Did You Know? – Your “Breeder Instincts” Will Save You!

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144 – October, 2025

By Michael Canalizo

Anyone who follows my writing or has had conversations with me will surely remember the words: “Trust your Breeder Instincts.” They just might be the most important four words in the lexicon of the sport of purebred dogs. Every success or defeat can be traced back to how one used those words.

I (and I know I’m not alone in this) fondly remember hanging on every word that streamed out of a great breeder’s and/or judge’s lips. Most times the words flowed freely without forethought, because those masters lived with convictions of their beliefs in the quest to preserve, maintain and, above all, “honor” the standard of their respective breed. I can’t stress enough the importance of this belief, and mission, for everyone–be it an entry-level exhibitor or a revered and successful breeder and/or handler.

So, you’ve ventured into the world of AKC dog shows. Maybe your first purchase of an AKC dog was made with an interest in showing and/or competing in one of the many AKC performance areas. Fast-forward to the decision to continue your involvement with the next step: breeding a litter on your own. You’ve done the research, the health tests, and worked closely with the breeder from whom you bought your dog or bitch. Soon after the “blessed event” there are decisions to be made.

Keep in mind that breeding dogs is almost equal parts science and luck. You might think your limited (but expanding) knowledge of all the standard’s nuances is not absolute or qualified—but actually, you might be wrong. That little pup that “makes you look at him” is letting you know he has something that sets him apart from the others, and makes him better. Almost every great dog I have brought into the world had that impact at a momentary glance–whether that glance came from a novice or a veteran master breeder. Those are instinctive reactions that occur organically, subliminally, and unexpectedly.

Click here to read the complete article
144 – October, 2025

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Posted by AnthonyA on Oct 16 2025. Filed under Current Articles, Featured. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. Both comments and pings are currently closed.