In an ideal world, there would be no dogs in shelters (or on the streets). The only place we would be able to go to is responsible breeders.

The first place that I would always look is rescues, shelters, etc... But I do like the idea of keeping breeds pure. If I can't find a dog that I want (which is very rare!) I would not feel guilty getting him from the breeder.

For instance, when I got Dusty, I was looking for a malmute. I fell in love with him at the pound. He's aussie/husky. Roxy, I was looking for a malmute with totally different looks. I rescued her. Teddy, I searched for a pomeranian for a long time through rescues. I couldn't find one so, I chose to buy him.

Out of all honesty, I feel "mutts" are generally the best dogs. I think that *alot* of pure breds have problems because of all the inbreeding. I've had better luck with all my rescues in life.