Great Dane Club of America - Breeder Education 2009

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Question #3
Would you breed to a dog who had, and consistently produced with various bloodlines, the one outstanding feature you felt you needed in your breeding program even if he had a fault you hated?

Response:
If I felt my bitch was strong enough to combat "the fault I hate" I would be good-to-go.

Response:
No, I wouldn't do the breeding. I would not want to risk perpetuating a fault I hated. If I can't look at it, I can't live with it. Either find another stud dog or forget it.

Response:
If said male consistently produced what I needed and I felt my bitch was strong enough in pedigree to overcome the fault he had...yes, I would consider using him at stud. But I would only do this if we are talking structural faults, never with health issues.

Response:
Yes, and I believe I have. But, I would not breed my bitch to this dog if my bitch had the same fault that I disliked so much in the dog. It would also be helpful to know some of the ancestors to know how in bred this fault may be, and to know your line and the strength your line may have in not producing it.

Response:
I would. I feel it would be worth the risk to get what I needed. Breeding is a chance and if by chance I got what I need in that breeding, it would be worth it.

Response:
I read a piece a while ago whereby the author (a well known breeder and judge) stated "don't throw the baby out with the bath water." I concur and would hope that Mother Nature would cooperate and emphasize the quality I desired.

Response:
Yes if my bitch did not also possess the fault I hated!

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed by breeders in response to questions of general interest reflect their opinions based on their individual experiences within the breed and are not necessarily the opinion of the GDCA. It is imperative that anyone with a Dane puppy that shows signs of illness or injury obtain an immediate examination and diagnosis by a veterinarian.

Recommendations or ideas expressed by the breeders in Breeder's Ed. should be discussed with your veterinarian in detail. It is strongly recommended that a veterinarian experienced with Great Danes and other large breeds be contacted whenever possible.

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