I have debated about whether or not to join in here since it has turned into such a hot topic. My childhood dog was a beloved mutt. We had absolutely no clue about his background or what breeds might be in his family tree but he was a sweetie. As an adult, I worked with a girl who had a poodle. She shared with me a lot of their attributes and frankly I really liked what I was hearing. Not surprisingly I got my first pedigree poodle in 1970. I now have my fifth poodle and, although I really do admire all kinds of dogs, I have a very strong love for this breed. If bred responsibly, as with any other breed, they are very intelligent, loving, family dogs and an added bonus is they don't shed. Don't get me wrong, I am not a neat freak (I have two cats who shed plenty) but for some people a non-shedding dog is a must. I really don't think the breeders are the problem here. Too many people are not spaying and neutering their pets and often think it's "cute" for their children to observe their female dog having a litter. Until everyone spays and neuters, the shelters will be full unfortunately. That's just a fact. I guess the bottom line is freedom. Everyone has the freedom to choose the dog they want and hopefully will not be judged for the choices they make.