Moral dilemma. Would appreciate some advice

Hi everyone,

I’m having a bit of a moral dilemma and would appreciate some input.

My very first dog was a beagle puppy that my parents bought from a breeder when I was 5. After that, every single dog we owned growing up, and every dog I have had as an adult has been a rescue. I am extremely passionate about rescue. While I fully understand that there are reputable, registered breeders, I’ve also personally felt that I couldn’t justify buying a puppy when there are so many good boys and girls in need of loving homes already. But as time goes on, I am really, REALLY wanting the basset puppy experience.

Don’t get me wrong, I know that “wanting the puppy experience” is what gets hounds surrendered to shelters in the first place, but I am not some casual. I have 30+ years of hound experience and 10+ years of basset-specific experience (wow I’m getting old lol). I am well equipped for basshole behavior and I love them so much. I am prepared for excessive vocalization, stubbornness, getting into everything, peeing on the imported rug out of spite, etc. Many of the rescues I’ve taken in have not been potty trained, so I’m prepared for that too. I own my home on 1/2 acres of fully-fenced property with no HOA. My husband works 100% from home so the dogs are never alone for more than a couple hours.

I said goodbye to my best friend, Buster (pics 1 and 2) in April of last year and I still cry every night when I get home and he’s not there to greet me. My remaining buddy, Banjo (pic 3) is 14 now and really starting to slow down. He’s refusing food more and more, his naps are getting longer, and I’ve had to face the reality that the time might be soon. When he passes, I am seriously considering finding a breeder and purchasing a couple of pups. The timing feels right. I have the space and the money for puppies now, and I feel like it will be hard to be sad when I’m coming home to a couple of terrors who have gotten into who knows what mischief. As you know, purebred basset puppies are basically never available for rescue. But I still can’t help feeling guilty about going through a breeder rather than a rescue.

Has anyone else ever had similar struggles / feelings about buying a puppy? What did you decide?

For those who purchased through a breeder, aside from being registered / insured, what are some other things you look for? What are your “green flags” of ethical breeding?

Thank you for reading! I appreciate any input ❤️