Firelight Bird Dogs

Firelight Bird Dogs

Wednesday, September 23, 2020

Select for dogs that....

The Canine Athlete: Fourwinds Duck Dogs     Kristina C. Mott, DVM, CVA, CCRT

"Select for dogs that eat."

This was a tip I learned at a sled dog conference a few years back. From a man with PhD in physiology, assistant prof at a veterinary school local to him, and successful sprint team racer.  

Dogs need to eat. Nutrition, fuel, recovery. We travel. A lot (not in 2020!). The dogs will often sleep on the truck or crated. Hotels, campers, new houses or rental cabins. Variety and adventure. 

I can't pull my dog out to hunt or compete and have them nutritionally empty after 2 or 3 days of travel. I need them top notch. 

Yes!!  I am borrowing and sharing the above piece because it is important. Good breeders need to keep the whole dog in mind when they select which dogs to breed. And buyers should be just as selective. No matter how talented or pretty or nice a dog is, dogs should be able to do their jobs and live with their owners without inordinate care and intervention.  

Select for dogs that eat.
Select for dogs that can rest and recharge in the truck between hunts.
Select for dogs that do not seem to always be getting injured on hunts.
Select for dogs who do not need frequent vet care for eye issues after hunts.
Select for dogs whose feet and nails stay strong and healthy.
Select for long life spans.
Select for dogs who can reproduce without AI or cesarean section.
Select for dogs who are good companions so they do not get banished to life in a pen.

- Lynn Dee Galey, Firelight Setters