Where can I get a pug in the Atlanta area without spending so much?

Pugs are expensive because they are expensive to breed and almost always have to be delivered by C-section. That's why they cost so much. C-section surgery costs about $2000 if there are no complications. The average pug has a litter of 5 -- so the C-section alone comes out to $400 per puppy assuming all 5 puppies are alive, healthy and can be sold. Then you add on the other basic costs including food, housing, stud fees, vaccinations, health checks, etc. which add another $400-500 onto the cost of each puppy and you see why the puppies are not cheap. Most pug breeders do not make a lot of money - they pretty much break even on each litter and often lose money if any puppies are stillborn or have health issues and cannot be sold

Also pugs have lots of health issues which is why you only buy from reputable breeders listed on the ACK or the Pug Dog Club of America website http://www.pugdogclubofamerica.com/

Buying a cheap pug means buying a dog who will cost you thousands of dollars a year in vet bills and the dog will rarely live past the age of 5 or 6 whereas a responsibly bred pug can live up to age 15

There is a Pug Rescue in Atlanta https://www.facebook.com/puglantadogrescue/ as well as a Mid-Atlantic Pug Rescue http://www.midatlanticpugrescue.org/ -- get in touch with both and let them know your wishes so they can keep you updated as they get new pugs in. Also volunteer to be a foster home -that will show them your commitment and how good a home you can provide

Pugs are notoriously difficult to breed and have a tough time whelping - often requiring c-sections. Small litters, too. Of course a breeder isn't going to sell for "cheap". "Cheap" is going to get you a dog full of health issues, particularly in this breed. Saving $$ by skimping on the initial cost, you'll only LOSE that $$ later in vet bills. NOT a cheap dog to own, medically.

If you want cheap, try a shelter.

breeders of purebred dogs work very hard 24-7 to have good pups. Why shouldn't they get paid for their work?

petfinder.com and adopt thru a shelter or rescue.