When we first started in Mastiffs, we were of the firm belief that the only Mastiff worth breeding was a top winning dog. While we still believe that showing and championing a dog is important - it shows that the breeder/owner is aware of how their dog matches up to the competition, is more aware of their own dog's strengths & weaknesses and has received independent opinions of that dog's suitability (or "typiness") through the judging process - we have come to the conclusion that there is a lot more at stake!!
Who cares how many ribbons sit on the wall of a dog with an unstable temperament, or one producing any number of serious, potentially debilitating problems? The dog who's puppies are dying before the age of 5 from cancer, probably isn't the healthiest dog to use if you want a puppy who will live a long healthy life. Even allergies & epilepsy appear to have genetic components - and really - what's most important to you? A healthy family companion who lives well past the age of 10, or a dog from famous top lines who has to be put down due to crippling/genetic disease?
Who cares how many ribbons sit on the wall of a dog with an unstable temperament, or one producing any number of serious, potentially debilitating problems? The dog who's puppies are dying before the age of 5 from cancer, probably isn't the healthiest dog to use if you want a puppy who will live a long healthy life. Even allergies & epilepsy appear to have genetic components - and really - what's most important to you? A healthy family companion who lives well past the age of 10, or a dog from famous top lines who has to be put down due to crippling/genetic disease?
When we choose a puppy for ourselves, we base our picks on the following criteria and urge you to consider the same:
1. Temperament - Mastiffs are meant to be regal, courageous, docile and good-natured! Is an aggressive, scared, or shy Mastiff really on the top of your "perfect dog list"?2. Health - Mastiffs are prone to a number of different health issues, many of which can be virtually eliminated by careful breeding & health testing. Do you really want to have to feed your dog medications for his whole life? What about chronic allergies? What about seizures, heart or vision problems, or cystinuria (bladder stones)?
3. Structure - Large, massive, symmetrical, and well-knit frame without a tendency towards "looseness" in movement. A dysplastic, arthritic or chronically lame dog is unfair to everyone involved, especially the dog. No one should be breeding dogs with hip or elbow dysplasia!
4. Type - Do the parents fit the Breed Standard for the country they come from? What about the Canadian Kennel Club/Canadian Mastiff Club standards? Do they look like Mastiffs?
5. Lineage - What is the lifespan of parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins? What problems run in those lines? If you're looking at possibly breeding in the future, what do the dogs in the pedigree have to offer?
6. Colour - While there is nothing wrong with wanting a puppy of a certain colour, please do remember that colour is only skin deep - what lays beneath it determines how healthy, sound and sane your dog will be, and ultimately the quality of life your dog will share with you and your family!
Bendegeit Females
Bendegeit Males
Retired
