This really is a hot topic issue for me. I hate "breeding" of all types. Most dog breeders breed their dogs to some sort of "standards" usually AKC. This does not mean it is good for the dog’s health. A good example of this is the Rhodesian ridgeback, the ridgeback is actually a genetic flaw in the dog, yet many of those born without the ridgeback are simply disposed of.
I bought my dog, Tasha 2.0, off the internet. I spoke to the owner who lied to me. Tasha (1) my first American Cocker Spaniel who was my service animal, was AKC from great champion stock who's owner I've known for years, was healthy throughout her whole life. She was a trained service animal who saved my life on more than one occasion. I was able to travel the world with her alongside me. We especially enjoyed our Disney vacations together. When she crossed the rainbow bridge I was devastated. Being a senior and disabled on a fixed income I could not afford $20,000 to spend on a trained service animal. So I thought I found an AKC Cocker Spaniel who I could have trained to assist me. What I got was a dog who after just 2 months of owning her showed signs of knee dysplasia.
I was devastated over this, if she could not climb stairs she could not be my service animal. Tasha 2.0 is still with me, like me we both have medical issues, I’ve come to terms with the fact that we can’t do everything that I want, but I love her as she is and she loves me. You can check out her full story at http://Tashas-Health.com be sure to check out her documents and pedigree, it’s really interesting. Yes she comes from Missouri.
Why can’t people breed dogs to improve the health of the breed, and not how the dog looks? I believe all breeders should have to be certified, with a course on basic genetics. Yes there are some good breeders out there that produce good looking dogs, but are they are not doing it to improve the breed they usually do it for the money. To me, if you have more than 5 breeding females you are a commercial breeder. Breed quality, not quantity!
