It's hard to say. I would pay thousands of dollars if the animal was right for me and I could afford it at the time. While rescues need homes (and I do rescue myself), I also would hate to loose the individual breeds that are out there (of any animal species). I love German Shepherds, and would like to own a purebred one someday. Because of status? no. Because I can? no. Because I love the look, the feel, the personality and the devotion of the breed. Could I not find that in a "rescue"? Sure, and there are purebred rescues out there and if I met the right one I would take it. But with "mixed" breeds it can be alot harder to find what you're looking for. Don't get me wrong, I love Dante ( my mix breed) and when I met him I knew he was perfect matchfor me , but by going to a breed/breeder you have a much greater chance of finding what you are looking for. Example: When we picked up Dante he was supposed to stay small - between 20-30lbs. He's now 45lbs and still growing. Luckily, we've since moved and have more room. But what if he out grew my home and I had to give him up?

Sorry to ramble, but does that make sense?