“Take this trouble for me: Make sure my shepherd dog remains a working dog, for I have struggled all my life long for that aim." - Max v. Stephanitz
My Guiding Principles
Preserve GSD Breed Standard: The breed standard serves as a blueprint for the desired physical traits, temperament, and abilities of a particular breed. Adhering to this standard ensures that these defining characteristics are preserved from one generation to the next.
Depend on a Corporate Job for my Income, Not My Dogs: Dog breeding is the work of a dog lover and cannot be a profession. I am a breeder on a small scale, one who works with one or two females, which is the most suitable breeder for service dogs because I can care for my breeding and their progeny to such an extent that I can produce sound, strong animals that can be trained. Breeding in quantities becomes a curse to the breeder, because it leads him along the wrong path and deprives the real joy in breeding. Finally, it leads to breeding for business considerations only, which means the dog then becomes a business commodity, and is bred and treated as such.
Leverage the Database of the Verein für Deutsche Schäferhunde (SV) e.V. The SV collects extensive data on German Shepherd dogs, including health records, pedigrees, genetic information and performances. This data is crucial for monitoring and addressing breed-specific health issues, allowing breeders to make informed decisions to improve overall breed health. By analyzing pedigrees and genetic data, the SV can assess the genetic diversity within the German Shepherd breed. Understanding genetic diversity helps prevent the accumulation of harmful genetic mutations and promotes the preservation of a healthy and robust gene pool.
Evaluate Performance through Observation: Study and interpret the performance data for German Shepherds participating in various activities such as conformation shows, obedience trials, and working trials. This information helps evaluate the working abilities and overall performance of my dogs, contributing to my breeding programs which prioritizes functionality and working aptitude.
Participate in Organizations that Support the Breed: Obtain educational resources that cover topics such as breed health, genetics, training, and responsible breeding practices, promoting the dissemination of knowledge within the German Shepherd community.
"Breeding at a large scale and in a kennel is the ruin of all sound shepherd breeding... A large collection of shepherd dogs is a contradiction in terms.