The breeding of ‘like-to-like’ type is an approach utilized by some of the best dog breeders throughout history, and as such Zaliamstaff follows this same approach to their breeding program.
Confidence in Type
When a breeder selects an individual to retain in the gene pool, they are showing confidence in its correctness of type. To reproduce that type in the resulting offspring, you need to select a mate of a similar type, and one that compliments structurally for that individual.
To explain further, an educated Breeder would understand that correct is not produced by mating two extremes together. A dog that lacks structurally in one area should be mated to a dog that excels in that shortcoming, keeping in mind in our breed, that moderation is eminent. The same goes for temperament, soundness of mind is paramount in both parents!
'Like Begets Like'
‘Like begets like’ is the creed of successful breeders throughout the dog world. As responsible breeders, we are not looking to make changes, but instead preserve the qualities a line already has. For example, by reducing genetic variation of type traits and extreme structural differences.
Where there is type, there is pedigree!
A dogs pedigree is a valuable breeding tool, suppling a lot of beneficial information - provided the reader has researched the dogs who appear in it at least five generations back. If a breeder does not know the dogs personally, they will research them. This can include finding photos, videos or simply asking older breeders that were around during that time. It is a great way of building up a comprehensive picture of their dog’s ancestry.
Studying pedigrees over a period of time will enable the breeder to assess what faults and virtues lie behind their breeding stock. It will also help to establish which dogs were responsible for producing them. This also gives you an idea of the level of line-breeding and consequently determine which dogs have the greatest influence on their own.
Knowing this information puts the breeder into a position of knowing which dogs they can double-up on or to continue breeding from, and which ones they should not.
Zaliamstaff Amstaff Breeding Philosophy
Zaliamstaff are committed to breeding for the betterment and longevity of the American Staffordshire Terrier (Amstaff) breed in New Zealand.
Our show team has proven to be consistent in the ring, their show results are a testament to our ongoing devotion to the breed. If you have a questions about Amstaff pedigrees and how we select dogs for breeding, please get in touch.
3 Generation Pedigree