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A Matter of Breeding: A Biting History of Pedigree Dogs and How the Quest for Status Has Harmed Man's Best Friend

AUTHOR Brandow, Michael; Brandow, Michael
PUBLISHER Beacon Press (02/03/2015)
PRODUCT TYPE Paperback (Paperback)

Description
A provocative look at the 'cult of pedigree' and an entertaining social history of purebred dogs--"a must-read for all dog lovers" (Booklist).

So-called "purebreds" are the mainstay of the dog industry. Expert Michael Brandow argues these aren't time-honored traditions--but rather commercial inventions of the 19th century that were marketed as status symbols to a growing middle class.

Combining social history and consumer studies with sharp commentary, this reveals the sordid history of the dog industry and shows how our brand-name pets pay the price with devastatingly poor health. It includes chapters devoted to popular breeds such as:

- Golden Retrievers
- Boston Terriers
- English Bulldogs
- Labrador Retrievers

An essential read for animal lovers and animal rights activists everywhere, A Matter of Breeding is a fresh take on the history pedigree dogs and encourages us to love all our furry friends--no matter the coat color or price tag.

"If you're considering welcoming a dog (or two) into your family, read Michael Brandow's fascinating and eye-opening book before visiting a pet store or breeder."
--Betsy Banks Saul, founder of Petfinder.com

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Product Format
Product Details
ISBN-13: 9780807033432
ISBN-10: 080703343X
Binding: Paperback or Softback (Trade Paperback (Us))
Content Language: English
More Product Details
Page Count: 288
Carton Quantity: 24
Product Dimensions: 5.60 x 0.80 x 8.50 inches
Weight: 0.80 pound(s)
Feature Codes: Bibliography, Index, Price on Product
Country of Origin: US
Subject Information
BISAC Categories
Pets | Dogs - Breeds
Pets | Social History
Pets | Essays & Narratives
Dewey Decimal: 636.7
Library of Congress Control Number: 2014022861
Descriptions, Reviews, Etc.
publisher marketing
A provocative look at the 'cult of pedigree' and an entertaining social history of purebred dogs--"a must-read for all dog lovers" (Booklist).

So-called "purebreds" are the mainstay of the dog industry. Expert Michael Brandow argues these aren't time-honored traditions--but rather commercial inventions of the 19th century that were marketed as status symbols to a growing middle class.

Combining social history and consumer studies with sharp commentary, this reveals the sordid history of the dog industry and shows how our brand-name pets pay the price with devastatingly poor health. It includes chapters devoted to popular breeds such as:

- Golden Retrievers
- Boston Terriers
- English Bulldogs
- Labrador Retrievers

An essential read for animal lovers and animal rights activists everywhere, A Matter of Breeding is a fresh take on the history pedigree dogs and encourages us to love all our furry friends--no matter the coat color or price tag.

"If you're considering welcoming a dog (or two) into your family, read Michael Brandow's fascinating and eye-opening book before visiting a pet store or breeder."
--Betsy Banks Saul, founder of Petfinder.com

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List Price $20.00
Your Price  $19.80
Paperback