One of the strangest things I've ever heard

[chocolatepuppy]

Anyway, my co-worker said this morning that the woman in this rescue group told her that actually mutts make better dogs because they get only *the good genes* from the dogs in their ancestry. They have no faulty genes (i.e., that lead to health problems since only the good genes are passed along).

I've heard that before. My RB Mandy had SAS, a genetic disease common to Newfies and Goldens. Lacey has had ACL surgery done on both back knees, common to certain breeds. So they won't sell me on that story.

a little research...

Subvalvular aortic stenosis, also referred to as subaortic stenosis or SAS, is a common heart defect in dogs, especially Newfoundlands, Golden retrievers, Rottweilers, and German Shepherds.

certain breeds of dogs are more susceptible than others to developing a ruptured cruciate ligament. Most commonly, these breeds include the rottweiler and cocker spaniel. The Labrador retriever, German shepherd, mastiff, golden retriever, miniature and toy poodle, Lhasa apso, and bichon frise are likely to suffer from the problem as well.

[Pam]

a little research...

We did talk about dog breeds and common faults in some particular breeds. The main thing that boggled my mind was her thinking that the bad genes just sort of *went away* when there was a mixed breeding and only the good genes survived. What a great thing that would be for the human race too if it was true! LOL!