I've been following this post and think it's a very interesting topic. I personally have biewers and am new to breeding. As a labor and delivery nurse and one who loves genetics, I wanted to pass this link on about a documentary that is coming out to the states soon. Most of us do want what is best for the breed, but I believe the differences lie in our opinions of what is best.
I personally have no opinion about a particular breeder. I do, however, believe we should be very careful that our personal quests for beauty do not out weigh the overall health of any breed. The documentary is a little long, but well worth it. As I watched what some breeders have done to promote genetic hysteria and heartache within their own breeds, it made me pause and take a look at what is most important to me as a new breeder.
I came away with many more questions needing answered before beginning my program and I think questions are a great place to start. I look at my beautiful little girls cuddled in my lap and want them to produce healthy, strong, babies for generations to enjoy. I don't want a beautiful, fraile (sp?), unhealthy dog that wins in the ring, but at the end of the day has a miserable life and promotes the beginning of the end for this breed.
All that said, I'm coming to find out there are many interpretations for the phrase "for the love of the breed". Great mentors, genetic testing, and trying to breed to correct potential health issues are paramount for all of us who love these precious little dogs. Again, this isn't a dig at any one breeder, just something I think we should all take a good, long, look at whether be are beginning or have been breeders for 20+ yrs. Thank you all for your comments, it helps me put some things in perspective.
Potentially Explosive BBC Doc on Purebreds Set to Air Stateside - Paw Nation
For the love of the breed...
Heather, Lizzy, & Sydni