All our dogs were free. Pound/picked up near death by the side of the road etc. ALL our dogs were smarter. nicer, healthier and easier to deal with than my siblings many pedigreed pets and they lived longer, too.
I don't argue, someone has to buy the overpriced pedigreed beasts that are currently bred. I can see if for a working dog, with a purpose, but a family pet? Gimme a break. I just quietly say nothing when my sibs report hip dysplasia cancer treatment , on and on and on.
Of course, we all value different things, my kid seemed to value pets in need. LOL the most regal one we literally scooped up off the road I was fairly sure it was gonna die before day two but it turned into the type of Shepherd mix that would have made the best police dog, smart that beastie is.
Anna