here we have tons of pit bulls, and hound mixes also after the movie Marley and me so many people went out and got labs that they ended up in shelters after the "puppy" newness wore off. my hound mix i found while horse back riding she was in a box her litter mates had got out and had been hit by cars she was to small thank God. My bloodhound you dont see as pets that often but i did purchase her from a very good breeder i had wanted to work with her on search and rescue but my father has cancer and that is taking a bit of my time. Sorry this reply is so long. But i agree check out the rescues and the shelters first you can find some really great dogs there. Dont leave out the breed rescues also if you have a breed you really like.