Lady Gaga's abducted bulldogs returned

Lady Gaga's two stolen French bulldogs, snatched in a violent abduction that left the pets' caretaker shot in the chest last week in Hollywood, were turned over to police and have been reunited with the pop singer's representatives, police said. The dog walker is expected to recover. The woman who turned in the pets did not appear to be involved in the dognapping, but it was unclear if she would collect a $500,000 reward offered by Lady Gaga. French bulldogs are the fourth most popular breed and can sell for up to $10,000 each.

Class discussion: French bulldogs are so expensive because they generally require artificial insemination and C-sections to reproduce. Has breeding dogs for appearance resulted in health problems for some breeds? Is having a “cute” dog worth it if the animal has trouble breathing, walking or breeding? Is a pet’s appearance or temperament more important to you? Would you spend thousands of dollars for a pure-bred pet? Would you rather adopt a companion animal from a shelter or rescue group? Why or why not?