Page 22 - Chow Life - Winter 2025
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understanding of dominant and recessive genes and is unknown. Too often, the things you do not know
how they impact a dog’s strengths and weaknesses or understand regarding breeding will be the things
and the transmission of hereditary diseases. that will handicap your long-term success.
Jen Effler of Powderhorn Alaskan Malamutes Two of the most common breeding topics that
tells me, “It is important to learn structure and are generally not fully understood by breeders are
movement. Type is good but breeding for sound the laws of heredity and applied genetics. These
structure is important.” So, do not forget about two subjects are absolutely crucial to building a
the breed standard, structure and function, and successful breeding program. You must know your
movement and more. dog’s pedigree and everything you can find out
about the dogs in the pedigree. It is important to
Reading books, dog magazines and online articles, have a good working knowledge of dominant and
all can be helpful. Watch some of the breeding recessive genes and how they work. It will also help
videos that re on YouTube. The American Kennel if you understand chromosomal anomalies and
Club’s Canine College has eleven courses for hereditary diseases. These things make up some of
breeders. They are quite informative, easily the most difficult aspects of breeding, but they make
understandable – and they are free of charge. Be a big difference and are important to one’s success as
driven to learn more. Be inquisitive and keep an a breeder.
open mind.
ACCEPT CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM
USE GENETICS AS YOUR GUIDE
Criticism can be hard to take, and I think we can all
It is natural to want to learn things that interest agree on that. It can be very helpful, but it can also
you, the same goes for those things that are not be hurtful if used as a weapon. The advice given
difficult to grasp. One of the most edifying tips in by AKC Breeder of Merit, Lea Robinson, is “Get a
the game is gaining an understanding of that which thick skin on.” This is because it is not until we place
the word “constructive” in front of “criticism” that
anything magical happens.
You are going to make mistakes; you may even
find yourself making the same mistake a
second time. It is normal. Learn from it
and you will eventually achieve mastery.
Unfortunately, far too many novice
breeders make the mistake of not
accepting the advice of a mentor.
Proud owner-handler, Susan
Goodenough, says, “Don’t shut
anyone out, give them a chance
to speak their mind.” Remember,
accurate and constructive criticism
can come from flawed sources.
It can sometimes be challenging to
receive criticism, but you need to
remind yourself that constructive
criticism is not given as a means of
devaluing you, your knowledge or
ability. To the contrary, if someone
offers you feedback in a respectful and
constructive manner, it is because they
care and want to see you succeed. Successful
breeders know what challenges lie ahead of you
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