furma
Posted : 11/13/2006 7:15:27 PM
How did you get started with dog breeding?
I got started because of my love for sledding, racing, and generally being around dogs. I eventually developed goals, but coming into it, I was obviously unsure. My foundation dogs were purchased from a friend of mine who bred sled racing dogs. From there, I perfected what I believe to be an ideal sled dog, with the use of several breeds and traits.
How did you choose what you were going to breed? (I have a very good idea of what I'd like to get involved with, but I'm just curious)
If you mean, what breed, I started out with Siberian Huskies and Malamute/Hound crosses. I researched what breeds the top sled dog kennels used to produce their dogs, and went on from their using what I believed to be perfect specimens.
How did you choose to breed instead of becoming involved with your breed in a different aspect?
I also do rescue, so I chose both paths. Many breeders do, and it's just twice the reward!
Did you have any mentors that proved very helpful to you?
My sledding instructors, and every breeder who helped me along the way. It's a long road, but you meet awesome people on it.
After researching and learning from everyone you could, how did you know you were ready to take on this challenge?
I guess I didn't really know until I actually took it on. I wasn't sure how things would turn out, if they turned out at all. I just hoped for the best, with the knowledge I had, and in the end things were great. I've just gone from there, improving myself and my dogs along the way.
Did you start with a goal when breeding and have you stuck with it?
My original goal was to produce a sled dog that was fast, strong, and intelligent, and had few health problems, high working drive, and wasn't just your average sled dog.
What has been the biggest problems you've faced when breeding and what is the hardest thing about it?
The biggest problem for me is the money involved. I've very often had to dip into savings to build new kennels, buy new equipment, pay vet and food bills, etc.
How do you go about screening potential adopters?
Potential buyers are screened through my own personal checklist of things, and their overall purpose with the dog. Example...do they intend to fence this dog in a kennel, or an open backyard, or do they want to chain the dog? Do they want a pet, or a working dog? Do they have children? What ages if so? Are they new to the sled dog world, or are they experienced?
The list goes on, but if a puppy is found to not suit anyone, it stays with me.
How did you go about acquiring foundation stock?
I bought my first dogs from a breeder friend. We won several sprint races, and placed well in several long-distance races. They were in great health and had excellent drive and ability.
Is breeding rewarding to you, and what's the most rewarding thing about it?
It's extremely rewarding to me. And the most rewarding thing is seeing these puppies grow into spectacular working dogs, and knowing they are with families that are treating them the way they deserve to be treated.
What's the most important things you look for in matching breeding pairs?
The most important thing I look at is health. I just will not breed a dog with health problems that can be passed on to pups.
Any other advice you wish to give me?
Of course, but where to begin?!
It's important to have the money before breeding, for one thing. Unfortunately, it can require quite a bit, especially at first if problems arise. I say, at first, because many novice breeders are often struck hard by the bills.
There's lots more advice, but it could take days!