The Dog Merchants: Inside the Big Business of Breeders, Pet Stores, and Rescuers

Journalist Kavin (Little Boy Blue) takes on the industry of dog breeding and selling, interviewing puppy mill operators, hobby breeders, shelter operators, dog auctioneers, and others—all of whom swear they prioritize the welfare of the dogs they deal. Kavin portrays some businesses in a negative light, especially those immersed in breeding and showing purebred dogs (Kavin herself owns two mixed breeds). This undermines the stated goal of “mov[ing] the conversation forward so that all dog lovers can understand exactly what we are buying into.” The book will inevitably raise the hackles of breeders who believe they are being depicted unfairly. But those who are breeding and raising dogs responsibly will find validation in their endeavors—and consumers seeking to buy or adopt dogs will benefit from the information Kavin has gathered as they make their decisions. (May)