Breeding Better Dogs

A provocative look at the ‘cult of pedigree’ and an entertaining social history of purebred dogs—“a must-read for all dog lovers” (Booklist). So-called “purebreds” are the mainstay of the dog industry. Expert Michael Brandow argues these aren’t time-honored traditions—but rather commercial inventions of the 19th century that were marketed as status symbols to a growing middle class. Combining social history and consumer studies with sharp commentary, this reveals the sordid history of the dog industry and shows how our brand-name pets pay the price with devastatingly poor health. It includes chapters devoted to popular breeds such as: • Golden Retrievers • Boston Terriers • English Bulldogs • Labrador Retrievers An essential read for animal lovers and animal rights activists everywhere, A Matter of Breeding is a fresh take on the history pedigree dogs and encourages us to love all our furry friends—no matter the coat color or price tag. “If you’re considering welcoming a dog (or two) into your family, read Michael Brandow’s fascinating and eye-opening book before visiting a pet store or breeder.” —Betsy Banks Saul, founder of Petfinder.com

Breeding & Training Versatile Hunting Dogs for Hunting and Hunt Tests is the first book covering both breeding and training of your versatile dog for upland bird hunting, waterfowling, shed hunting, blood tracking, along with numerous human interest chapters. This book starts with the most insightful and complete explanation of what a quality breeding program involves: how to breed better dogs, how to achieve genetic diversity, selecting the best stud dog, reading a pedigree including the different breeding coefficients and how to use Hunt Test information to support breeding decisions. Bob's Cedarwood Pudelpointers (clients purchasing pups) have seen nearly 400 NAVHDA natural ability test entries across North America with a 90% success rate passing this test since he began his breeding program. Also, 175 NAVHDA utility test entries had a 74% success rate. Bob gives outstanding coverage of how to train your dog for any of the Hunt Test organizations offering natural ability tests as well as their utility tests. Of the 106 dogs Bob trained/handled in NAVHDA's natural ability test he earned 81 Prize 1s and of the 49 dogs trained/handled in utility he earned 15 Prize 1s with all dogs prizing. He has paid his dues in the testing arena and his record speaks for itself. A hunter who sees 80 to 100 days annually in the field supports his knowledge to training for hunting wild birds. This book gives excellent advice on training your dog for hunting. Bob covers chukar hunting tactics, waterfowling from a blind, duck searches, tracking wounded big game and off season shed hunting. You do not want to purchase a versatile pup or plan to test your pup in any of the offered hunt tests without reading this book.

This scientifically accurate, wonderfully detailed book, written by a veteran dog breeder, is enhanced by spectacular photos that take the reader through every step of the dog breeding experience. 144 photos. 2 8-page color inserts.

Detailed information for dog breeders.

Breeding Better Dogs: Genetics and Reproduction delves into the biology of managing reproduction in dogs, from mating to whelping and the first few weeks of life. It also delves into the genetic management of dog breeds and selection procedures to aid breeders in producing sound, useful dogs. The book includes: details of managing the genetic structure of breeds and genetic management of individual breeding programs details of managing dogs that are used for breeding details of mating dogs, managing pregnancies and whelping This book is an excellent resource for dog breeders. Providing an accessible approach to a complex subject, Breeding Better Dogs breaks down into digestible chunks the essential information for understanding the subject at a broad level. 5m Books

The story of the thoroughly Victorian origins of dog breeds. For centuries, different types of dogs were bred around the world for work, sport, or companionship. But it was not until Victorian times that breeders started to produce discrete, differentiated, standardized breeds. In The Invention of the Modern Dog, Michael Worboys, Julie-Marie Strange, and Neil Pemberton explore when, where, why, and how Victorians invented the modern way of ordering and breeding dogs. Though talk of "breed" was common before this period in the context of livestock, the modern idea of a dog breed defined in terms of shape, size, coat, and color arose during the Victorian period in response to a burgeoning competitive dog show culture. The authors explain how breeders, exhibitors, and showmen borrowed ideas of inheritance and pure blood, as well as breeding practices of livestock, horse, poultry and other fancy breeders, and applied them to a species that was long thought about solely in terms of work and companionship. The new dog breeds embodied and reflected key aspects of Victorian culture, and they quickly spread across the world, as some of Britain’s top dogs were taken on stud tours or exported in a growing international trade. Connecting the emergence and development of certain dog breeds to both scientific understandings of race and blood as well as Britain’s posture in a global empire, The Invention of the Modern Dog demonstrates that studying dog breeding cultures allows historians to better understand the complex social relationships of late-nineteenth-century Britain.

This unique resource offers a general overview of canine body systems and how each system affects the breeding process. Key topics include nutrition, pharmacology, microbiology, parasitology, vaccinations, genetics, and endocrinology, as well as normal anatomy and disorders of the male and female reproductive systems. It provides illustrations which make important information more readily available and provide more accurate representations of actual clinical appearance. Each chapter begins with frequently asked questions and answers, offering quick and easy access to key information, and ends with a “Test Your Understanding” section that encourages readers to review what they have just read and apply it to real-life situations. The book also includes a first aid appendix which offers quick access to information related to various emergencies, and an appendix covering common problems seen in dogs. New in this second edition are an expanded section on genetics, information about alternative therapies such as herbal therapy and acupuncture, and details specifically for veterinary professionals.

What exactly is a Bernedoodle? It's cross between a Bernese Mountain Dog and a Poodle, and according to fans of this newcomer to the hybrid world, it's downright adorable. Sherry Rupke of SwissRidge Kennels was the first breeder to deliberately cross Bernese Mountain Dogs and Poodles. Rupke loved everything about the gorgeous and sweet-natured Bernese, except for the short-lived breed's genetic propensity for cancer. Plus it sheds. And it can be a little stubborn. Rupke knew from experience that adding Poodle to the hybrid equation could create a intelligent, lively, healthy and low- to non-shedding dog that fits the average person's lifestyle. At least, that's what happens when a breeder takes her work as seriously as Rupke does. Over the past decade, she's built her Bernedoodle program carefully to ensure that each scrupulously health-checked breeding dog has an impeccable pedigree, a calm temperament, and great conformation. In "Bernedoodles: A Head to Tail Guide," Rupke takes readers on a journey from her early days of breeding purebred dogs to establishing her highly successful hybrid program. This comprehensive, easy-to-read and entertaining book covers everything you need to know about this amazing hybrid. Since Bernedoodles can vary significantly in size, build, coloring, and even personality, prospective owners need advice from someone who knows the breed inside out. Who better than the breeder who created them?* Learn how to find a responsible, reputable breeder who can help you choose the Bernedoodle pup that best suits your family and lifestyle. * Educate yourself about the basics, from housebreaking to care and feeding, health and wellness, and grooming. * Discover the best techniques for training Bernedoodles (and any dog) with the help of Rupke's partner, Lucas Mucha. * Enjoy anecdotes and testimonials from owners of SwissRidge Bernedoodles, along with stunning photos. If you're looking for a fun, affectionate, trainable, and allergy-friendly dog that will happily join you for any activity, the Bernedoodle is the hybrid for you-and this book will help you find and raise your new canine best friend.