Comment to 'Bloodlines and Breeding'
  • I have been thinking about this for some time now and still don't know if I will articulate the questions correctly. Anyway here goes. 1. How important is bloodline when it comes to improving the health and functionality of a breed? In breeds such as the Caucasian Ovcharka, Central Asian Ovcharka, American Pit Bull Terrier and the Neapolitan Mastiff, I often hear a significant amount of importance placed on bloodlines where breeding is considered. 2. So, does adherence to bloodlines reduces the breeds vitality by narrowing its gene pool? If we consider the dogs’ adherence to the standard and try to move closer to the ideal dog as described by the standard, I think that would better serve the breed. 3. So, would we better serve the breed based on the attributes of the individual dog regardless of bloodlines when we consider any breeding. and finally. 4. Is the adherence to bloodline breeding ruining any of the breeds mentioned above? Please reply to this post openly and honestly and don't use it as an opportunity to belittle anyone or breed.