Page 21 - Chow Life - Winter 2025

Helpful Hints From

Successful Breeders

by WILLIAM GIVEN

Believe it or not, there are people in the world today study with other breeders whenever the opportunity
who sincerely believe all breeders are deplorable presents itself. Holly Schorr of Penny Lane
human beings and making an untold profit from Dobermans says, “Be a sponge.”
willful criminal behavior. They also feel everyone
should get their pet from a shelter. The problem is, Develop a good working knowledge of pedigrees,
if we all did that, there would soon be no dogs left. canine genetics and breeding techniques. Gain an
Also, if people only got dogs from shelters,
what would become of purebred dogs and our
sport?
Fortunately, I know for a fact that most
successful breeders are responsible dog owners
who care deeply about the conformation health
and temperament of their dogs and the puppies
they produce. These breeders care greatly
about who gets their puppies and do their very
best to support those owners. If all breeders
were like this, then all dogs would be healthier,
better mannered and fewer would end up in
shelters.

Here is a list of the ten tips for novice breeders.
They are provided by some of my colleagues
who are successful preservationist breeders.
Utilizing this advice will save you a great deal
of time effort and money. We encourage you
to read, learn and share.

COMMIT TO BECOMING A LIFE-LONG
LEARNER

Breeders who are committed to being
successful cannot be satisfied with their
current knowledge of the breed and our
sport. Whether breeding their first or next
litter, successful breeders just be committed to
becoming life-long learners. Pam Mandeville
of Banner Wheatens says, “You are never
done learning.” Bearded Collie enthusiast
Cheryl Poliak doubled down on this saying,
“Never stop learning.” You should strive to
learn more and ask questions to increase your
understanding. Set time aside to study; and

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