Quote Originally Posted by Aggie_Ama View Post
I have a particularly sore spot for backyard breeders, puppymillers and anyone who puts a dollar before their animals.
I used to feel that way. Then I joined our local dog training club and met "backyard" breeders of the ilk that belong to dog training clubs. Most of these (all women) breed for the betterment of the breed. One example is my friend Linda, who breeds Italian Greyhounds. I've seen her's jump off of 6' heights and run off happy. I've also seen an IG jump off a 6" table in agility and break its leg! Not one of hers. Linda's whole point is to breed a strong, healthy dog. She has 1-2 litters/year (usually 1) from one of her 4 female dogs (I'm assuming the word would be nixed here, so didn't even try).
Responsible breeders are trying to breed the dogs to be the best they can be. There are exceptions, there are breeds where the "standard" is a measure of pretty which isn't healthy. But, many, like IGs and many of the terrier's, part of the breed standard is strength and health.
Disclaimer - I am owned by two mutts that I rescued, one from the Humane Society and one from a local rescue group. I've become interested in reputable breeders because I'm tired, both of my guys have had serious socialization issues - I work with them constantly, putting in hours every day. I also love them both with every fiber of my being.
My next dog will be a purebred Border Terrier or Shiba Inu from a reputable breeder and I'm going to make sure it's socialized and participate in performance sports (agility with the terrier and tracking with the Shiba as well as other potential "sports"). But, I just want a dog that isn't going to bite, or growl or, or pee out of fear when someone comes near.

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