Re: [PyrNet-L] breeding question

[Dancingpyr@aol.com]

You said the Pyr has good temperment, but not the best in confirmation.  You 
also mentioned that the pups wouldn't be sold, but kept as livestock 
guardians.  This may be fine, but has this woman considered adopting a rescue 
pyr?  Not all pyrs that come into rescue are "couch potatoes".  Some are true 
working dogs, that for some reason are out of a job.  Also, does this woman 
realise that just because she has a litter of pups, that, first, not all of 
the dogs will be suitable as livestock guardians, and second, it takes time 
for the dogs to mature and become effective as livestock guardians?  Also, 
does she realise that Pyrs can often have 10 - 12 pups in a litter?  Does she 
really want that many dogs, and can she adequately maintain them?

If she is serious in breeding this bitch, she should find the best stud dog 
possible as a match to the bitch's characteristics.  Careful evaluation of 
the dog's characteristics should be made.  Will the dog's characteristics 
compliment the bitch's.  Remember, you are looking to IMPROVE with this 
breeding -- not just produce more dogs.

Then, of course, are both dogs in good health, have they had hip x-rays and 
eye checks, are they fully current on vaccinations and worming, etc, etc.  

When we got our first Pyrs, we had the idea of breeding. BUT after looking at 
other Pyrs, studying the standard, and most of all, helping with rescue, our 
ideas have changed greatly.  First of all, we've spayed our oldest female 
(great guardian, but definitely pet quality when it came to confirmation) and 
our oldest male (who by the way needs only a Major to be a champion) is being 
done on April 3.  He is "our first boy", but we have no intention of breeding 
him either (has some "funny" issues that we don't want to continue).

I hope she thinks long and hard before jumping off into this venture.

Robyn
dancingpyr@aol.com
Taylors, SC