All modern breeds were bred with specific jobs or purpose in mind.
Herders love to herd because of genetics.
Beagles will obsessively follow scent because of genetics.
Retrievers will enjoy retrieving because of genetics.
German Shepherds bark at strangers because of genetics.
Malinois loves to bite because of genetics.
Livestock guardian breeds are independent because of genetics.
You may not even know the breed make-up of your dog, but their genetics are still going to have an impact on their behaviour. Their energy levels are genetic, their prey drive is genetic, their intelligence is genetic.
Whether you’re countering prey drive for reliable recall or countering stranger-danger for manners with guests, etc., your dog’s genetics are playing a role.
So if you are adopting a mixed-breed rescue, make sure you either ask all the right questions first to know if their genetic behaviours are a good fit with your lifestyle, or be prepared to accept a wide range of possibilities. Mixed breed dogs are not devoid of genetic-driven behaviours – their breed mixes will show through in differing degrees and will have an impact on your life with them. Be prepared for that.
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