Conformation (refering to the externally visible details of a dog's structure and appearance) is a common term that comes to mind when speaking of a purebred dog breed, but what about a mixed breed dog?

If I were looking for a relatively healthy mixed breed dog at my local shelter, are there certain conformational traits that I should look for? Are there certain traits I should avoid?

What physical traits would I need to consider when adopting a mixed breed dog?

Keep in mind such traits as topline, dentition, hocks, forequarters...

This is hypothetical. I am not looking to adopt a dog. (I know a few of you will simply overlook that statement).