Im reading a few books on rabbitry because we are going to be raising meat rabbits. Here is an excerpt from one of them:
"After having a litter, the question arises of what to do with the offspring. Hopefully you have planned this out before even doing the mating. A responsible bunny breeder would. Not every rabbit produced is show or breeding quality. Its tempting with the rare types to sell all kits as breeding stock. After all; if they are rare, every rabbit is breeding stock, right? NO!!! Only about 10% of the offspring you produce will be as good as, or better than their parents. This should be the goal of any good breeding program, no matter how rare the type of rabbit. "
This should and could also be said about bulldog breeders. I fear rabbit breeders may have more grit than many bulldog breeders.
Friday, September 21, 2012
Thursday, September 13, 2012
Rise to success
Want to have a better dog kennel? Want to have a better program all around? This thought applies to many areas of our lives. A thought is born. A dream, a plan, a goal, an idea. We then set the course to achieve this dream and we work hard to make it grow. And grow it does! But eventually, we reach a plateau. A place where we are still "doing ok" but in this place we are not growing.There is rest here. No pressure. Easy sailing.
If we stay on the plateau too long, we begin to "stagnate". After stagnation, we decay, and then DEATH. Such happens to everything in life, including the human body. If we are not growing, expanding, adding to, we are on the decline to death!
As we decline, we gain momentum, and what took us 10 years to build, takes 1 year to die.
If we stay on the plateau too long, we begin to "stagnate". After stagnation, we decay, and then DEATH. Such happens to everything in life, including the human body. If we are not growing, expanding, adding to, we are on the decline to death!
As we decline, we gain momentum, and what took us 10 years to build, takes 1 year to die.
Monday, September 10, 2012
My vision for my program
I have a professional kennel of 10 adult dogs. I always have a few young prospects I am observing. Every breeding done in my kennel is done because i believe it will get me closer to my perfect bulldogge. Every adult dog in my kennel has had a prebreeding vet inspection done, hips xrayed, and temperament tested. Every breeding dog I own competes and earns titles in one or more of the following: Obedience, weight pull, personal protection, and real dog trial.
I do not breed dogs for money. Money is not an issue for my program. It never has been & never will be! I breed dogs to create the perfect bulldogge. A dog that is so amazing, so incredible, that other bulldogges do not compare.
Every day I spend time with my dogs and we enjoy each others' company. I have a close spiritual connection with my dogs.
I go to dog shows & events when I can. I do not pressure myself to go to any. I go when I want to. But when I go, I compete! I show up and show hard. I dont just chase a dream, I make people talk!
My bulldogges provide for me a release, a hobby, and an opportunity to make the world a better place by providing families with the worlds most incredible bulldogge.
I do not breed dogs for money. Money is not an issue for my program. It never has been & never will be! I breed dogs to create the perfect bulldogge. A dog that is so amazing, so incredible, that other bulldogges do not compare.
Every day I spend time with my dogs and we enjoy each others' company. I have a close spiritual connection with my dogs.
I go to dog shows & events when I can. I do not pressure myself to go to any. I go when I want to. But when I go, I compete! I show up and show hard. I dont just chase a dream, I make people talk!
My bulldogges provide for me a release, a hobby, and an opportunity to make the world a better place by providing families with the worlds most incredible bulldogge.
Tuesday, September 4, 2012
Success comes only with a vision.
Where there is no vison, there is no success!
Many people say they have a vision about their perfect dog and what they are trying to create. But when asked, they can hardly explain it. Here is what I do to keep my vision fresh in my mind and hot on the table:
1. See it
I read my vision several times a week and I look at dogs that posess the correct structure and type I am after. over and over and over.
2. Write it
Many people say they have a vision about their perfect dog and what they are trying to create. But when asked, they can hardly explain it. Here is what I do to keep my vision fresh in my mind and hot on the table:
1. See it
I read my vision several times a week and I look at dogs that posess the correct structure and type I am after. over and over and over.
2. Write it
My vision is written out, and on my website. But a few times a month I will put pen to paper and actually write it out. This keeps me pushing toward my goal.
3. Say it
I will read my vision outloud so I am actually hearing it and repeating it.
You may think I am weird, but my vision of my ideal bulldogge consumes me. Therefore i do these things and they keep me pushing toward the goal that matters most. I hope it helps you as it has helped me!
3. Say it
I will read my vision outloud so I am actually hearing it and repeating it.
You may think I am weird, but my vision of my ideal bulldogge consumes me. Therefore i do these things and they keep me pushing toward the goal that matters most. I hope it helps you as it has helped me!
Hot weather breeding by Brian Miller
Hot weather takes its toll on animals, but especially the male breeding dog.
Male dog fertility peaks around 5 years of age as does the female, but can breed
and settle females long after 5 years if managed for fertility.
Season of the year:
Research tells us the season of the year does have an effect on concentration of sperm per ejaculate. Increase concentration occurs in Spring/Early Summer and lower concentration in Late Summer/Fall (Tahs 1981). Sperm concentration is thought to be influenced by photoperiod (day length) and the environmental temperature. One or both can be controlled. Though the concentration of sperm fluctuates, the normal dog is still fertile and can settle females any time of the year if managed well.
Temperature control:
The testicle is outside the body in the scrotum to keep it cooler than body temp. The breeding male is often housed outside and semen quality he is producing is sensitive to hot weather. When outside temp approaches 102°F – normal body temp – male fertility can suffer. Over 105°F and males can be subfertile or infertile if overheating happens. The issue with the testicle is the stored sperm in the epididymis – if it gets too hot the stored sperm dies and the replacement can take 60 days. Temperature is worth managing!
Water misters over the kennel with shade have long been used and can lower the environmental temp by 10°F. Simple solutions such as mister hoses, or in warm areas of the south more permanent nozzle misters, are sufficient. Timers can be set for the hottest part of day, 5 min every 30 min if temp is under 102°F and twice that high when over 102°F. Or just turn on during the 4-6 hours of afternoon sun at a low level. The shade can be permanent metal roofing or shade netting. Feedlot netting lasts for years and is effective. Just be sure to keep netting out of reach. If you have an air-conditioned kennel, keep males inside and don’t allow outside access during the hot of day. Breed when the evening cools or early morning is even better. When breeding, do not use a male in hot weather more than once a day and never pen breed.
Frequency of use:
Sperm is viable for up to nine days in a female with natural breeding. (Threlfall OSU). AI breeding sperm is viable for 3-5 days, so most of us need to breed smarter not more frequent. The female ovulates at the end of standing heat, which is why they quit standing accepting the male. The best conception rate is when females are bred 4 days before or 3 days after ovulation. That is pretty wide window to hit!
Research done on frequency of use for males found healthy stud dogs could breed once daily without affecting fertility. In hot weather, never pen breed, leaving male with female! Put the females with the male and remove after the tie to limit the temperature influence and keep sperm numbers per ejaculate high. Most breeders moved away from pen breeding to better manage their best genetic stud dogs. Breeding every 3rd day will increase the number of sperm per ejaculate and increase success if some sperm are killed by hot weather. Sub-fertile stud dogs should only be used every third day for the same reason — Limited use will increase the number of live viable sperm per ejaculate available to fertilize eggs.
Infertile or Sterile Male:
The number of live sperm and limited number of abnormal sperm more closely correlates with ability to settle females than the total number of sperm! Both can be influenced by temperature. When we check males we cannot call them sterile on the basis of one sample. Repeatable lack of sperm or dead sperm is needed to declare a stud dog infertile. There are multiple reasons for temporary infertility from trauma to the testicle or infection and this article focus — overheating. Always check at least three times over 60 days before calling the stud dog sterile.
Brucellosis:
Both male and female fertility is affected by Brucella Canis! Any dog affected with testicular issues and infertility should have B. canis in the screening test. Likewise, any dog brought into the kennel for breeding should have Brucella testing to protect your breeding stock investment.
Testing involves serum sent to a lab and the most accurate test is the PCR test done at Kansas State University and Iowa State University. Other tests for B. canis have had issues with false positives and negatives not seen with the PCR test that detects the Brucella DNA. If you have a positive test, you can be assured it is positive and, likewise the negative is negative, no repeat testing is needed to prove the test results. Please always test any new dog and especially any adult dog brought into the kennel for breeding and be sure the PCR test was the one used.
Male Fertility Supplements:
L-Carnitine plays a vital role in the process of sperm development, in promoting proper maturation, and morphology of sperm. It also has a role in ensuring the maintenance of sperm quality and vitality.
Vitamins A, C, E, and Selenium are important vitamins and cleansing antioxidants that play a key role in repairing damage caused by the environment and aging.
Grape seed Extract scours damaging free-radicals from your system and literally prevents “rusting” of tissues and cells of the testicle.
Zinc has been shown to have a positive effect on sperm formation, sperm motility, and testosterone metabolism.
Vitamins - B6, B12 and Folate are vitamins critical to male reproductive.
Lastly Vitamin D has shown to increase sperm motility and I always use if males are primarily housed inside.
These are the vitamins, minerals, and herbs found through research to be helpful in mammals for maximum fertility. They can be useful when given during the breeding season. Research these products yourself or use Breeders' Edge® Oxy-Stud™ — with all these products in it at levels research recommended. Oxy-Stud is used during breeding season and best to start 30 days before for best results. The reason for use is maximum fertility and to keep the stud dog fertile. Most products do not correct infertility but can be helpful. You have an investment in your stud dog; the use of supplements can help keep your investment fertile!
Hot weather breeding is never a sure thing and is one of the toughest management times in the kennel! Keeping your stud dogs cool and not overusing can increase your hot weather breeding success!
http://www.revivalanimal.com/articles/hot-weather-breeding.html?a=REV120713PD
Season of the year:
Research tells us the season of the year does have an effect on concentration of sperm per ejaculate. Increase concentration occurs in Spring/Early Summer and lower concentration in Late Summer/Fall (Tahs 1981). Sperm concentration is thought to be influenced by photoperiod (day length) and the environmental temperature. One or both can be controlled. Though the concentration of sperm fluctuates, the normal dog is still fertile and can settle females any time of the year if managed well.
Temperature control:
The testicle is outside the body in the scrotum to keep it cooler than body temp. The breeding male is often housed outside and semen quality he is producing is sensitive to hot weather. When outside temp approaches 102°F – normal body temp – male fertility can suffer. Over 105°F and males can be subfertile or infertile if overheating happens. The issue with the testicle is the stored sperm in the epididymis – if it gets too hot the stored sperm dies and the replacement can take 60 days. Temperature is worth managing!
Water misters over the kennel with shade have long been used and can lower the environmental temp by 10°F. Simple solutions such as mister hoses, or in warm areas of the south more permanent nozzle misters, are sufficient. Timers can be set for the hottest part of day, 5 min every 30 min if temp is under 102°F and twice that high when over 102°F. Or just turn on during the 4-6 hours of afternoon sun at a low level. The shade can be permanent metal roofing or shade netting. Feedlot netting lasts for years and is effective. Just be sure to keep netting out of reach. If you have an air-conditioned kennel, keep males inside and don’t allow outside access during the hot of day. Breed when the evening cools or early morning is even better. When breeding, do not use a male in hot weather more than once a day and never pen breed.
Frequency of use:
Sperm is viable for up to nine days in a female with natural breeding. (Threlfall OSU). AI breeding sperm is viable for 3-5 days, so most of us need to breed smarter not more frequent. The female ovulates at the end of standing heat, which is why they quit standing accepting the male. The best conception rate is when females are bred 4 days before or 3 days after ovulation. That is pretty wide window to hit!
Research done on frequency of use for males found healthy stud dogs could breed once daily without affecting fertility. In hot weather, never pen breed, leaving male with female! Put the females with the male and remove after the tie to limit the temperature influence and keep sperm numbers per ejaculate high. Most breeders moved away from pen breeding to better manage their best genetic stud dogs. Breeding every 3rd day will increase the number of sperm per ejaculate and increase success if some sperm are killed by hot weather. Sub-fertile stud dogs should only be used every third day for the same reason — Limited use will increase the number of live viable sperm per ejaculate available to fertilize eggs.
Infertile or Sterile Male:
The number of live sperm and limited number of abnormal sperm more closely correlates with ability to settle females than the total number of sperm! Both can be influenced by temperature. When we check males we cannot call them sterile on the basis of one sample. Repeatable lack of sperm or dead sperm is needed to declare a stud dog infertile. There are multiple reasons for temporary infertility from trauma to the testicle or infection and this article focus — overheating. Always check at least three times over 60 days before calling the stud dog sterile.
Brucellosis:
Both male and female fertility is affected by Brucella Canis! Any dog affected with testicular issues and infertility should have B. canis in the screening test. Likewise, any dog brought into the kennel for breeding should have Brucella testing to protect your breeding stock investment.
Testing involves serum sent to a lab and the most accurate test is the PCR test done at Kansas State University and Iowa State University. Other tests for B. canis have had issues with false positives and negatives not seen with the PCR test that detects the Brucella DNA. If you have a positive test, you can be assured it is positive and, likewise the negative is negative, no repeat testing is needed to prove the test results. Please always test any new dog and especially any adult dog brought into the kennel for breeding and be sure the PCR test was the one used.
Male Fertility Supplements:
L-Carnitine plays a vital role in the process of sperm development, in promoting proper maturation, and morphology of sperm. It also has a role in ensuring the maintenance of sperm quality and vitality.
Vitamins A, C, E, and Selenium are important vitamins and cleansing antioxidants that play a key role in repairing damage caused by the environment and aging.
Grape seed Extract scours damaging free-radicals from your system and literally prevents “rusting” of tissues and cells of the testicle.
Zinc has been shown to have a positive effect on sperm formation, sperm motility, and testosterone metabolism.
Vitamins - B6, B12 and Folate are vitamins critical to male reproductive.
Lastly Vitamin D has shown to increase sperm motility and I always use if males are primarily housed inside.
These are the vitamins, minerals, and herbs found through research to be helpful in mammals for maximum fertility. They can be useful when given during the breeding season. Research these products yourself or use Breeders' Edge® Oxy-Stud™ — with all these products in it at levels research recommended. Oxy-Stud is used during breeding season and best to start 30 days before for best results. The reason for use is maximum fertility and to keep the stud dog fertile. Most products do not correct infertility but can be helpful. You have an investment in your stud dog; the use of supplements can help keep your investment fertile!
Hot weather breeding is never a sure thing and is one of the toughest management times in the kennel! Keeping your stud dogs cool and not overusing can increase your hot weather breeding success!
http://www.revivalanimal.com/articles/hot-weather-breeding.html?a=REV120713PD
Whats in a Bulldog and how do you test for it? by Brian Miller
What's in a name?
For the bulldog, most everything you need to know about its purpose and function... Once upon a time, the bulldog did quite well when pitted against a much larger, more powerful bull. Now that bull baiting (and other fun sports) have been outlawed how do we successfully test for a dog to maintain the qualities that made it such a famous breed?
Take a look at the qualities a dog would need to win against a bull. Number one, it would need the proper drives - namely lots of prey and lots of fight. The dog would need to be tenacious and unwilling to give up its task at all costs. Number two, it would need the physical body to make that happen- the size, power, striking speed, and endurance to get the job done.
Now, in this new world in which we live, what are some ways we can test for that? Personal Protection takes care of many of these, but what about tenacity? A dog capable of taking down a bull weighing 10-20 times more than it would need to display some serious commitment to the task. One of the best ways to test grit and determination with the job at hand is weight pull. Moving weights much larger than the dog itself was certainly part of the task of the Bulldog centuries gone by.
Those who wish to maintain the original traits which distinguish a bulldog from all other breeds would do well to employ at least some sort of testing in these two venues. Let us always remember what makes a bulldog so different, and work hard to maintain those traits, or lose the true Bulldog forever.
For the bulldog, most everything you need to know about its purpose and function... Once upon a time, the bulldog did quite well when pitted against a much larger, more powerful bull. Now that bull baiting (and other fun sports) have been outlawed how do we successfully test for a dog to maintain the qualities that made it such a famous breed?
Take a look at the qualities a dog would need to win against a bull. Number one, it would need the proper drives - namely lots of prey and lots of fight. The dog would need to be tenacious and unwilling to give up its task at all costs. Number two, it would need the physical body to make that happen- the size, power, striking speed, and endurance to get the job done.
Now, in this new world in which we live, what are some ways we can test for that? Personal Protection takes care of many of these, but what about tenacity? A dog capable of taking down a bull weighing 10-20 times more than it would need to display some serious commitment to the task. One of the best ways to test grit and determination with the job at hand is weight pull. Moving weights much larger than the dog itself was certainly part of the task of the Bulldog centuries gone by.
Those who wish to maintain the original traits which distinguish a bulldog from all other breeds would do well to employ at least some sort of testing in these two venues. Let us always remember what makes a bulldog so different, and work hard to maintain those traits, or lose the true Bulldog forever.
Scatterbred pedigree
When you have 3,4,7,or 10 different bloodlines
in your 3 generation pedigree, you are combining every outcross, every
inbreeding, every random breed, and all the philosophies into ONE breeding. Is
it any wonder that our breed is random and inconsistent? Inbreeding and linebreeding MUST be the tool of the breeder who wants to establish consistency in health, type, and temperament. Beware of the breeder who constantly outcrosses!
Heavy in it... by Brian Miller
As we float on this enormous blue and green ball in the infinite, individualized units all churning together as one massive organism swirling in the vapor, some of us realize our place, our calling, where every moment basks in purpose. There is no path greater than the purpose driven life - the life that will eventually come crawling to the instant of acceptance and release leaving the world forever bent to the whim of this temporary creator expelling one last lung filled breath. One unique mind and body never to be replicated, laced with individualized talents yet even in the unfathomable reaches of ceaseless time will never again be repeated. Each of us, reminded of yourself as you read word by word, was set upon our own micro thin slice of the ever growing timeline, made specifically with the capacity to fill a need. Just as a single cell of a greater tendon was made to support function of a muscle acting upon a single bone facilitation tension upon a toe to maintain the balance of man to stand erect amongst droves of horizontal spines, each individual has a role to play, a void to fill.
It has been said that with knowledge comes freedom, and with freedom - responsibility. Each of us may one day face ourselves towards the end of the long road and be required to answer the most pressing of questions. Did I lead a meaningful life? When you look back upon each choice, each option you took, each step you made to take you down that road you have now found yourself trudging upon, will the reexamination of your commitment of your acutely valuable time spent on bulldogges fill your heart with the sensation of fulfilled aspirations? If not, don't you feel that you owe it to yourself to commit to something that will? Love it or leave it, this is not a game for all but it is most certainly the game for me. - Brian Miller, Evolution Bulldogges
It has been said that with knowledge comes freedom, and with freedom - responsibility. Each of us may one day face ourselves towards the end of the long road and be required to answer the most pressing of questions. Did I lead a meaningful life? When you look back upon each choice, each option you took, each step you made to take you down that road you have now found yourself trudging upon, will the reexamination of your commitment of your acutely valuable time spent on bulldogges fill your heart with the sensation of fulfilled aspirations? If not, don't you feel that you owe it to yourself to commit to something that will? Love it or leave it, this is not a game for all but it is most certainly the game for me. - Brian Miller, Evolution Bulldogges
Friday, July 27, 2012
Sunday, July 8, 2012
I AM A BREEDER
I am a breeder.....
My food receipts for a family of seven and my dog food bills match. My water bill has doubled. My electric has tripled. It is I, a breeder, who when my fridge quit, saved the dog meds and let the food go bad. My feet find the way to the kennel before I have even grabbed a cup of coffee in the morning and the kennel is my last stop before bed. While my friends are on a cruise to the Bahamas and my family meets for Christmas, I am home delivering puppies. I haven't had a real vacation in seven years, but maybe soon. All plans are made around heat dates, whelp dates and vet dates. I shower and 10 minutes later my grandkids say I smell like a dog. My clothes are all stained with fecal matter, urine, afterbirth or bleach. I have to remember to clean my shoes before church.
Most of my friends breed dogs. Who else can you call at 3 a.m. for support? Who else has the experience I sometimes need, the med I sometimes need, or just an uplifting word I sometimes need ? Who else would understand how it feels to have invested hours and hours and hours in a weak puppy to lose it? Or the joy in investing hours in one that lives? I have slept on the floor beside a litter until the crucial two weeks have passed. I have bottle fed a litter of 12, feeding every two hours and it taking 90 minutes to do for weeks at a time. I have learned to be proficient at micro-chipping, vaccinations, sub q fluids, bottle feeding and tube feeding.
My vet knows me by first name. The vet knows my children. The vet now knows my grandchildren. My vet knows it was I who added on the wing to the vet clinic.
I am a breeder.
It is to me that 63 days takes on new meaning still excited by every new life. It is I who delivers all my pups, towels and heat lamps on ready, happiness and sadness sometimes intermingled. Even though it increases my work load, I look forward to the 10-day stage when eyes open, and puppies begin to emerge from the helplessness of newborns. Puppy breath, a first bark, and a heart for exploration. I am not uneducated, unemployable, illiterate or lazy as some animal-rights folks would imply of breeders. I am a conscientious lover of animals and I have found my niche.
I am a breeder.
And although I feel no shame, there is a part of me that feels the need to hide from powers that could come to invade my home and take my dogs ...maybe for finding a mild infraction, a leaf in the water dish? A kennel not yet cleaned for the day? A rash I am home treating? I tell my children and grandchildren to hush, do not tell others we are dog breeders, and I wonder when did breeding puppies go into the same secret place as criminal activity?
I am a breeder and I am not cruel, dumb, uncaring or criminal. I am not raking in money while sitting on my butt. Every penny I make I earn through blood, sweat and tears. My greatest joy is a healthy puppy and a wonderful home. The cards of thanks and the pictures of my puppy with its new family is the fringe benefits of my efforts. I am an animal lover, nurse, midwife, heavy laborer, customer service representative, and marketer.
AND I am a breeder.
--Lori Hallfrisct
My food receipts for a family of seven and my dog food bills match. My water bill has doubled. My electric has tripled. It is I, a breeder, who when my fridge quit, saved the dog meds and let the food go bad. My feet find the way to the kennel before I have even grabbed a cup of coffee in the morning and the kennel is my last stop before bed. While my friends are on a cruise to the Bahamas and my family meets for Christmas, I am home delivering puppies. I haven't had a real vacation in seven years, but maybe soon. All plans are made around heat dates, whelp dates and vet dates. I shower and 10 minutes later my grandkids say I smell like a dog. My clothes are all stained with fecal matter, urine, afterbirth or bleach. I have to remember to clean my shoes before church.
Most of my friends breed dogs. Who else can you call at 3 a.m. for support? Who else has the experience I sometimes need, the med I sometimes need, or just an uplifting word I sometimes need ? Who else would understand how it feels to have invested hours and hours and hours in a weak puppy to lose it? Or the joy in investing hours in one that lives? I have slept on the floor beside a litter until the crucial two weeks have passed. I have bottle fed a litter of 12, feeding every two hours and it taking 90 minutes to do for weeks at a time. I have learned to be proficient at micro-chipping, vaccinations, sub q fluids, bottle feeding and tube feeding.
My vet knows me by first name. The vet knows my children. The vet now knows my grandchildren. My vet knows it was I who added on the wing to the vet clinic.
I am a breeder.
It is to me that 63 days takes on new meaning still excited by every new life. It is I who delivers all my pups, towels and heat lamps on ready, happiness and sadness sometimes intermingled. Even though it increases my work load, I look forward to the 10-day stage when eyes open, and puppies begin to emerge from the helplessness of newborns. Puppy breath, a first bark, and a heart for exploration. I am not uneducated, unemployable, illiterate or lazy as some animal-rights folks would imply of breeders. I am a conscientious lover of animals and I have found my niche.
I am a breeder.
And although I feel no shame, there is a part of me that feels the need to hide from powers that could come to invade my home and take my dogs ...maybe for finding a mild infraction, a leaf in the water dish? A kennel not yet cleaned for the day? A rash I am home treating? I tell my children and grandchildren to hush, do not tell others we are dog breeders, and I wonder when did breeding puppies go into the same secret place as criminal activity?
I am a breeder and I am not cruel, dumb, uncaring or criminal. I am not raking in money while sitting on my butt. Every penny I make I earn through blood, sweat and tears. My greatest joy is a healthy puppy and a wonderful home. The cards of thanks and the pictures of my puppy with its new family is the fringe benefits of my efforts. I am an animal lover, nurse, midwife, heavy laborer, customer service representative, and marketer.
AND I am a breeder.
--Lori Hallfrisct
Saturday, July 7, 2012
Friday, July 6, 2012
Let me make something clear, (this is me being honest). The only reason I am not even meaner than I already am is because I want to try to persuade people to breed a better bulldogge FOR THE BREED. I get annoyed at all the political correctness, especially when its a grown man crying about it. If someone doesnt like me, they can shove it. Im not going anywhere. Im here to stay. And if you breed unhealthy dogs Im gonna be on you. Like it or not, I dont care about your "judge not" philosophy. That being said, there are alot of people breeding garbage dogs who are trying to do better! I give major props to you!!! I get phone calls, emails, texts, and FB messages EVERY DAY from people with dog related questions. My door is always open to share with anyone what I am learning. I am trying to build my ideal bulldogge. My vision scares the weak, and encourages the strong. I like everybody, I want to learn from everybody, and I want to help everybody, but I am not going to tip toe around feelings while my breed is at stake. Pick up an oar and help paddle the boat, or sit there and shut your mouth. Just don't get in my way while I try to rescue a breed filled with looters.
Two roads diverged in a yellow wood,
and sorry I could not travel both.
Yet be one traveler long I stood,
and looked down one as far as I could
to where it bent in the undergrowth;
Then took the other, as just as fair.
And having perhaps the better claim,
because it was grassy and wanted wear.
Though as for that the passing there
had worn them really about the same.
So both that morning equally lay
in leaves no step had trodden black
Oh! I kept the first for another day!
Yet knowing how way leads onto way.
I doubted if I should ever come back.
I shall be telling this with a sigh
somewhere ages and ages hence;
Two roads diverged in a wood and I
took the one less traveled by.
And THAT has made all the difference.
--Robert Frost (1916) This is one of my most favorite poems. It says alot about life. I think this also describes what we are trying to do here at Irish Evolution.
and sorry I could not travel both.
Yet be one traveler long I stood,
and looked down one as far as I could
to where it bent in the undergrowth;
Then took the other, as just as fair.
And having perhaps the better claim,
because it was grassy and wanted wear.
Though as for that the passing there
had worn them really about the same.
So both that morning equally lay
in leaves no step had trodden black
Oh! I kept the first for another day!
Yet knowing how way leads onto way.
I doubted if I should ever come back.
I shall be telling this with a sigh
somewhere ages and ages hence;
Two roads diverged in a wood and I
took the one less traveled by.
And THAT has made all the difference.
--Robert Frost (1916) This is one of my most favorite poems. It says alot about life. I think this also describes what we are trying to do here at Irish Evolution.
Friday, June 8, 2012
A BULLDOGS CHEST
A Bulldogge's chest
| Bulldogs are known for their
wide, brawny chest's. Most are liked because of the "look". In my opinion, we
far too often forget about the actual correlation between the dogs chest and his
movement. There is always talk about how big bulldogges dont move as well as
smaller bulldogges. In reality, this is soley dependant on the dog's structure,
not his size. This is how you can have the big Evo dogs or the The forechest of the bulldogge is very important. If it is shallow or narrow it will affect the shoulders and forequarters, resulting in poor balance and bad layback of the shoulders. When the chest is shallow you will often notice a tall and straight set of shoulders, with straight arms. In contrast, when the chest is too wide or heavy the pendulum will swing in the opposite direction, still against the dogs favor. A steep shoulder with improper layback will affect the dogs movement, power, and endurance. When your bulldogge is walking straight toward you, the leg should move straight forward in a lengthy stride. If the dog does not have good chest or shoulder structure, he may be taking 2 or 3 small steps when one long |
Tuesday, May 29, 2012
You are a dog breeder?
YOU ARE A DOG BREEDER??
You dont know what stifles are, but you're a dog breeder? You dont know anything about genetics, but you're a dog breeder? You've never produced a cull, but you're a dog breeder? Your generations never get better, but you're a dog breeder? You havn't produced any of your breeding stock, but you're a dog breeder? You've been doing this for over 10 years, yet the new boys ru...n the game better, and you're a dog breeder? Your bulldogs have the heart of a chihuahua, but you're a dog breeder? Your bulldogs have the intelligence of a fish, but you're a dog breeder? Your bulldogs have the health of a cancer patient, but you're a dog breeder? You cant handle any correction or advice, but you're a dog breeder? Your dogs dont do anything besides exist, but you're a dog breeder? You have to give dogs away because people wont buy them, but you're a dog breeder? You have "sales" every time you have a litter, but you're a dog breeder? Your biggest accomplishment is a paint job on a dog, but you're a dog breeder? A dog breeder needs to know A-Z, and you dont know ABC. Please...
You dont know what stifles are, but you're a dog breeder? You dont know anything about genetics, but you're a dog breeder? You've never produced a cull, but you're a dog breeder? Your generations never get better, but you're a dog breeder? You havn't produced any of your breeding stock, but you're a dog breeder? You've been doing this for over 10 years, yet the new boys ru...n the game better, and you're a dog breeder? Your bulldogs have the heart of a chihuahua, but you're a dog breeder? Your bulldogs have the intelligence of a fish, but you're a dog breeder? Your bulldogs have the health of a cancer patient, but you're a dog breeder? You cant handle any correction or advice, but you're a dog breeder? Your dogs dont do anything besides exist, but you're a dog breeder? You have to give dogs away because people wont buy them, but you're a dog breeder? You have "sales" every time you have a litter, but you're a dog breeder? Your biggest accomplishment is a paint job on a dog, but you're a dog breeder? A dog breeder needs to know A-Z, and you dont know ABC. Please...
Wednesday, May 23, 2012
Who breeds good bulldogs?
| This is just a bit of a rant,
but in my opinion, the more you listen and watch, the more you can see who is
breeding quality bulldogges. It doesnt matter how long someone has been at it,
it doesnt matter how many ribbons and guild trophies sit on thier shelves (i
just saw a dog win 24 awards at 1 show). Do not buy into all the hype and
advertisements. Real hard hitting knowledge is all I am after. Most of the dog breeders in the olde game are like the guy standing on the corner with a jacket full of fake gold watches."Wanna buy a watch?" he says. Very similar to the breeder who says "wanna buy a pup"? |
Having a mentor
Many people refuse to have a mentor just like
many 18 year olds refuse to hear thier parents advice. They must screw it all up
themselves in order to learn.I choose to have a mentor not because I can't stand
on my own 2 feet (after all, I have been helping othe people with thier breeding
programs)but because I subscribe to the belief that 90% of the worlds most
successful people had or have mentors.They will be the 1st to tell you this. To
me, having a close friend or confidant who is further down the path than I am is
invaluable.
HAVING A MENTOR GIVES YOU AN ADVANTAGE BECAUSE:
1.You have direct access to the thoughts and practices that got them where they are
2.You can become personally familiar with the line of dogs that is probably your foundation
3.Your mentor will pass down thier knowledge and experience
4. You will have a successful person who knows where youre headed because they have been there and done that!
5.You will be taught things that you could only learn from loss of time, wasted money, and heartache.
DO NOT SELECT A MENTOR WHO...
1.Is not aware of the common health problems in the breed.
2.Has not done what you want to do, bred the dogs you want to breed, & does not know what you want to know
3.Does not test thier own breeding stock against health, temperament, and genetic traits
4.Lies about pedigree's
HAVING A MENTOR GIVES YOU AN ADVANTAGE BECAUSE:
1.You have direct access to the thoughts and practices that got them where they are
2.You can become personally familiar with the line of dogs that is probably your foundation
3.Your mentor will pass down thier knowledge and experience
4. You will have a successful person who knows where youre headed because they have been there and done that!
5.You will be taught things that you could only learn from loss of time, wasted money, and heartache.
DO NOT SELECT A MENTOR WHO...
1.Is not aware of the common health problems in the breed.
2.Has not done what you want to do, bred the dogs you want to breed, & does not know what you want to know
3.Does not test thier own breeding stock against health, temperament, and genetic traits
4.Lies about pedigree's
Saturday, May 19, 2012
Money
Money
The love of money in relation to the dog game: I am convinced that almost 90% of the negative things that happen in the dog game happen because of money. I like money. I dont know anyone who doesn't. But if you think about, the way we look at money affects almost everything we do, say, or think. Are registries good for dogs? History has proven that they do not really benifit dogs. Registrie...s are started for several reasons, the biggest reason is to make $$$. If not, they would register for free or donate alot of it to BSL and rescue. You have to sell dogs in order to make enough $$ to keep your program and dogs in top shape. The only way you can really profit in the dog game is to cut corners. I see this every day. 90% of breeders are not charging a certain dollar amount because of the time, work, and planning they put in thier program, they charge it because someone else does. Money. We network and advertise and do all we do, why? To make money. The love and desire of money will ruin a program faster than you can blink. Money is a tool. So is dog food. So are kennels. If look at money as anything other than a tool, it then becomes our desire. Our desire becomes our boss. Money makes a great servant, but a terrible master.
The love of money in relation to the dog game: I am convinced that almost 90% of the negative things that happen in the dog game happen because of money. I like money. I dont know anyone who doesn't. But if you think about, the way we look at money affects almost everything we do, say, or think. Are registries good for dogs? History has proven that they do not really benifit dogs. Registrie...s are started for several reasons, the biggest reason is to make $$$. If not, they would register for free or donate alot of it to BSL and rescue. You have to sell dogs in order to make enough $$ to keep your program and dogs in top shape. The only way you can really profit in the dog game is to cut corners. I see this every day. 90% of breeders are not charging a certain dollar amount because of the time, work, and planning they put in thier program, they charge it because someone else does. Money. We network and advertise and do all we do, why? To make money. The love and desire of money will ruin a program faster than you can blink. Money is a tool. So is dog food. So are kennels. If look at money as anything other than a tool, it then becomes our desire. Our desire becomes our boss. Money makes a great servant, but a terrible master.
Thursday, May 3, 2012
Bulldog Mutations
Bulldog mutations
It is obvious that through each decade the various bulldog types and breeds have been building upon new mutations. The bully is, in fact, mutation upon mutation.Perhaps the English Bulldog is the best example of the damage mutated genes can cause. Most of the modern bulldog breeds either came down off of EB blood or were influenced by it. The unfortunate thing, is that many novice or "newbie" breeders are constantly playing with these mutated genes and trying to create greatness with unsound dogs. The more mutated and exaggerated a dog is, the more people praise it. There is even a breed that has introduced an "Extreme Class" for all the breeders who don't have a clue what correct canine structure is. An observation I have made when looking at genetics is : MUTATIONS CAUSE GENETIC INFORMATION TO BE LOST, NOT GAINED. In my opinion, when we add new mutations or more exaggerated mutations into a genetically consistent line of dogs, we alter the overall genetics, and immediately lose a vast amount of genetic consistency. So it had better be worthwhile to introduce that mutated gene, because we have to work hard for awhile to re-establish consistency in related dogs. The best way to consistency is inbreeding and linebreeding. Outcrossing (which is the common practice of 90% of breeders out there) is the quickest way to inconsistency, unpredictability, and genetic mess. In my opinion, the only reason to outcross is if a dog has something so valuable to your program that you are willing to alter the genetic code in your line and work to get back the consistency. For those of you who are pet owners and not breeders, if you buy dogs from those who inbreed and linebreed rather than constantly outcross, I think you will be much happier with the results of your investment.
It is obvious that through each decade the various bulldog types and breeds have been building upon new mutations. The bully is, in fact, mutation upon mutation.Perhaps the English Bulldog is the best example of the damage mutated genes can cause. Most of the modern bulldog breeds either came down off of EB blood or were influenced by it. The unfortunate thing, is that many novice or "newbie" breeders are constantly playing with these mutated genes and trying to create greatness with unsound dogs. The more mutated and exaggerated a dog is, the more people praise it. There is even a breed that has introduced an "Extreme Class" for all the breeders who don't have a clue what correct canine structure is. An observation I have made when looking at genetics is : MUTATIONS CAUSE GENETIC INFORMATION TO BE LOST, NOT GAINED. In my opinion, when we add new mutations or more exaggerated mutations into a genetically consistent line of dogs, we alter the overall genetics, and immediately lose a vast amount of genetic consistency. So it had better be worthwhile to introduce that mutated gene, because we have to work hard for awhile to re-establish consistency in related dogs. The best way to consistency is inbreeding and linebreeding. Outcrossing (which is the common practice of 90% of breeders out there) is the quickest way to inconsistency, unpredictability, and genetic mess. In my opinion, the only reason to outcross is if a dog has something so valuable to your program that you are willing to alter the genetic code in your line and work to get back the consistency. For those of you who are pet owners and not breeders, if you buy dogs from those who inbreed and linebreed rather than constantly outcross, I think you will be much happier with the results of your investment.
Tuesday, April 24, 2012
Balance in the Bulldog
My thoughts
The overall balance in the bulldogge is of utmost importance. Each moving part should work in harmony with the others. The dog should move fluidly, almost cat-like, rather than bounding, and rabbit-like.
When viewing the Olde Bulldogge from a side view, he should not appear to be leaning forward, putting the majority of his weight on his front legs and feet. His head should be held high, viewing straight forward, not looking down. The neck of the bulldogge should transition fluidly into the topline and withers.
Legs and feet play a big role in the dogs balance, speed, power, and agility. Most Olde's do not have legs that are proportioned to thier size and weight. Legs should be thick and muscular. Thier length should correlate with body weight, body height, and body length. They should flow into thick, tightly knuckled "cat feet". Feet should orient straight. The bulldogges feet are very important. Imagine an olympic runner with flat feet. It doesn't work. Men with flat feet cannot be soldiers. A dog with improperly formed feet cannot perform very many duties, or lead a quality pain free life. Far too many breeders are breeding heavy, thick boned Olde's with straight legs and bad feet. This greatly reduces the dogs balance and longevity. People may say" My dog can run and jump just fine". I would reply "Yes, but for how long, at what age, and at what cost to the dogs overall longevity?" I am more concerned with what the dog is physically capable of at 6 or 7 years old, than at 2 or 3 years old.
85% of my puppies go into pet homes. The other 15% go to breeders, or working homes. No one wants a pet who falls apart at age 6. No breeder wants a dog who does this or produces this, and without proper structure and balance, a bulldogge wont be much of a worker. One who breeds incorrect dogs will not will not continue to be in the game after 5 years (if that). But, not until after they have put at least 100 structural and temperamental train wrecks into the world.
For correct balance, when viewing the bulldogge from the front, do not look at the dog itself persay. Look at the space in between its front legs, and the space in between the ground and the bottom of the chest. That empty space should be square shaped. Equal height to width (in that space) is a well balanced dog. If that space is rectangular, the dogs legs are too short and wide set. This dog will not have proper balance and weight distribution. He should not lean forward on his front end. This is also improper balance and shows signs of HD or weak rear structure.
Remember: Looks can be decieving! Just because a dog is muscular, doesnt mean he is strong. Just because a dog is thick, doesnt mean he is well built. Just because a dog is wide, doesnt mean he is balanced.
The bulldogge is mutation built upon mutation. I admire large, powerful, muscled up bulldogges. However, a dog without balance of form and ability is not capable of helping the breed. Balance and proportions must be the foundation upon which the bulldogge is built.
The overall balance in the bulldogge is of utmost importance. Each moving part should work in harmony with the others. The dog should move fluidly, almost cat-like, rather than bounding, and rabbit-like.
When viewing the Olde Bulldogge from a side view, he should not appear to be leaning forward, putting the majority of his weight on his front legs and feet. His head should be held high, viewing straight forward, not looking down. The neck of the bulldogge should transition fluidly into the topline and withers.
Legs and feet play a big role in the dogs balance, speed, power, and agility. Most Olde's do not have legs that are proportioned to thier size and weight. Legs should be thick and muscular. Thier length should correlate with body weight, body height, and body length. They should flow into thick, tightly knuckled "cat feet". Feet should orient straight. The bulldogges feet are very important. Imagine an olympic runner with flat feet. It doesn't work. Men with flat feet cannot be soldiers. A dog with improperly formed feet cannot perform very many duties, or lead a quality pain free life. Far too many breeders are breeding heavy, thick boned Olde's with straight legs and bad feet. This greatly reduces the dogs balance and longevity. People may say" My dog can run and jump just fine". I would reply "Yes, but for how long, at what age, and at what cost to the dogs overall longevity?" I am more concerned with what the dog is physically capable of at 6 or 7 years old, than at 2 or 3 years old.
85% of my puppies go into pet homes. The other 15% go to breeders, or working homes. No one wants a pet who falls apart at age 6. No breeder wants a dog who does this or produces this, and without proper structure and balance, a bulldogge wont be much of a worker. One who breeds incorrect dogs will not will not continue to be in the game after 5 years (if that). But, not until after they have put at least 100 structural and temperamental train wrecks into the world.
For correct balance, when viewing the bulldogge from the front, do not look at the dog itself persay. Look at the space in between its front legs, and the space in between the ground and the bottom of the chest. That empty space should be square shaped. Equal height to width (in that space) is a well balanced dog. If that space is rectangular, the dogs legs are too short and wide set. This dog will not have proper balance and weight distribution. He should not lean forward on his front end. This is also improper balance and shows signs of HD or weak rear structure.
Remember: Looks can be decieving! Just because a dog is muscular, doesnt mean he is strong. Just because a dog is thick, doesnt mean he is well built. Just because a dog is wide, doesnt mean he is balanced.
The bulldogge is mutation built upon mutation. I admire large, powerful, muscled up bulldogges. However, a dog without balance of form and ability is not capable of helping the breed. Balance and proportions must be the foundation upon which the bulldogge is built.
Tuesday, March 27, 2012
Recognize the signs, not just the finsihed problem
When referencing the problems in many bulldogges, we can lot dog owners and breeders into 3 groups for the sake of this conversation. The first group are the people that do not recognize the problems in their canines. Their dogs may have HD, entropion, temperament disorders, pinched nares, e.t.c. and they simply do not recognize it. When these problems are pointed out by other people, they often lash out, or ignore the source of the information. We can usually find these people breeding dogs that hurt the breed rather than contribute to it. These types of breeders will often NEVER recognize the problems in their dogs, simply because they do not want to know the issues, because they then feel as if they have to do something about it.
The second group is the group who DOES recognize the problems in their dogs. Now, what they do with the information decides whether they are good for the breed or not. Some problems in bulldogges should never try to be corrected. If a dog is affected with some of these serious issues such as demodex, they simply should not be bred. Ever. There are other issues that can be corrected with objective and planned breedings. The knowledge of the problems within our breeding dogs scares many of us. That knowledge, however, is what empowers us to breed the right dog to the right dog. bred tight is bred right. However if there is a problem within a line, breeding tight may cause this issue to become a dominant trait in that bloodline. Calculating our breedings properly can only be done if we are aware of the problems within our dogs and our breed. If you recognize and acknowledge the problems within your dogs, you have the potential to be a phenomenal breeder.
The third, and last group, is the type of person who not only recognizes the problems themselves, they also recognize the SIGNS of the problems. Imagine if before any problems in our life came, we had a warning and a sign to show us it was on our way! We would be able to dodge or prevent most of our problems, if not all of them. In life, this isnt always possible. It isnt in dog breeding either. However, we can learn the signs of many issues that bother the breed, and thereby prevent ALOT of stress and wasted time. For instance, many breeders will Xray their dogs hips as a general practice. By doing this they will be shown the quality of the dogs hips. But, what about other issues? Many breeders do not check for the other things that affect their dogs or their line (or the breed). Some signs of HIP DYSPLASIA are: keeping back legs up underneath them to put more weight on the front legs, sitting like a frog with back legs splayed out in front of them, hopping like a rabbit after a few minutes of play, weak non muscled bony hip and back leg areas, limping, trouble rising after they've been lying down for a bit. Some of the early signs of ECTROPION: watery or teary eyes, red eyes, eye twitching, visible swelling or inward rolling of the eyelids( further in the case), paw rubbing at the eyes.
Now, these are just 2 examples. What i am saying is, if we can learn the early signs, rather than just the problem itself, we can prevent alot of issues and bad breedings.
The second group is the group who DOES recognize the problems in their dogs. Now, what they do with the information decides whether they are good for the breed or not. Some problems in bulldogges should never try to be corrected. If a dog is affected with some of these serious issues such as demodex, they simply should not be bred. Ever. There are other issues that can be corrected with objective and planned breedings. The knowledge of the problems within our breeding dogs scares many of us. That knowledge, however, is what empowers us to breed the right dog to the right dog. bred tight is bred right. However if there is a problem within a line, breeding tight may cause this issue to become a dominant trait in that bloodline. Calculating our breedings properly can only be done if we are aware of the problems within our dogs and our breed. If you recognize and acknowledge the problems within your dogs, you have the potential to be a phenomenal breeder.
The third, and last group, is the type of person who not only recognizes the problems themselves, they also recognize the SIGNS of the problems. Imagine if before any problems in our life came, we had a warning and a sign to show us it was on our way! We would be able to dodge or prevent most of our problems, if not all of them. In life, this isnt always possible. It isnt in dog breeding either. However, we can learn the signs of many issues that bother the breed, and thereby prevent ALOT of stress and wasted time. For instance, many breeders will Xray their dogs hips as a general practice. By doing this they will be shown the quality of the dogs hips. But, what about other issues? Many breeders do not check for the other things that affect their dogs or their line (or the breed). Some signs of HIP DYSPLASIA are: keeping back legs up underneath them to put more weight on the front legs, sitting like a frog with back legs splayed out in front of them, hopping like a rabbit after a few minutes of play, weak non muscled bony hip and back leg areas, limping, trouble rising after they've been lying down for a bit. Some of the early signs of ECTROPION: watery or teary eyes, red eyes, eye twitching, visible swelling or inward rolling of the eyelids( further in the case), paw rubbing at the eyes.
Now, these are just 2 examples. What i am saying is, if we can learn the early signs, rather than just the problem itself, we can prevent alot of issues and bad breedings.
Wednesday, March 14, 2012
Monday, February 27, 2012
Saturday, February 18, 2012
Friday, February 17, 2012
THE NEXT GENERATION
Every pet owner should ask this of their breeder, and Every breeder should ask themselves the following question: Is the last dog I produced better than the first dog I produced? If the answer is yes, now ask "why"? How? What is it that makes them better? Is the last litter I produced better than the litters I produced 2 years ago? What are the factors that aide you in determining a yes or no answer? A different color, wider chest, or famous pedigree does not cut it. As breeders, we all must strive to produce better dogs with each generation. Why? Because if the product of our kennel is not getting better with each generation, then we are staying in the same place. As breeders we cannot remain in the same place for several years. We are either growing or wilting. Increasing or decreasing. For many breeders, their Ideal Bulldogge is already in their yard. They have arrived so to speak. These people will not grow. They have already achieved their goal. Even our favorite dogs should simply be stepping stones to an even better creation. Unfortunately, there are far too many good "pet owners" breeding dogs. Its a thinking mans game. Its a battle that takes strategy. Its not for the faint of heart and weak willed. Remember this: If the generations arn't getting better, they're getting worse.Now lets all look in the mirror and shape things up!
Thursday, February 9, 2012
Breeding Better Bulldogges
BREEDING BULLDOGGES REQUIRES A SERIOUS COMMITMENT
how many times have we heard, " I used to breed something else, and now I breed Olde English Bulldogges!"These same people probably will not be breeding Olde's down the road, either. Most breeders are bandwagon breeders. they are not willing to put in the time, the money, the effort, the sweat, the learning, or the hard work that it requires to breed a prosperous bloodline of OEB's.They are not commited to quality, they are commited to making money. When they find out that there isn't much money to be made, they go on to the next hot breed or color. If you are going to breed OEB's, then you must be commited to excellence. If you can't give a serious commitment to your program, then don't breed.
BREEDING BULLDOGGES REQUIRES A SACRAFICE
You may need to move to a different location, purchase land, build kennels, spend money. Your family will need to sacrafice. Breeding bulldogges will alter and affect every area of your life. The sacrafice that breeding a quality line of bulldogges requires differs from family to family, but nothing great comes without great sacrafice.
BREEDING BULLDOGGES REQUIRES SUPERIOR SKILL
Everyone wants to just buy a few expensive bulldogges, stick em together, let em raise pups, and come up with a kennel name. Skill comes through knowledge and experience. Experience comes through time, but knowledge can be had to those who want it. Read, Read, Read, Read all you can. Learn all you can. Ask questions, talk to others. Find a mentor. You cannot breed quality bulldogges if you simply just breed. It goes way past that. You must develop skill in your program, or you will be a part of the problem, not part of the solution.
how many times have we heard, " I used to breed something else, and now I breed Olde English Bulldogges!"These same people probably will not be breeding Olde's down the road, either. Most breeders are bandwagon breeders. they are not willing to put in the time, the money, the effort, the sweat, the learning, or the hard work that it requires to breed a prosperous bloodline of OEB's.They are not commited to quality, they are commited to making money. When they find out that there isn't much money to be made, they go on to the next hot breed or color. If you are going to breed OEB's, then you must be commited to excellence. If you can't give a serious commitment to your program, then don't breed.
BREEDING BULLDOGGES REQUIRES A SACRAFICE
You may need to move to a different location, purchase land, build kennels, spend money. Your family will need to sacrafice. Breeding bulldogges will alter and affect every area of your life. The sacrafice that breeding a quality line of bulldogges requires differs from family to family, but nothing great comes without great sacrafice.
BREEDING BULLDOGGES REQUIRES SUPERIOR SKILL
Everyone wants to just buy a few expensive bulldogges, stick em together, let em raise pups, and come up with a kennel name. Skill comes through knowledge and experience. Experience comes through time, but knowledge can be had to those who want it. Read, Read, Read, Read all you can. Learn all you can. Ask questions, talk to others. Find a mentor. You cannot breed quality bulldogges if you simply just breed. It goes way past that. You must develop skill in your program, or you will be a part of the problem, not part of the solution.
Saturday, February 4, 2012
Why do fireman wear red suspenders?
Think about it. is it so they dont focus on the fire so much? Is it because it matches the rest of their apparel? No. They wear red suspenders to keep their pants up. But wait... why RED suspenders? Who cares. By asking yourself this question, you focus on RED instead of the suspenders. Focus on the wrong thing. The lesson to be learned here is that we overanalyze the situation in our lives. We focus on the wrong things when trying to solve problems. We make it complex when it is simple. Don't overthink the situation. take a step back, and look at it from a different perspective. K.I.S.S. (keep it simple, stupid)
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
If you want to perpetuate an entire line of quality dogs, you must select only the dogs who will help you reach that goal. Breeding dogs are tools in our toolbox which we use for our project. An OEB breeders project should be breeding top quality OEB's that raise the bar of the breed and better the next generation. Therefore, as a breeder, you must know what good/bad traits your dogs posess, how they will affect your line, and breed according to that knowledge.The dogs you select, will be what you produce. The dogs you breed, will be what you produce. Not very often do you breed subpar dogs and get exceptional offspring. Not very often do you breed exceptional dogs and get subpar offspring. As Brian Miller explained in his post about x-raying hips on dogs, if a dog has some area where it is lacking, that doesnt mean you need to scrap the dog from your program. Learn what you can and cannot work with. Learn how to breed through the issues. Im not saying breed your dog with demodex, or entropion. What I am saying is not every flaw should be a fatal one. A breeder who knows their pedigree, dogs, and bloodlines well will be able to easily determine which flaws are ok to work through, and which flaws must remove dogs from the breeding plan.
Decide what kind of dog you want to produce, and use only dogs who can help you produce what you're after. Don't settle for just any animal because they're available. Choose wisely, make informed moves.
There should be specific testing and specific requirements for every dog within your program. If the dog does not meet these requirements, it should not be allowed in your program. Do not select a breeding dog based on easy things. (Dont breed because of its bloodline, color, size, etc). The dog makes the dog, not the bloodline, color, or head size.
Also, another question breeders must ask themselves when evaluating breeding stock is: does this dog produce better than itself? If a dog is not capable of breeding better than itself, how can it help you to raise the bar? How can it help provide you with a better generation?
You get what you work for. If you want great dogs, you must select and breed for great dogs.
The best way to do this in my opinion is to have a clear, defined goal within your breeding program. Have a blueprint. Know where you want to be in the next 2 years. A running back with no endzone to run to plays a pointless game. Get the ball in your hands, keep your eyes on the goal line, and dont let anybody or anything stop you from reaching your goal.
Decide what kind of dog you want to produce, and use only dogs who can help you produce what you're after. Don't settle for just any animal because they're available. Choose wisely, make informed moves.
There should be specific testing and specific requirements for every dog within your program. If the dog does not meet these requirements, it should not be allowed in your program. Do not select a breeding dog based on easy things. (Dont breed because of its bloodline, color, size, etc). The dog makes the dog, not the bloodline, color, or head size.
Also, another question breeders must ask themselves when evaluating breeding stock is: does this dog produce better than itself? If a dog is not capable of breeding better than itself, how can it help you to raise the bar? How can it help provide you with a better generation?
You get what you work for. If you want great dogs, you must select and breed for great dogs.
The best way to do this in my opinion is to have a clear, defined goal within your breeding program. Have a blueprint. Know where you want to be in the next 2 years. A running back with no endzone to run to plays a pointless game. Get the ball in your hands, keep your eyes on the goal line, and dont let anybody or anything stop you from reaching your goal.
Sunday, January 29, 2012
Saturday, January 28, 2012
Thursday, January 26, 2012
Monday, January 23, 2012
Friday, January 20, 2012
Thursday, January 19, 2012
Monday, January 16, 2012
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)