Dog srd: 7 facts you didn’t know
From the cute expressions they make when they want something to the way each one looks at the owner when they’re about to leave home… Every dog is unique in its own way. And with the mutt, everything becomes even more special!
After all, how to replicate the friendly and distinctive appearance, as well as the unpredictable temperament of a mixed-breed dog? For those, like us, who are also passionate about these pets, check out some curiosities about the famous mutts.
- Is every dog without pedigree considered SRD?
Normally, when we think of an SRD dog, we immediately imagine an animal with short or medium fur and of medium size: the classic mutt! But the truth is that the term is much more comprehensive.
Mixed-breed dogs (a combination of two breeds), or even those that look a lot like a certain breed but don’t have certification, can also be classified as SRD.
This is because the pedigree is the only document that proves the lineage of dogs. In other words, without it, it’s not possible to determine the origin of the parents, grandparents, great-grandparents, etc. Therefore, technically, it is also a dog without a defined breed.
- Guessing possible breeds of a mutt is more challenging than it seems
Who has never looked at a mutt puppy and proclaimed that it must be from this or that breed? Although it does not affect the love we feel for these pets, trying to guess which breeds are behind these dogs is a fun pastime. But believe it, you probably got your guesses wrong.
Proof of this was a study conducted by the Darwin’s Dog project, which studies canine DNA. In it, researchers showed photos of 31 mutts to more than ten thousand people, who had to guess the three predominant breeds in the genetic code of each one.
In general, each participant was correct in only 25% of the cases, even among those who had jobs related to the canine world. And no wonder: some dogs in the study showed traits of more than 19 breeds in their DNA! Impressive, isn’t it?
- SRDs are the favorite dogs of Brazilians
Not shih-tzu, not poodle, not French bulldog. According to a quantitative survey conducted by the Qualibest institute in 2017, mixed-breed dogs are the most beloved by Brazilians and are present in 41% of homes with dogs.
Of these, 33% said they had rescued the pet directly from the street. A great proof of love and care! Oh, for those who are curious, the other most popular breeds according to the survey are poodle (11%), pinscher (7%), labrador (5%), pitbull (3%), and lhasa apso (3%), respectively.
- Are mutts more resistant?
Contrary to what many think, there is no evidence that mixed-breed dogs are more resistant than purebred dogs. However, what is known is that, in general, they are less exposed to certain problems typical of some breeds.
We can say, for example, that due to genetic issues, golden retrievers are prone to developing hip dysplasia. Similarly, it is estimated that 40% of German spitz dogs will experience patellar luxation at some point.
- They may have fewer hereditary problems
As for mixed-breed dogs, not that they cannot develop hereditary or congenital conditions, but they are more random. In addition, studies suggest that certain diseases common in purebred dogs are less frequent in mutts, such as atopy and cataracts.
- SRDs can be more adaptable
According to Petz’s veterinarian, Karina Mussolino, it is not something inherent to mixed-breed dogs, as they say out there. But unfortunately, many of the dogs found in shelters have already had to go through quite adverse situations.
Therefore, it is natural that they adapt quickly, especially when things change for the better. After all, how not to get used to all the love and attention, right?
- They are amusingly unpredictable
One of the reasons why many people opt for purebred dogs is to know their temperament in advance. But with mutts, the fun is precisely the opposite! There is no way to know if they will be more curious, lazy, or funny, for example. You will only find out through coexistence, which is very enjoyable!
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