[kathylynch]

Originally Posted by Ladymom

If you watched Oprah's show on puppymills, one of the staggering statistics mentioned was the fact that close to 50% of the dogs who end up in shelters or rescue are purebred. The reason that you don't see them when you visit shelters is that most contact the appropriate breed rescue when one is turned in.

You are absolutely right that breeding off-standard is a consequence ia a breed's popularity. It goes hand in hand with all the health problems that result from irresponsible breeding. Yorkies are the #1 most popular breed according to the AKC. They are the #1 best selling pet shop puppy. They are also 36 times more likely to have a liver shunt that all other breeds combined according to the recent UT study and are ranked #4 by the OFA in cases of luxating patellas.

Great post!!