to get in a good and proper pet shop, so its health and diet is not guaranteed. Mongrel is usually not vaccinated. Unless you adopt it in animal shelter.

It is also harder to find mongrel with specific appearance and traits you desire. You might will never be able to find mongrel as big as Saint Bernard, or as intimidating as Dobermann and Rottweiler, or as cute as West Highland Terrier, or as elegant as Afghan Hound. But you will find a dog that is second to no one.

Purebred Dog

Mongrel

So, which one will you choose? Whichever dog you choose you should choose it with your whole heart, take care of it with love , be sure to make it happy and comfortable with you . And DON’T EVER GET RID OF YOUR DOG BY THROWING IT AWAY:dor . If you really can’t handle your dog anymore you should give it to another person capable of taking care of it, or send it to animal shelter. Remember your dog is your responsibility.