National Mutt Day!

Today marks National Mutt Day, which has been celebrated on both July 31 and December 2 since 2005. The bi-annual event was established by pet expert Colleen Paige with the intent of spotlighting mixed-breed pups, who have a lower adoption rate than their purebred counterparts. According to the National Mutt day website, “approximately 80% of dogs in shelters are mixed breeds.” 

Now while we love all dogs here at The Gentle Pit, there is something undeniably charming about mutts. And we are not the only ones who think so. Quite a few celebrities, like Chris Evans, Amanda Seyfried, and Kaley Cuoco all own mix-breed rescues. Also, some of the most beloved pups in Hollywood -- including the likes of Spike who starred in Old Yeller and Higgins of Benji fame -- were mutts.

There are many benefits to owning a mutt. For one, they are “generally healthier than purebred dogs and tend to live longer too due to a stronger genetic diversity,” as reported by Breeding Business. 

Mixed breed dogs also are more affordable than purebreds. Typically, you will only have to pay a relatively small adoption fee, which usually ranges from $50 to $150. 

Your pooch will also be one-of-a-kind, which may end up being a source of many conversation starters. (I know this from personal experience. People have stopped me in the street to ask what breed my mystery mutt is. I have no idea but she looks like a cross between a Maltese and a muppet).

There are quite a few ways to celebrate this amazing holiday. If you have a mutt be sure to spoil them even more than you already do. In addition, you can share posts about how amazing mixed-breed dogs are, along with the hashtag #NationalMuttDay on social media. Those who are able to do so, consider donating your time and money to your local shelter or rescue. You can also forever change a mixed-breed dog’s life by deciding to either foster or adopt them. 

image courtesy of @karnoldpalmer