I don't like the term "backyard Breeder" anymore than I like "teacup yorkie". I think they are terms that carry bad connotations to them because we have heard so many people complain about both. I think it is totally unfair to "generalize" about breeders in any way. I believe they all need to be judged individually. Just because someone doesn't show their dogs doesn't make them a bad breeder.
I wouldn't even lump brokers with puppymillers because there are some really decent, caring and knowledgeable brokers. Sometimes the breeders just don't have the time to sell the puppies and they let someone else do the marketing so they can take care of the dogs. The brokers I know have very high standards for their breeders and they have a 2 strikes policy and they won't represent a particular breeder any longer if they do anything disreputable or a puppy has a health issue that can be traced back to the breeder. They are very strict and aren't always a bad thing. |