Well I knew we’d strike a nerve or two when we assigned a story designed to set the record straight on the growing popularity of ‘designer breeds’. And yep, the feedback is certainly pouring in as a response to our February feature ‘Oodles of doodles’.
In the course of my tenure at Dogs in Canada, I’ve learned a great deal - but more than anything, I’ve learned this: there is simply no pleasing everyone. While I am usually on the receiving end of criticism proclaiming that the magazine has abandoned its purebred roots, now I find that it is the doodle enthusiasts who have a bone to pick with me.
That’s okay. Actually, I couldn’t be more proud of the article. Those who have actually read the piece will understand that it in no way insults or demeans designer mixed breed dogs, but rather takes issue with the business of breeding designer mixes.
All dogs are wonderful. Whether you’ve got a conformation champion or a shelter mix, you’ve got a loyal companion and naturally you love your dog. Why wouldn’t you? As I clearly stated in my February editor’s message, this is not a case of insulting or blaming the dogs involved in this business.
It may be an uncomfortable one, but it’s a truth nonetheless that buying a designer mix for thousands of dollars is a bitter pill to swallow for those involved in animal rescue - let alone the untold thousands of mixes waiting for permanent homes but passed over in favour of designer mixes. What a terrible shame.
There are many wonderful options for bringing a dog into your life. Purebreds are wonderful and they have their benefits; so there’s the option to research breeds and find a reputable purebred dog breeder. Breed rescue is a great scenario for people who are drawn to a particular breed but want to support a rescue effort. And for those who prefer the mixes, there are so many available for adoption - the choice is immense. And it’s a wonderful, rewarding choice. But paying someone thousands of dollars to buy a designer mixed breed with a silly name? Why?
So folks, fire away. I stand behind the article, and I stand behind everything I have said and will continue to say about the intentional breeding of mixes being an idea that is not just bad - it’s bad for dogs.
