The Dog World: Ins and Outs ? - Page 1

Hello everyone. Allow me to introduce myself. I have owned a west showline red/black German Shepherd in the past and had a ton of fun training him in SCH, obedience, and conformation. I purchased him at 8 weeks old and he ended up having some genetic health issues that I'd love to avoid as much as possible in the future. My passion for these dogs was born with me and I plan to make a future out of it after about 4-6 years of college. I am a new member to the forum although I've browsed if for some years now looking for ideas on future dogs. My questions to you all are as follows:

While I am away studying at college, what resources do you suggest I look into? I'm interested to know if there are any dog books (breeding/showing/training/etc.) that you've found that might help others.

What kennels do you think are "on top" so to speak currently that I might be interested in the future to place a bid on a puppy, OR do you suggest that I purchase a trained dog to begin my career?

When it comes to breeding, what do you think about training a bitch purchased as a puppy and breeding with a stud dog around 3 years old VS. purchasing them both as adults from different kennels to breed?

What do you know on imports?

On the layout of kennels, do you know of any resources? (kennels in the midwest region of the U.S. that I could visit or photos online)

These are just a few of the many questions about thoughts I've had but any other advice, tips, knowledge that you have would be greatly appreciated. Thanks so much and have a wonderful day!

What do you want your career to be? Breeding, titling, training? Do you want to continue with IPO? WL or SL dogs?

"When it comes to breeding, what do you think about training a bitch purchased as a puppy and breeding with a stud dog around 3 years old VS. purchasing them both as adults from different kennels to breed?"

Doesn't matter, as long as dogs are breedworthy.
My advice-
Go find a club in the sport you are interested in. Read up on operant conditioning. Michael Ellis Dave Kroyer DVDs are nice.
Too early to plan out breeding. Find a good breeder to mentor. Share your location if comfortable, others may be able to direct you to one locally. Learn about the breed from proper examples, figure out what you like/dislike and come up with breeding goals for later down the road.
Good luck!

bump