Confession time.
My first GSD was pure-bred of German lineage. Wonderful personality, my dog of a lifetime. He had hip dysplasia and died of a heart attack at the age of 10. He took my heart with him.

My second was a Great Pyrenees (pure-bred) from a Pet Shop. I could NOT leave her there in that little cage. She was a huge puppy and this was the early 80's, not even I knew what kind of dog she was. I quickly got info on the breed and in my mind, saved her from the pet shop. Who would have bought such an expensive dog with long long hair that was to grow up to 100-150lbs.? She had leg problems because of her leg conformation, but she lived to the ripe old age of 12 1/2 (life expectancy 8-10 yrs.). Great dog, I loved her dearly.

Third and fourth dogs are kill shelter rescues. Pure-bred. I chose Killian because he was in such terrible shape. I could not let him die. I would get him all the help in the world. Shiloh is very healthy. Both are wonderful dogs.

I have done it all. I don't regret any of it. I've been blessed with the best of all worlds.

If a pure-bred is desired and you want to rescue, go to a breed specific rescue. You can have both.

Sue