The Dubuque Regional Humane Society (DRHS) made the transition to be a breed free facility with the goal being to help people find a dog whose personality fits the adopter's lifestyle rather than depending on breed stereotypes.  The majority of dogs entering the DRHS are mixed breed dogs. Visual breed identification is most often wrong, even when performed by experts. One study found that 90% of dog breed guesses by adoption agencies did not match the predominant breed identification through DNA analysis. 

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Is guessing the breed a bad thing?

Breed stereotypes are more problematic in a shelter as the community trusts what we label the animals' predominant breed. People tend to make assumptions about the dogs' personalities and future behavior based on these guesses.

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How do I find the right dog?

The DRHS aims to help people find a dog whose personality fits your lifestyle rather than breed stereotypes. Ask our shelter crew to help you find the perfect dog!