Purebred or Mixed Breed? If you are thinking about adding a new member to you family, deciding between a purebred versus a mixed breed is a bit complex. But, there are a few easy ways to determine the best DOG for your household. The basenji, an African wolf dog, is the only breed of dog that cannot bark. Instead of barking, it makes an odd yodel-like noise. Due to this fact, the basenji is also sometimes known as an African barkless dog. Let us start off with your budget. While purebreds are beautiful, they can be high maintenance. From the cost of their breeding, specific health conditions and grooming requirements, certain breeds may downright expensive. For instance, an Afghan is more expensive to maintain than a mixed breed. Beagles are known to be extremely social and cheerful dogs. They are expected to be so friendly that, even in dog shows, the judges expect them to be happy. They have points removed in the judging if they look to be unhappy. Are you looking for a DOG to love or a show DOG? Real DOG lovers do not care about the breed of a DOG. However, amongst the wealthy and status seekers, purebreds are the only option. These DOGS are bred to preserve, exhibit and define the physical and behavioral traits of their breed. As a result, these DOGS should be predictable enough to predetermine their potential size, temperament as well as life expectancy. Bulldogs have unusually large heads. In fact, due to the way in which they've been bred, bulldogs have trouble delivering young. All bulldog puppies are delivered by caeserean section now. The mothers can't deliver the heads naturally. As predictable as purebreds may seem, there are a few considerations. Not all beaucerons are bred the same way. Closely inbred litters may trigger socialization issues, behavioral deficiencies as well as a host of other health conditions. Consult a veterinarian, kennel club, an animal shelter or a highly reputed DOG breeder to learn how to identify the more common medical problems of varying breeds. The name Pug is believed to have derived from this dog's resemblance to the pug monkey. That also fits the breed in other ways. Pugs tend to be curious and mischievous. They always seem to have a look of mischief and fun on their face, just like a monkey. On the contrary, mixed breeds are generally less expensive to buy. Overall, the �mutt� is intelligent, lovable and easy to care for because they are more resilient to illness. Although the temperament of a mixed breed is mild mannered, they can be a little unpredictable too � particularly if you are unsure of their crossbreeding. The largest breed of dog that is recognized by the American Kennel Club is the Irish Wolfhound, which stands thirty to 30 to 35 inches at the top of the shoulders and weighs 105 to 125 pounds.