09/13/2025
As a professional dog trainer and the owner of Coach Lou’s K9 Tactics, I see a lot of discussion—and sometimes heated arguments—about whether people should rescue a dog from a shelter or get one from a breeder. The reality is, both choices can be right, and both can lead to incredible family companions when done responsibly.
Here’s what I can tell you from experience: responsible breeders are not the reason shelters are full. Ethical breeders take responsibility for every dog they produce. If a family can’t keep their dog, a good breeder will take that dog back or rehome them directly—making sure they never end up in a shelter.
On the other hand, backyard breeders, accidental litters, and unplanned breedings are a major factor in shelter overpopulation. That’s where the cycle continues, not from the people who stand behind their breeding programs for life.
Health is another piece people overlook. Many shelter dogs can carry illnesses such as parvovirus, distemper, or heartworm, which can sometimes be lifelong or even fatal. Reputable breeders work hard to limit those risks through health testing, genetic screening, and structured breeding practices.
But here’s what I’m most passionate about: training. The #1 reason dogs end up in shelters isn’t health—it’s behavior. Families often get overwhelmed by issues that could have been prevented with the right guidance. That’s where I come in. At Coach Lou’s K9 Tactics, I help owners build structure, set boundaries, and develop clear communication with their dogs. When training is in place, families are less likely to feel frustrated, and dogs are far less likely to be rehomed or surrendered.
At the end of the day, it’s not about breeder vs. rescue—it’s about dogs finding and keeping loving homes. So let’s stop shaming people for their choice. Whether you’ve chosen to adopt or to bring home a responsibly bred pup, you should never be made to feel bad. What matters most is that your dog is loved, cared for, and given the structure and training they need to thrive.
If you’ve recently brought home a dog—no matter where they came from—don’t wait until problems appear. Let’s set you and your pup up for success right from the start. Reach out to me today, and let’s build that unbreakable bond.
—Coach Lou
Coach Lou’s K9 Tactics
Call or Text 860-879-9399