When I go to the dog park, I am greeted with a handful of dogs; some big and some small. My Pembroke Welsh Corgi, Winnie, serves as an obvious example of breeding success, with her tiny legs and cute face beaming in the outdoors. Despite being a purebred, she has no genetic issues, back problems, or risk of a shortened lifespan. In fact, she is an extremely healthy 7-year-old, and is often mistaken for a puppy.

After going to the dog park many times, I have discovered that many owners ask the same question: “Where did you get her?”

This may seem like no big deal, but I dread this question more than anything in the world. Negative responses to Winnie’s origin are common. People often assume that I bought her due to an unresolved superiority complex or a desire to have a trophy pet.

Picking a dog out in an animal shelter is a noble cause, and I definitely encourage people to adopt. It’s just not the right choice for everyone.

Some people need to know what they can afford, and buying purebred lets prospective owners know “what to expect in regards to size behavior, and health,” according to PetMD.

I did not buy Winnie because I thought her blood was better or because I’m a snob. From the first picture I saw of her, I knew that this dog was the perfect companion for me and all I ever wanted was to provide a safe, loving home for her.

The idea that adoption is the only considerate way to get a dog is simply preposterous.

My mom always says that Winnie was technically rescued, and I agree. The place where she lived before was a filthy dump. She had never taken a bath or gotten a haircut, and had to face harsh winters outside in a run down dog house.

In this case, I would say that buying Winnie was just as sincere a cause as adopting her would be, but yet, many dog owners still give me dirty looks when I say she’s a purebred.

My experience with dog-induced criticism has made me realize that just like people shame human bodies, they shame dogs, too.

Obviously, purebreds are not the only ones feeling judged. Mixed breeds are far more common in American households, but are not recognized by breeding associations, leading some people to believe that they have less worth.

In no way, shape or form are any dogs worth less than others. Even if they were born with apparent genetic defects due to their breeding, it’s not like that makes them any less lovable.

Dogs of all shapes, sizes and breeds are capable of being a great friend and emotional sidekick when you need them.

Pitbulls, notoriously known for illegal fighting, can actually be some of the nicest dogs around when treated with kindness and compassion.

According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, “When a dog is treated well, properly trained and thoroughly socialized during puppyhood and matched with the right kind of owner and household, he’s likely to develop into a well-behaved companion and cherished member of the family.”

Whether a dog is an absolute purebred, mixed breed, or anywhere in between, they are still animals that deserve love and affection.

Every animal has talent in some way, and we, as owners, should celebrate what they can do instead of worrying what they look like.

Even if you don’t consider yourself a dog person, you must admit that these animals are loved by many people around the world and probably make a special person in your life very happy.

So to the people at the dog park who give me lots of grief, I hope you realize that I don’t feel bad for buying my dog. I don’t feel bad for driving all day to take home my best friend, even if I didn’t adopt her from a shelter, because let’s face it: all dogs are lovely just the way they are.