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Book Synopsis
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

A Matter of Breeding A Biting History of Pedigree

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    A Paperback / softback by Michael Brandow

    10 in stock

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      Publisher: Beacon Press
      Publication Date: 03/02/2015
      ISBN13: 9780807033432, 978-0807033432
      ISBN10: 080703343X
      Also in:
      Dogs as pets

      Description

      Book Synopsis
      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

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