Just curious on everyone's thoughts...
So, some breeds are really cool, but probably not for most people. Some breeds are def. more social and non-aggressive then others. I know there are individuals, but on the whole one can make generalization about breeds. For example, Akitas are aloof, poodles are smart, German Shepherds are police dogs...
Anyway, I was thinking and though I agree with trying to maintain the original intent of a breed, is it bad to "dumb it down" enough for John Q Public so that it doesn't go extinct?
At what point in time is a cardigan (for example) not a cardigan anymore? Is it when they lose herding ability? Is it when people keep breeding a basset sized cardigan, when the original breed standard topped out at around 32lbs for large males?
Why is a light eye worse then hip dysplasia?
For me, part of my love for this breed comes from their edginess and their intelligence. The looks, while I adore, for me come second.
Not to say I like a clunky cardigan, but I think you can breed some measure of refinement in your line and still maintain that great drivey attitude.
So what about you and your breed? How would you feel if it went extinct? Would you be surprised if it did, or do you think it's versatile enough to make it into the "future?"
Being realistic, SHOULD your breed make it into the future? If so, why?
So, some breeds are really cool, but probably not for most people. Some breeds are def. more social and non-aggressive then others. I know there are individuals, but on the whole one can make generalization about breeds. For example, Akitas are aloof, poodles are smart, German Shepherds are police dogs...
Anyway, I was thinking and though I agree with trying to maintain the original intent of a breed, is it bad to "dumb it down" enough for John Q Public so that it doesn't go extinct?
At what point in time is a cardigan (for example) not a cardigan anymore? Is it when they lose herding ability? Is it when people keep breeding a basset sized cardigan, when the original breed standard topped out at around 32lbs for large males?
Why is a light eye worse then hip dysplasia?
For me, part of my love for this breed comes from their edginess and their intelligence. The looks, while I adore, for me come second.
Not to say I like a clunky cardigan, but I think you can breed some measure of refinement in your line and still maintain that great drivey attitude.
So what about you and your breed? How would you feel if it went extinct? Would you be surprised if it did, or do you think it's versatile enough to make it into the "future?"
Being realistic, SHOULD your breed make it into the future? If so, why?