Originally Posted by
labguy
Only partially correct.
Some breeds (purebreds) have a very deep and varied gene pool that can be used to insure that inbreeding (and the associated problems) are unlikely to occur. This breeding program requires ethical breeders, who properly research lineage and the associated traits both good and bad, to help insure a solid, defect free, progeny.
Conversely, some breeds and lines have a very shallow gene pools that severely limit the breeding choices. Factoring in human ignorance, greed and arrogance and you have a recipe for some pretty screwed up offspring.
“Silver” labs are a prime example of what happens when low life, greedy and unethical people are involved in breeding.
This is why purebred, registered dogs, from responsible, knowledgeable, and ethical breeders can usually produce some solid and reliable examples that exhibit the traits and characteristics valued for that particularly breed.
Breeding purebred, registered dogs gives the breeder a 5 or 7 generation pedigree to make proper and ethical choices for their breeding program.
This is what irritates me to no end when people throw two dogs together to produce a litter and don’t have a clue what the genetic and hereditary makeup of the parents are.....except for....”hey man, these are two pretty good dogs....I know both parents.....should produce some good pups.”
So Spy my friend. From someone who is always encouraging others to educate themselves and open their minds to learning something new, I encourage you to follow your own sage advice about dogs and breeding.