Vampy - Im not saying purebreeds are more lovable than mixes - Ive had both and Ive grown attached to the mutts just as much as the purebreds Ive owned.
The reason a person may want a purebreed is perhaps they are fascinated by that particular breed and it's distinct characteristics, personality, and looks.
Some people may want to compete in AKC show and sporting events - an AKC registered dog is required to participate.
Others are just fans of the breed and enjoy having a dog of that breed for a pet.
Take a look at the Labrador Retriever. Its America's most popular breed. Its the classic family dog. Good natured, short coated, easy maintenance, medium to large build, intelligent, gentle, and very trainable.
But Labs can range in price from $50 upwards to around $3,000 depending on the breeding, the training, and other factors.
Ive been in the hunt test circles, a finished dog ( a fully trained field dog ) can cost you around $2,000-$3,000 sometimes more because often those dogs are of top breeding, intact, titled, and fully trained.
I agree I dont understand people who buy these dogs only to never take them into the field again in their lives and they are only maintained as a pet.
If you are looking for a Lab to have just as a pet and will never spend a day in the field your best bet is to go to a Labrador Retriever rescue group and tell them what your'e looking for. Likely they have a young dog in a foster home. You just have to pass a home check and background inspections.
But if you are into field trial competitions and what not - then yeah I would go for the well bred dogs because at that point your dog is more than a pet he becomes your working partner and your companion in the field. You want a solid bred dog with good eyes, good ears, and good hips. You want him to be able to work effeciently.
You just have to asess your own situation and decide what is best for you and your family. Pure-bred or no pure-bred, Im always up for getting a dog out of the shelter - anything but the pink stuff!