I think breeder shaming is a very common thing. I recognize that there are many people making very bad choices that negatively effect both people and dogs when it comes to breeding. I think though, that it is easy to get caught up in the adopt don't shop mantra and some pretty rude behaviors and attitudes that ultimately endanger our breed and every other breed that is established and bred intentionally.
A breed is characterized by specific, determined traits and in an ideal world a breeder is breeding with well managed health histories, current health evaluations and peer evaluations with the intent to improve areas of fault and establish genetic lines that uphold the standard of said breed.
Without breeders specifically and intentionally breeding dogs, we do not get to have dog breeds. That said, there are many bad breeders. Also, there are many sweet and wonderful dogs who are not bred to standard or who are mixed breeds or shelter dogs- these are not bad dogs, although as was highlighted by Judys story, rescue has its own set of challenges and should be taken with the weight that it is and acknowledged that it is not the best choice for everyone.
I believe there is great value in the work of breeders and that the best thing we can do is educate and encourage the best breeding practices possible because we do not get to have golden retrievers or Labradors or Yorkshire terriers or poodles without intentional breeding of intentionally selected dogs. I think it is dangerous territory for any dog lover- particularly those who have fallen in love with a specific breed- to behave in an anti breeder fashion. We need to encourage and strengthen good practices by being knowledgable and sharing knowledge. Attitudes of disdain only perpetuate bad behavior- people don't seek help or education and more bad choices are made, more animals suffer and more people have broken hearts and giant vet bills. The people who would shame you should be gently educated. I am proud to be a Yorkshire terrier owner, I am grateful to have spent life with Lilah since she left her mother and I hope that we will be blessed with Yorkshire terriers for many more years to come. If we do not have breeders to support that then all we will have left are coarse coated, shedding, open fontanelled, liver shunted, yorkiepomchioodles, and I do not want that.
__________________ Alyssa and Lilah    |