20 litters a year? - Page 2

There is no guarantee that a breeder of one litter a year does it right.  You can't judge a breeder by numbers of litters, only by the quality of dog he produces.

well written mindhunt

20 litters a year remains quite rare considering the cost of purchasing, keeping, housing, and maintaining 10 good females, and meeting all SV, USCA, or other requirements.
I do not doubt that those who breed without regard to standards or breed club rules do it though.
Farming is farming, be it dogs, cattle, swine, or any species when the ultimate goal is to produce large numbers without regard to quality or characteristics.
It should also be noted that most AKC breedings are little more than that.
Jonah

Unfortunately this topic has no right or wrong answer, as ethics, morals and opinions vary from one person to another.
It's my opinion that it is impossible even for the most skilled and devoted owner to be to properly care for over 4 dogs at a time(In other words, no more then 4 dogs to one person regardless of the dogs age). Of course, there are many variables to that as well and this is not a situation one can generalize. Dogs are not objects, they need interaction, love and devotion. Anything less is an injustice. I personally cannot see how such a smart breed like the GSD can possibly be enriched and mentally stimulated in a kennel enviorment. I imagine it would be very boring and frustrating. I guess when it comes down to it, it's up to the puppy buyer. You have a choice. You can support a large reputable kennel, where they dogs may or may not have the lifestyle they deserve. Or you can go to the small breeder, get the same dog or better and know your puppy is coming from a loving, devoted home. Whether you are looking at a large or small scale breeder, research must be done thoroughly as there are bad and good in both categories.  Something that sort of made me wonder was the use of the word "proffesional", is it not common knowledge that good ethical breeders do not breed for profit? Why would any reputable breeder claim breeding dogs as their proffession? Would they not be insulted by such a term? Perhaps I'm confused.....