xvi, 304 pages ; 24 cm

"Reveals the complex network behind the $11 billion-a-year business of selling dogs; discusses how all dogs are treated, from puppy mills to high-kill shelters; and shows how all dog lovers can come together, with one voice as consumers, on behalf of canines everywhere, "--NoveList

The first book to explain the complex and often surprisingly similar business practices that extend from the American Kennel Club to local shelters, from Westminster champions to dog auctions. Without judging dog lovers of any stripe, journalist Kim Kavin makes it clear that money spent among these dog merchants has real-world effects on people and canines. She reveals how dog merchants create markets for dogs, often in defiance of the usual rules of supply and demand. She takes an investigative approach and meets breeders and rescuers at all levels, shedding much-needed light on an $11-billion-a-year industry that most people don't even realize is an industry. Kavin's goal is to advance the conversation about how all dogs are treated, from puppy mills to high-kill shelters. She shows that a great deal can be improved by understanding the business practices behind selling dogs of all kinds. Instead of pitting rescue and purebred people against each other, this groundbreaking book shows how all dog lovers can come together, with one voice. on behalf of our beloved companions.--

Includes bibliographical references (pages 273-296) and index

Setting the base price -- Luxury packaging -- Branding, by breeding -- Freelance producers -- Big production companies -- The mega-distributor -- Marketing the message -- Industry waste -- The upstart competitor -- Repackaging and rebranding -- Lemons versus steals -- The genesis and the future -- Smart shopping -- Consumer intelligence -- A note about spay/neuter

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