When selecting a stud dog, many breeders mistakenly prioritize show records over true breeding merit. Choosing the right stud dog involves considering various factors beyond just accolades in the ring. While accolades in the ring may seem impressive, relying heavily on a stud dog’s show success can lead to poor breeding outcomes, especially when those wins are rooted in favoritism rather than quality.
The Problem with Choosing Stud Dogs Based on Show Records
It’s an unfortunate reality that a significant portion of dog shows—some estimate as high as 60%—are influenced by bias, favoritism, and point trading among breeder-judges and exhibitors. This creates an illusion of excellence, with certain dogs winning repeatedly not due to superior conformation or health, but because of their owner’s prominence or connections.
A high-profile stud dog winning under these circumstances does not guarantee that he will improve your breeding program. In fact, many of these “popular” sires are average in quality, yet they’re bred excessively, resulting in widespread propagation of faults like incorrect eye shape, eye color, tail sets, or structural issues.
Real-World Impact: Breeding Based on Reputation, Not Reality
A young breeder recently asked why every pup in her 15-month-old litter had a “gay tail” (tails carried improperly high). The sire was a highly publicized, frequently used stud dog with a stellar show reputation. However, she’d never seen him in person. His photos and wins led her to believe he was an ideal match. Unfortunately, this decision led to disappointing results that will affect her program for generations. Choosing the right stud dog should always be based on thorough evaluation and not only on photos and reputation.
The Importance of In-Person Evaluation
Never use a stud dog without seeing him in person. Photos and videos can be carefully curated to show only the best moments. Choosing the right stud dog means understanding that a dog with a confident stance in his backyard might be a completely different animal in the show ring—timid, tail-tucked, lacking drive. These traits can be inherited and affect the temperament and show potential of future litters.
Know the Pedigree and Its History
Understanding the pedigree behind your potential stud dog is critical. Inbreeding or linebreeding without awareness of hereditary issues can lead to problems like entropion, bad bites, epilepsy or poor temperament. For example, a dog known to carry entropion was used on both sides of a litter’s pedigree, which resulted in 6 out of 8 pups with the condition.
Many newer breeders are unaware of hidden flaws in pedigrees, especially those that happened years ago. For instance, a well-known stud dog widely used in modern lines carries the legacy of a dam with a severe parrot mouth. This kind of detail is only known to those with deep, long-term involvement in the breed.
Pro Tip: Reach out to seasoned breeders to ask about potential stud dogs and their lineage. Secrets rarely stay hidden, and long-time breeders often know critical information that can help guide your decision.
Breed Type to Type
Breeding Labradors (or any breed) requires an understanding of type. You should aim to breed type to type—that is, dogs with similar structure, expression, and temperament—especially if you’re not fully confident in analyzing type yourself. Studying pedigrees and choosing dogs with related lines can help, or you can seek guidance from experienced mentors. Choosing the right stud dog involves understanding how type will influence the offspring.
Work with Reliable, Honest Stud Dog Owners
This cannot be emphasized enough: find stud dog owners who value breed integrity and legacy over profit. A responsible stud dog owner will tell you if their dog is not the right match for your bitch. Honesty and communication are key. A stud owner who takes the time to discuss pedigrees, potential outcomes, and possible pitfalls is invaluable to your breeding success. When choosing the right stud dog, working with reliable owners is crucial.
Years ago, I worked with a fantastic stud dog who produced multiple champions for us. While the stud service was smooth and professional, the owners were unwilling to share any insight or advice, answering questions with curt responses. Despite the dog’s success, their lack of collaboration was a dealbreaker, and I never worked with them again.
Final Thoughts
To build a successful, ethical breeding program, choose stud dogs based on their actual merit, health, temperament, and ability to improve your lines—not based on manipulated show records or flashy advertising. Ask questions, see the dog in person, and speak to experienced breeders. Knowledge and discernment are your best tools for choosing the right stud dog.
Good luck with your breeding journey—choose wisely, and always breed with purpose.
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