25 Dumb Wastes of Money:

[elephantium]

Originally Posted by nikimcbee

I don't agree on the dog breeder thing.

Me, neither. To be a responsible dog owner, you get your dog from either a) a rescue or b) a respectable breeder*.

The former is dirt cheap, and is a great way to get a pet dog. The latter is quite expensive, and pretty much only makes sense if you're looking for something specific, like a show dog or agility dog.

* In my mind, a "respectable breeder" is a high standard. It includes things like temperament testing, early socialization, vetting potential adopters, and a guarantee/requirement to take the dog back if it doesn't work out with the adopter's family. Very few meet this standard -- backyard breeders and puppy mills need not apply.