Not all cute and cuddly in land of 'designer dogs,' Humane Society says
Hybrids of purebreds are at risk of being exploited as are their owners

By Melissa Patterson Chicago Tribune reporter
July 23, 2008

The puggles, maltepoos and labradoodles scampering along Chicago streets are bred to be cute and customizable, pet industry experts say.

But these high-priced "designer dogs" are also increasingly exploited by abusive breeders at puppy mills and unscrupulous sellers, leading to more sick puppies and unhappy owners, according to the Humane Society of the United States.

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