Rescue Pugs

Question
Dear Crystal

I'm researching pugs and pug ownership and am planning to bring a pug into my life within the next year. I'm not sure if I'm going to get my pug from a good breeder or if I'm going to get a rescued/shelter pug, but I have a question which I hope you can answer.

I'd like a rescued pug because they're more affordable, older/less hyper, and hopefully housebroken. I am concerned about health problems with a rescue, since I won't know where they came from (backyard breeder, puppy mill,etc.) I've read that most genetic problems appear within the first 2 years, so if I get a rescued pug that's 2-3 years old without pre-existing conditions, would this be just as good health-wise as paying top dollar from a breeder that intentionally tries to produce genetically sound dogs?  I'd appreciate any feedback you can offer.

Thanks!
Courtney

Answer
I think it is great that you are considering a rescue.  Rescues are great dogs.  You can get an older rescue that is healthy but it won't assure health for the rest of its life.  While there are something's that show up within the first year or two, there are also things that don't show up until much later in life.  Even good reputable breeders can have a pup with problems.  Especially if problems exist in that breed pretty strongly.  My best advice is to talk to a good rescue and do the same with a good breeder.  Compile all of your info and then go from there.