How long have you been involved in your breed? I started out catching feral hogs with the breed around 1961. I had at least one until 1979, when I started breeding them and using them on my farm to herd and to keep coyotes and bobcats away from the livestock. List three words you feel best describe your breed. Loyal, trustworthy, biddable. In your opinion, what physical characteristic defines your breed the most? Strength and agility. I know that’s two, but they are equal in my opinion. In your opinion, which behavioral characteristic defines your breed the most? Loyalty and willingness to please. What is the largest false impression your breed gives? That of a large muscular dog that presents a danger to humans. What should breeders be most concerned about today? Temperament! There are too many dogs that are being bred for aggressiveness by the wrong social element. These are the ones that the public view as the norm for the breed when just the opposite is true. Is your standard sufficient? If you do not feel it is sufficient, briefly list changes you would like to see made. The standard needs some clarification in a few areas. The one I think that needs it most is in the section that should define balance and proportion. The breed should not be overdone nor oversized and should be athletic. What counsel would you like to give to newcomers? Study every aspect of the breed. Do not start off with more than one dog. Learn what is required to be a responsible owner and to keep your dog safe and secure. These dogs are escape artists. Socialize your dog from a very young age and keep doing it. Do not be in a rush to breed your dog until you are sure it is worthy of breeding. What is the single most charming attribute of your breed? They are clownish puppies all their life. Do you prefer your breed judged moving or standing? It makes no difference. An outstanding dog is easy to spot, but soundness is important, so movement does have its importance. What is the most common judging mistake in your breed? Putting up cumbersome, overdone, non-athletic specimens! I could write a book on this. What quality lends itself particularly well to the show ring? The breed’s love of doing anything with its master and willingness to please. Presence. Who would you like to see judge your National Specialty? Any long-time breeder/judge that is respected by his/her peers. |
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