I also think it is rude to ask someone how much they paid for their pet!
It is a rude question to ask how much you paid for your new handbag. I can see if you are having a serious discussion with some one that is really looking to buy a dog but an off hand demand for a price is just rude.
...And animals planet!!! I blame them for much of the rage for small dogs. My grand daughters like to watch that channel when they are here. It makes my stomach turn when the pets 101 show comes on and they start saying how great small dogs are for people who live in apartments and live busy lives! Just stick the dog in a kennel all day and no problem! They don't need much exercise you know!!
These so called "experts", whoever they are, seem to be totally ignorant of the facts about responsible pet ownership.