17/08/2025
My purchase of a well bred dog does not condemn another dog to death.
My purchase of a well bred dog does not result in an uptick in the shelter dogs.
My desire to have a dog with predictable temperament from a healthy line does not result in another dog not getting adopted at the shelter.
My careful research on the most responsible breeders who meet all requirements is not the problem. It’s not what you should be mad at.
It’s not who you should blame.
I am not the one who irresponsibly brought these dogs into this world and left them in a shelter. Responsible breeders aren’t the ones bringing these dogs to animal shelters either. It’s my home, my life and my choice what kind of dog I want to bring in. Maybe I need a working dog, sport dog, show dog or just a companion dog of a certain breed that suits me best.
Whatever reason I choose to support a reputable breeder, it will not send an animal protection dog to death.
A breeder who does health tests, temperament tests and titling of their dogs does not contribute to the number of stray dogs.
The number of stray dogs in the world is a problem, but it’s not a problem made worse by reputable breeders or those who buy from them.
Your neighbor who gets a “purebred” dog without papers because they’re cheap is contributing to the problem.
Your friend who spontaneously bought a puppy from Petland is contributing to the problem.
The person scrambling to pump out the hottest designer mix ASAP is contributing to the problem.
Your relatives who have to get their dog bred once, “so she can experience what it’s like to be a mother” or because “she’s such a good/cute/sweet girl” are contributing to the problem.
Your old school mate who bought a working dog with lots of energy without taking the time to research its needs and character who ultimately sees it doesn’t fit his lifestyle is the problem.
A reputable breeder offers lifetime support. A serious breeder would never allow their dogs to end up in a shelter from the start.
It’s understandable to be angry about the number of homeless dogs in the world, but if you look closer, you’ll find that your anger is misplaced.
Written by Lindsay Hutslar, Veterinary Technician, Ohio, USA.
