All Sonyas Think Alike?

Hi, y'all~

If you're a frequent visitor, you may have noticed that the background has changed. The reason for this is because there is another blogger with the exact same name and same background as me (Perhaps all Sonyas think alike?). Naturally, I had to make mine infinitely better, so I did. I did get a suggestion to write the other Sonya a very angry email (How dare you have the same name as me?!), but I gracefully declined in the name of carrying good relations with my namesakes (though it appears she is older than me, and her blog is pretty much entirely in traditional Chinese).

Here's the picture motivation of the day! 

In regards to the pit bulls thing, clearly not all pit bulls are aggressive and dangerous (see above). Their temperament does depend on the environment they were raised and taught in, but keep in mind that pit bulls were bred to be good fighters; therefore, there are certain traits that purebred pit bulls were bred for that makes them better fighters: strength, athleticism, eagerness despite possible injuries, and sometimes aggressiveness. Don't let a few poorly trained/raised ones give a bad name to all pit bulls though! They can be loving and warm companion dogs.

Here's a general tip on mixed breeds versus purebreds. I have mentioned the Hybrid Vigor Theory, or Heterosis, in my past posts. While it is true that I and more educated experts believe and support this theory, it does not guarantee that any and all mixed breeds will be healthier than any and all purebreds. This is simply because mixed breeds may inherit genetic disorders, too. For example, if you have a mixed breed--or more appropriately, a cross breed--from two poorly bred, unhealthy purebreds, it is likely that your cross breed puppy will be unhealthy. Likewise, purebred puppies that are *responsibly bred* may be quite healthy. A good breeder will make sure to breed puppies for good qualities and away from bad ones.

That having been said, the general assumptions that many purebred dogs are irresponsibly bred or inbred

and have health issues like the Golden Retriever I saw at the animal hospital still holds true. Just keep in mind that there is no golden rule for choosing the perfect canine companion; you have to see for yourself the characteristics and temperaments of your future dog instead of deciding solely on breed or aesthetics. Even within a breed--a litter, even--the temperament of the puppies may vary greatly.

~S