Discussions

Is it just me, or does anyone else find it slightly outrageous the amounts of money people are asking for their pets? Puppies or aged dogs, hundreds of dollars? I can understand wanting to make a quick penny or two but even for unregistered or non pure bread..  
Just want others thoughts!

Over my life, I or we, have had five dogs given to us, and out of those dogs one was a registered Chesepeake Bay Reteiver, who was supposed to have an attitude problem, the rest were mutts, and all were great dogs as well.  
When I read the classified and see what people are charging for dogs it shocks me, I guess I'm the kind of person who would never pay for a dog, but would take one to make sure that it was not destroyed, makes me wonder what happens to these dogs that people do ask so much for, if not bought what happens to them.  
Final comment, I'm not a person who tries to rescue dogs, but if I need a dog, there have always been dogs out there for me.

But it takes both sides for things to be the way they are. Its one thing to ask $800 for a pup that is 3 breeds mixed, but if people are paying it, then it won't stop. Its tough though, because pups are always cute, and when kids pick them up and look up at daddy and say "awe can we have one", you are screwed. No safe way out. Either pay up or be the bad guy. Been there. Have paid more for a 4 ounce ball of fluff than I sold a cow for!

I breed small dogs myself however I think I am more than fair in the asking price. I breed once a year only (if my female is up for it) and spend a lot of time and money on raising the resulting pups. They are handled daily, exposed to numerous stimuli, well socialized with other animals and people (including children) and are well started on house training by the time they leave at 9 weeks (in addition to their first round of shots, deworming and full health check by the vet). Not to mention the food bills (I don't use run-of-the-mill Alpo, Purina, etc.). I realize that not every breeder holds up to these standards which is why it is important to not only research your breed of choice but to ask questions of the breeder and see their dogs first-hand. In the end you get what you pay for.  
 
I have adopted a dog from a rescue in the past and wouldn't do so again, this is simply my personal experience. I don't judge those who buy or those who adopt. It's a personal choice. Just make sure you're making the right decision, dogs are not disposable.