The successful breeder leaves as little as possible to chance. Knowing what she hopes to accomplish with every breeding, she plans each litter meticulously. She studies all available options to determine the probable effects on present offspring and future generations. Although she may at times be forced to compromise, giving up one quality to gain another, her every decision is based on a standard of excellence and always with the well being of the breed in mind.
Understanding that every dog will have faults, the very best a breeder can aim for is the continuous improvement of her breeding stock. To this end, each breeder will have different priorities, based on the strengths and weaknesses of their dogs. These will be major factors in determining goals while the level of perfection to which the breeder aspires will determine her success.
The Group winning Daughter
With performance being the yardstick by which the quality of a dog is measured, a large part of a breeder's goals will involve competition - whether in conformation, working trials or both. The breeder brings to this arena the same standards she has in her breeding program and her success in competition reflects those standards.
When starting out as a novice breeder, you will have a greater chance of success by setting early goals and deciding to what extent you will become involved. As you gain experience and knowledge and achieve success, your involvement may or may not increase but your goals will ultimately change.
Although they should present a challenge, goals must always be realistic. To avoid discouragement, you must aim for something that is within your reach. It is therefore essential for you to know exactly what is required in reaching various objectives. Talk to breeders who consistently have quality animals and those who excel in competition. Ask about their priorities, the time they devote to their dogs and the sacrifices they have made.
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