Misfortune is something that befalls others. At least in our own selfish way, we like to think so. However we know from experience that we do suffer misfortune, and sadly even tragedy, at times during our lives. For those in dogs one of the worst things is literally losing a dog! And I know now…
I have a bitch here who is clear by parentage of HC. I was recently told she still needs a CERF test. Can you tell me why? I thought if she doesnt have cataracts then her eyes are fine. Thanks Answer: Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF) is dedicated to the elimination of heritable eye disease…
The only really effective way to attack the problem of genetic disease is to actively select against the defective genes, rather than trying to select for the most normal dogs you can find. Its a way a thinking about breeding that seems counter-intuitive, until you realize that if you know who the affected and …
Frequently breeders and judges are asked by various publications to write about their favourite Staffords, of course with the show ring in mind. Funnily enough when I go on a nostalgia spree, especially at Christmas with a few hot punches inside me, it is not the show winning Staffords, which bring tears to my eyes,…
Do you discourage or encourage fellow competitors? Do you tell them their goals are too lofty and their dreams too big? Are you trying to be helpful or trying to keep them from accomplishing something that you never had the ability or perseverance to do yourself? It is equally as harmful to steal joy by…
I guess the first symptoms weren’t that easy to recognize, loss of hair! Yes, we did notice we were constantly cleaning the kitchen floor because there seemed to be plenty of loose hair around but having six other dogs at the time you simply assume they are all moulting rather only one of them
I have a seven month old male that has gone through puppy socialization, obedience and listens and responds to all the basic commands when he is in class and in our house or backyard beautifully. I am having trouble with the basic walk at times. There are so many distractions that it is very difficult…
A traditional pedigree shows the parentage of a purebred dog back through three or more generations. If you take a traditional pedigree and begin filling in the rest of the close relatives (siblings, half-sibs, offspring, multiple matings, etc.), youve got the beginnings of a genetic pedigree ( lets call it a genped for short )….
As with the stock shows, the intent was to showcase fine breeding stock. But over the years the emphasis has changed from providing a showcase to a major criterion for determination of breeding quality. The old adage breed the best to the best has subtly changed in meaning toward breeding the best-looking to the best-looking….