Why breed dogs when there are so many dogs in shelters?
I never imagined I would breed dogs. Not only did I used to be scared of most dogs, I always thought rescuing was the way to go and silently judged people for buying a purebred dog.
Here's a few reasons why I boarded the Pomsky train and have gone full steam ahead with developing this amazing breed. Plus, why I still think you should consider rescuing before buying from a breeder - and why you should NEVER buy from a pet store or puppy dealer.
Rescue dogs are wonderful - most of the time
My first dog was Fox, a 35lb 2-year-old Chow/Xoloitzcuintli mix from a county shelter. After adoption I discovered he was in fact a Chow/German Shepherd supermutt and was likely much younger, since he grew to be a whopping 65lbs. His fur grew back to an insane degree, and I realized he likely had Alopecia X which was cured by neutering. I don't blame the shelter, they were doing the best they could, but the reality is that I ended up with a dog I was not expecting. If I had a weight limit on my lease, or if a family member was allergic to my suddenly furry dog, I would have had to give him up. He has also cost me nearly $15,000 in vet bills and medications to date.
Since my big fluffy boy wasn't exactly a couch cuddler, I set out to find a small fluffy dog to be his companion and my lap warmer. I focused on Pomeranian mixes and must have applied to a dozen dogs before I gave up on trying to adopt from a shelter and looked more closely at mixed breeds. A chance encounter with a Pomsky at Joann Fabrics led me to Bear, a Pomsky rehomed to me via a Facebook group.
After my experiences with these boys, and talking to many other pet parents, I will only say that there is a lot more uncertainty that comes with adopting a dog from a shelter. You may get lucky and rescue the most perfect dog for you, or you may end up with a dog that requires a lot of extra medical expenses or specialist training. It's important to be aware of the possible issues that will arise with an improperly socialized or traumatized dog, and sometimes it takes a lot of experience with dogs to know how to handle those issues. For first-time dog owners especially, I think it's perfectly understandable to want the reassurance of knowing exactly where your new puppy came from.
Adopt vs. Shop
It's not such a black and white issue
There is a place in this world for both rescuing dogs and continuing the legacy of breeding. If you can adopt, please do! If you want a designer or purebred dog, first check breed-specific rescues, then research ethical breeders by asking for referrals or using a directory like Good Dog.
Purebred vs. Well-bred
Irresponsible breeders breed for profit above health
Just because a dog is purebred does not mean it is healthy. Many breeders go for looks over the health and well-being of their dogs, or treat their breeding dogs as caged livestock (puppy mills). Ethical, responsible breeders follow a holistic approach and truly care for their dogs as members of their family, and ensure that all puppies go to good homes.
Pet Store Puppies
Don't buy a dog from a puppy dealer!
Pet stores may claim to work with responsible breeders, but the you have no way to verify that claim if they won't disclose the name and location of the breeder (an exception is when pet stores partner with shelters for adoption events!). Pet stores and puppy listing pages are unnecessary middlemen that irresponsible breeders hide behind like a smokescreen. Any good breeder will want to sell directly to the owner to make sure they will provide a good home, and will guarantee to take the puppy back if needed so they will never end up in a shelter. Puppy mills and bad breeders don't care what happens to the puppy after they are paid.
"Pure" Breeds vs. Designer Breeds
Purebred dogs can be inbred and have genetic issues
Think of the bug-eyed Pugs who can barely breathe, and the German Shepherds with hip dysplasia. These issues were caused by decades of breeding for looks and standards without concern for the overall health and well-being of the dog. Designer Breeds AKA crossbreeds like Pomskies introduce genetic variation and give us the opportunity to build and refine a new breed with great looks AND health.
Support Responsible Breeders
The solution to dog abandonment is better breeders
It's crucial to support reputable dog breeders who are often wrongly blamed for dog overpopulation. Purchasing a dog from a responsible breeder who prioritizes the dog's health and behavior is not harmful to dogs in shelters, especially for those who need a service, therapy dog or breed suited for a specific job or lifestyle. It's essential to do your research and choose an ethical source that fits your needs as a potential dog owner.
I vow to be a transparent and ethical breeder who puts the well-being of my dogs above all else
The Good Fluff's Code of Ethics
As I develop my breeding program, I look to the standards set by Good Dog and the American Pomsky Kennel Club. To clarify and summarize few of the guidelines, these are the important choices I have made:
- All dogs will be raised in my home or guardian homes with no kennels
- Females will only be bred after 18 months, males can be studded after 1 year
- Females will have from 1-6 litters, depending on how well they tolerate the process, and be spayed after
- All breeding dogs will be DNA tested through Embark for inherited disease, and cleared via OFA testing for elbows, hips, and patellas.
- All puppies require a sales contract and spay/neuter agreement.
- Until further notice, I will not sell with breeding rights.
- I will not buy from or work with any breeders who do not follow Good Dog & APKC standards