Have you ever considered adopting an indie dog, also known as a mixed breed or mutt? These unique canines often get overlooked in favour of purebreds, but they possess a special charm and personality that sets them apart. Let’s explore how indie dogs differ from breeds in terms of behaviour and personality.
1. Temperament:
- Diverse and unpredictable: Indie dogs, being a mix of various breeds, inherit traits from all their ancestors. This can result in a wide range of temperaments, from calm and gentle to energetic and playful. Most of them have had a rough early years, might have been on the streets, or living in shelters, abused/ kicked etc by people [could be gender specific or all] and therefore they carry a lot of that trauma around even after growing up. So, if you see an Indie react to a person in active wear, or to children or to men in particular, it could be for these reasons. Almost similar to us humans, except we don’t go all aggressive and wild, we just walk away and don’t want to be around a person.
- Adaptability: Their mixed heritage often makes them more adaptable to different environments and situations. They are less likely to exhibit breed-specific behavioural issues. That said, they are very very very different from breeds like lab, or retrievers or chow chow etc. Most of these breeds are quite calm and chill when compared to Indies. This again goes back to what i’ve listed in the earlier point. 99% of breed dogs have been bred specifically and taken care of by breeders before they move to a different home unlike Indie dogs.
2. Intelligence:
- Smart and resourceful: Indie dogs are often highly intelligent and resourceful, thanks to their diverse genetic makeup. They can quickly learn new tricks and commands. They understand so much, and it is amazing how they sense your moods/emotions and behave accordingly.
- Problem-solving skills: Their ability to adapt to various situations also contributes to their problem-solving skills. They may be more creative in finding solutions to challenges.
3. Health:
- Generally healthier: Mixed breeds are often less prone to genetic health issues that afflict purebred dogs. Their diverse gene pool can help dilute harmful mutations.
- Longevity: In many cases, indie dogs have a longer lifespan than purebreds due to their overall health and resilience.
4. Personality:
- Unique and individual: Each indie dog has a distinct personality, shaped by their upbringing, experiences, and genetic makeup. No two mutts are exactly alike. Again, this is very similar to us humans- each of us has a set of personality traits unique to us, and some of us are sweet caring gentle, while others are stern or stiff and come across harsh. Get to know them before you judge them!
- Loyalty and affection: Indie dogs are often known for their loyalty and affectionate nature. They can form strong bonds with their human companions. They are very possessive and protective of their people, and will do whatever it takes to ensure their parents/family is protected. This includes the friends, extended family maid, service people, delivery people and just about anyone who doesnt belong to their immediate circle.
5. Physical Appearance:
- Varied and unpredictable: Indie dogs can come in all shapes, sizes, and colours. Their physical appearance is a reflection of their diverse ancestry.
- Often hypoallergenic: Many indie dogs are naturally hypoallergenic, making them a great choice for people with allergies.
In conclusion, indie dogs offer a unique blend of temperament, intelligence, health, and personality. If you’re considering adding a furry friend to your family, don’t overlook the charm and benefits of adopting a mixed breed. You might just discover the perfect companion for your lifestyle.
