[strandinthewind]

I showed both of my dogs and they are champions.

I bought them from a reputable breeder for the following reasons:

1. She can trace the family trees back to like 1990.

2. She breeds for quality and health - not appearance.

3. Dogs from puppy mills are very prone to illness and defects because they are bred to anything without care or regard to heath and quality.

As for the AKC, it is important, but it in no way assures the dogs are bred for quality or health.

I think all dogs should be fixed if they are not to breed and I think it is important to consider the pound dogs first. Having said that, many dogs from rescues and pounds have problems (physical and emotional) -- so they are not for everyone, etc.

Finally, my Scotties new puppies will likely go for $2,000 a puppy.