I agree with Joe to some extent. We had an excellently bred English cocker spaniel, and working him was a joy. He was truly the best hunting dog I have ever seen. And his temperament was stellar. On the other hand, there is something to be said for 'hybrid vigor'. It's that unexplainable awesomeness that some mutts have. Many times you can't put your finger on exactly what it is that sets them apart. There's just something about natural selection sometimes that is downright beautiful. I've known stupid, smart, awesome, and worthless dogs of both categories. My current dog is a straight up mutt, and he could match my childhood spaniel any day. He's got the nose of a bloodhound, he's pretty damned smart, and he's got personality that just won't quit. I believe there is validity to both opinions.