Originally Posted by bckrazy
ACA is not legitimate, imho... I believe they're one of the "registries" that accepts trendy mixes (like Shorkies) as "breeds". And they don't require pedigrees, which is a HUGE no-no.
My advice would be to call up your local Pug Breed Group and ask for phone numbers/email addresses of all of the recommended, reputable Pug breeders in NY. You'll probably be able to find a good breeder that screens their breeding dogs (I think the most important issues in Pugs are breathing problems, eyes, and elbow/hip dysplasia), and that either has a litter available soon or an adult Pug available. Maybe a good breeder could talk to your brother and let him visit their dogs so your brother can really get a feel for how much effort and time good breeders put into their dogs. Have you reminded him that they will have this dog for up to 15+ years from now, so it's a really bad idea to rush such a huge commitment?
Is money a big issue for them? A well-bred Pug will cost a lot, because of all the health tests needed for the parents and a high rate of C-sections. Then again, you need to remind them that a badly-bred BYB Pug will cost MUCH more in the long run, and their health issues will start piling up as they age.