Von Stephanitz
Posted: Mon Aug 28, 2017 4:55 am
Just finished, this week The German Shepherd Dog in Word and Pictures by Von Stephanitz. The book is a heavy read, but in the chapter on breeding a concept shocked me so much that I have to share it. I will be as brief as I can, and yes this subject would relate directly to the DS as well.
Stephanitz explains, how the temperament of a dog is not just a product of simple genetics. A dogs environment (how it is kept) and badly timed stressors greatly influence an entire litter (before a pregnant bitch whelps).
Also, breeders with large kennels who were breeding for supply and demand, produced a very different dog mentally, than the small breeder who never used a pen, a kennel or tie out. Large breeders tried to reintroduce the stability of the free running countryside dog back into their lines, but we're met with failure. Makes me think about the DS. How far out in left field are Dutchies from where they were meant to be?
Very interesting read with illustrations. Even dog training equipment of the past hasn't changed much. Head halters, too? Yup.
The book is a bit pricey, but educational even in a modern world.
Thanks, C.Miller
Stephanitz explains, how the temperament of a dog is not just a product of simple genetics. A dogs environment (how it is kept) and badly timed stressors greatly influence an entire litter (before a pregnant bitch whelps).
Also, breeders with large kennels who were breeding for supply and demand, produced a very different dog mentally, than the small breeder who never used a pen, a kennel or tie out. Large breeders tried to reintroduce the stability of the free running countryside dog back into their lines, but we're met with failure. Makes me think about the DS. How far out in left field are Dutchies from where they were meant to be?
Very interesting read with illustrations. Even dog training equipment of the past hasn't changed much. Head halters, too? Yup.
The book is a bit pricey, but educational even in a modern world.
Thanks, C.Miller