Methods

    First let's look at why the point of breeding?  Different breeds of dogs were created for different functions.  We have drafters, drovers, packers, herders, retrievers, guard dogs, and companion dogs just to name a few.  Swissies, being a working dog, were bred as a generalist, meaning they can do many functions.  Originally bred for droving, drafting, and guarding, the modern Swissy can now do all that plus packing, tracking, and pet therapy.

    The entire point in breeding is to preserve these abilities and instincts.  In order to maintain the integrity of a breed, it must still be able to function for the reasons originally bred.  Let's break this down into sections now - there are 4 different areas of consideration when breeding: Health, Temperament, Structure, and Type.  These are not necessarily listed in order of importance, but in order of priority to me.

It is imperative that all 4 areas are given priority.  To justify breeding a dog because it has decent structure is irresponsible.  Proper structure alone does not make a Swissy nor does it improve the breed.  Please take consideration of ALL 4 areas when breeding.  

HEALTH    TEMPERAMENT    STRUCTURE    TYPE

There are also differences in the philosophy of breeding. 

1.      Since the Swissy gene pool is so limited now, we should breed all that we can to increase the genetic variance in the pool. 

2.      Because the Swissy gene pool is so small and yet full of so many negative qualities, we should only breed the best of the best.

Obviously, I hold the second opinion.  We cannot improve by excessive breeding sub par dogs.

  Some people will make excuses or lax the standards in order to justify their breedings.  Too often we hear that “Well, so and so breeds fly biting, why can’t I breed a mild dysplasia.”  Just because others are breeding crap, it does not mean that it is okay.  Two bad breedings do not make for a good breeding.  We should always err on the side of caution.  If we cannot determine if a health or temperament problem is due to genetics or environment, neuter and spay anyways.  Let’s not take that chance.  Also, good breeders know better than to let accidents happen.  If a breeder repeatedly has accidental breedings, it is just an excuse to practice improper breeding practices. 

  Breeding should improve the breed in these 4 areas, not just one.  Breeders will often say, "but she has great structure" or "but she passed her hips" or "because I love him, he is my pet".  This type of reasoning is just a way to allow the breeder to feel better about breeding animals with many problems and only one good quality.  Those many other problems will be passed on.  Is it worth it to breed a small type-less female who doesn't/cannot pull, has extreme temperament problems in the entire litter and epilepsy close in the line just to pass on semi-decent structure? You decide.   

    I do not believe in breeding just to breed.  To breed, a dog or bitch should have a lot to offer the gene pool with minimal faults (good health clearances, impeccable temperament, nice type, but maybe a little eastie westie or a asymmetrical markings).  Breeding should also be like make up: a little to accentuate the good characteristics but too much is just plain awful.   In addition, if a certain sire or dam repeatedly produces health or temperament problems, isn't it common sense to stop breeding the dog?  Do it for the breed, not for the greed. 

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