They way a person buys a pup is really their choice, however anyone who supports puppy mills needs a schooling in ethics. Generally for most family situations the humane society or SPCA is an excellent choice. Lots to choose from and a mutt is usually very trainable and loyal. Monnie's got the right attitude on this one. I bought from breeders when I was into Irish Wolfhounds, but have since opted for giving a home to strays. Strays can make great pets as can rescues, but sometimes the skills to train bad habits are required. I have had two rescued Irish Wolfhounds, one of which I basically stole from an abusive owner. Was told it was aggressive. Went to get it from where the owner lived, talked to it a bit in the front yard, and it jumped right in the cab of the truck and ended up being one of the most loyal pets I have ever had. It realized it was in a secure home and never displayed any aggression to anything. One of the biggest problems is that many people have is that they think just because they are human that they can train a dog. Most cannot train dogs worth crap. As for the peta thing, those psychos are &@$ked.
On an aside here is a neat article on doggie genetics from a place I frequent.
http://discovermagazine.com/2004/jun/dogs-of-rarotonga
On an aside here is a neat article on doggie genetics from a place I frequent.
http://discovermagazine.com/2004/jun/dogs-of-rarotonga