What is a “Preservation Breeder”?

Preservation Breeders: Preserving the Legacy of Purebred Dogs

Preservation breeders play a crucial role in maintaining the integrity and legacy of purebred animals. In a world where crossbreeding and hybridization are becoming increasingly popular, these dedicated individuals are committed to preserving and promoting the unique characteristics, traits, and lineage of specific breeds. In this blog post, we will explore the significance of preservation breeders and the impact they have on the future of purebred animals.

Preservation breeders are driven by a passion for maintaining the original qualities and attributes that define a particular breed. They meticulously study and adhere to breed standards, ensuring that the animals they breed stay true to these standards. By preserving the heritage of purebred animals, they protect the historical significance and cultural value that these breeds hold.

What We Do

Genetic Conservation:
In addition to preserving breed standards, preservation breeders are also focused on conserving genetic diversity within the breed. They use available genetic and other testing to discover potential health problems. They understand that a limited gene pool can lead to health issues and reduced vitality. To combat this, preservation breeders carefully select breeding pairs to ensure a wide range of genetic variation. This practice helps prevent the loss of important traits and contributes to the overall health and longevity of the breed.

Promoting Breed-specific Traits:
Preservation breeders are champions for the unique traits and characteristics that make each breed special. Knowing and understanding the purpose and inherent traits of the breed help them determine dogs that have the desired traits that should be part of the breed moving forward. Whether it’s the retrieving abilities of a Chesapeake Bay Retriever or the gentle nature of a Golden Retriever, these breed enthusiasts work hard to maintain and promote these distinct attributes. They understand that these traits are not just physical but also behavioral, and they aim to produce animals that embody the breed’s true essence.

Education and Outreach:
Preservation breeders are often involved in educating the public about their chosen breed. They participate in dog shows, breed-specific events, and community outreach programs to showcase the beauty and value of purebred animals. They often belong to the breed Parent Club, and keep up with the latest information about the breed and its issues. They dispel myths and misconceptions surrounding purebred animals while highlighting the benefits of preserving breed heritage.

Challenges for the Future:

Preservation breeders face several challenges in their quest to maintain and promote purebred animals. One of the main challenges is the declining interest and popularity of purebred animals. As crossbreeds and mixed-breed pets gain popularity, the demand for purebreds decreases. This results in a smaller pool of enthusiasts and potential breeders, making the work of preservation breeders even more crucial.

However, preservation breeders remain hopeful and are actively working towards securing the future of purebred animals. They are adapting to the changing times by utilizing social media platforms to educate and engage with a wider audience. By highlighting the unique qualities and benefits of purebred animals, they hope to create a renewed interest in preserving breed heritage.

Preservation breeders are the unsung heroes of the animal world, dedicating their lives to preserving and enhancing the legacy of purebred animals. Their passion, expertise, and commitment to breed standards and genetic conservation are vital for maintaining the diversity and integrity of specific breeds. Through their efforts, they ensure that future generations can continue to appreciate the beauty and the unique qualities that purebred animals bring to our lives.

5 Weeks Slammer x Dicca Pups

5-week photos of the Slammer X Dicca Litter.  Boys Available. 

All Breeders are Not the Same

All Breeders are Not the Same

Lets get Real...about Breeders

Not all breeders are created equal. There are good breeders and bad breeders, and it is important to do your research before you choose a breeder.

A good breeder will be knowledgeable about the breed, health testing their dogs and socializing their puppies. A good breeder will have just as many questions for you as you have for them. 

A bad breeder will be more interested in making a sale and less interested in the welfare of their dogs.

 

Different types of Breeders:

Preservation breeder: is dedicated to preserving the genetic diversity of a particular breed. They do this by carefully selecting the parents of their puppies, with the goal of producing dogs that are healthy, sound, and true to the breed standard.

Hobby breeder: These breeders are typically passionate about their breed and are dedicated to producing healthy, well-socialized puppies. They may only breed a litter or two per year and take great care in selecting the parents.

Professional breeders: These breeders are also dedicated to producing healthy, well-socialized puppies, but they may breed more frequently than hobby breeders. They often have a larger kennel and may show their dogs in conformation events.

Backyard breeders: These breeders may be motivated by profit or just may not have the knowledge or experience necessary to breed healthy dogs. These are often the “oops” litters and may be mixed breeds or even unknown parentage.  They may also keep their dogs in less-than-optimum conditions.

Puppy mills:  These are large-scale commercial breeding operations that often prioritize profit over the welfare of the dogs. Puppy mill dogs are often kept in cramped, unsanitary conditions and may be subjected to neglect or abuse. Many of the puppies in Pet Stores come from these “Wholesale Breeders”.

Doing your Research

It is important to do your research before choosing a dog breeder, as the type of breeder you choose can have a significant impact on the health and well-being of your puppy. Here are some tips for finding a responsible breeder:

  • Check with the Breed’s Parent Club for recommendations on how to find a reputable Breeder.
  • Ask your veterinarian for recommendations.
  • Do an online search for breeders in your area.
  • Visit the breeder’s kennel in person. (Some Bredder will not welcome this approach, see this article for why.)
  • Ask to see the parents of the puppies. Sometimes only one parent will be on site, and it causes stress to the Dam for strangers to be around her pups. 
  • Ask about the breeder’s health testing practices.
  • Get everything in writing, including any health guarantee.

By following these tips, you can increase your chances of finding a responsible breeder who will provide you with a healthy, well-socialized puppy.

Good Dog Good Breeder-Eska Creek Chesapeakes

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