Answers?

There are ways that some show dog breeders use to stifle the tendency to hoard. (Without giving up showing dogs).

The best way is to have a good relationship with a spouse who is firm, sane, and not suckered in by the same things that lure you off the right path.

Actually, the best way is to stay the Fig away from cults.

But here are some ways that I have heard - hear ye and be yea wise, or wallow in troubles like the unlearned swine!

1. Decide on a number of dogs that you can easily care for, in a presentable manner, at all times, without them running your life.

Write this number BIG on a full sheet of paper, and put the paper somewhere that you will always see it. On your refrigerator, on the wall by your mirror, as your desktop background, or write it in Calligraphy with colors that match your furniture, frame it, and hang it on the wall.

Tell everyone what the number if for - it is your own self imposed limit law, the maximum number of dogs and cats that you can have at one time. Puppies over 3 months old count - plan accordingly!

Reduce to this number of dogs, or never have more than this number. Stand firm.

Long before you feel the pull to have more than this number of pets, condition your spouse to NOT become an enabler. Tell your family about your number, about how this is the most dogs you should have.

Tell your spouse that they must stay strong and not let you get more than this number of dogs.

When you reach that number of dogs, then for each puppy you keep, each show dog you buy, then one of your dogs has to be found a new home BEFORE you get the new dog. But, but, but what if I find the perfect dog, and I have to buy him now or I will miss my chance?

Plan for the fact that this will happen. If your limit is 5 dogs, than only have 4, that way you always have an option open.

If your limit is 10 dogs, only have 9, if your limit is 60 dogs - get professional help.