Originally posted by Shelteez2

For the price issue, well ethical breeders spend a lot of money on genetic tests, as well as on showing their dogs to make sure they are the best examples of the breed, as well as on vet bills for the pups, getting the pups tatooed or microchipped, registering the pups etc. Good breeders just don't make money in the long run. Would I pay $1000 for a dog? It depends. My next dog will be a whippet, and yes it will be from a breeder. I want to show my dog in conformation, trial it in obedience, and maybe give lure coursing a go. I want as sound of a dog as I can get so that I can actively participate in these activities.
I completely agree. The breeder I'm going to gets the entire litter's hearing checked, and the mother's. All that adds up to quite alot. I believe she said it only costs 66 dollars a head, but that's cheap compared to the over 100 it usually is.

I'm going to be showing my dogs too, but only my GSD will be in conformation. It's virtually impossible to find a good confo. pup in a shelter. It's even hard when going to a reputable breeder. I saw a GSD in the shelter with hip dysplasia and I felt like crying. I don't agree with breeding for the standard ALL the time. Generally yes, but breeding for working ability is good too.