Why will it cost me $125 1 way to bring home a 2 lb. dog in a carrier that I would put under the seat anyway?

Because that is what the price of your dog's ticket is to have it on board with you. It used to be $75 one way!

I wound up paying $200 to have a cat shipped to me in cargo from a breeder.

That's the airlines for ya. Is it less expensive to drive?

Because that is what the airlines have decided to charge for that service.

its a luxury to take your pet on board. You pay the cost of that luxury.

The airline probably has to have some extra insurance to allow pets in-cabin.. you're paying that cost to be allowed to take your pet.

People have allergies, ....dog gets scared....and craps in the carrier, i wouldnt be happy sitting next to ya.... think about it.

because that is cheaper than a seat?
it is a living creature and needs to be in the same space as you
if you don't like that price, drive. get a dog closer to home.

Because it is still another living thing with you on the plane, and not everyone is always happy when someone brings their dog on a plane.