Choosing a dog can be quite a decision. There are more than 100 purebreds alone, to say nothing of crossbreeds and mixed breeds. More than one-third of America's families own dogs, so in buying one you are joining a large group. The purebred dog has parents which are of the same breed. About fourteen million, or one-third, of America's dogs are purebred, and most of these registered or eligible for registration with the American Kennel Club, the United Kennel Club or American Field, or other registration organizations.
All dogs are basically friendly, faithful, and protective.
But in buying a purebred you have a reasonable guarantee that the puppy will grow up to resemble his parents and the rest of his breed in temperament as well as looks. Certain breeds also have special abilities and are better adapted to certain purposes. The conscientious breeder has invested money in the parents, their care, and in raising the puppies. That is why they cost more than a cross or mixed breed. If dogs of different breeds are mated, the offspring is a crossbreed and will probably have some characteristics of both breeds and be between the two in size.