By Carol Beuchat PhD
THINGS ARE CHANGING!
If you’ve been paying attention, you may have noticed a growing trend: genetic rescue projects are being initiated for several breeds. Some are encouraged or guided by kennel clubs, while others are developing independently. But one thing is clear: change is happening. These changes are poised to transform much of what we know - or think we know - about dog breeding.
If you’ve been paying attention, you may have noticed a growing trend: genetic rescue projects are being initiated for several breeds. Some are encouraged or guided by kennel clubs, while others are developing independently. But one thing is clear: change is happening. These changes are poised to transform much of what we know - or think we know - about dog breeding.
Here’s the truth: these changes are coming whether you choose to participate or not. In fact, it's likely that some of these new breeding practices will eventually become legally mandated. Ignoring this shift won’t be an option if you want to continue in the fancy. That’s why now, more than ever, your breed needs the experience and dedication of responsible breeders like you.
If you’re someone who cares deeply about your breed and the future of purebred dogs, this is your chance to lead the way. The tools and techniques you’ll need to embrace these changes aren’t difficult, just new. Think of it like learning how to use a microwave: unfamiliar at first, but simple once you’ve got the hang of it.
The results? Transformational.
You won’t have to become a geneticist or a disease expert. You’ll be able to focus on what you do best: bringing your expertise, passion, and care to breeding. And with these new tools, you’ll achieve results that were previously unimaginable.
Are you ready to step into this exciting future?
- Larger litters with lower mortality rates
- Healthier, higher-quality dogs with fewer inherited diseases
- Longer lifespans for the dogs you love
- Breeding that is less stressful and more rewarding
You won’t have to become a geneticist or a disease expert. You’ll be able to focus on what you do best: bringing your expertise, passion, and care to breeding. And with these new tools, you’ll achieve results that were previously unimaginable.
Are you ready to step into this exciting future?
WHAT YOU CAN DO NOW
To prepare for these changes, start by learning the basics of population genetics. This foundation will set you up for success as we move into this new era of dog breeding.
The best way to get started is through courses. ICB has online courses designed specifically for breeders like you and are practical, straightforward, and accessible.
By taking this step now, you’ll position yourself as a leader in this transition, helping to guide the modern dog fancy into the future. Instead of struggling to keep up, you’ll be confidently ahead of the curve.
FREE RESOURCES TO GET STARTED
To make it even easier, ICB offers two FREE courses:
Both courses are available under the “Courses” tab on the ICB website. These are excellent starting points.
From there, you can progress to additional courses that form a structured curriculum designed to build your expertise step by step. By diving in now, you’ll ensure a smooth transition into using the cutting-edge tools and practices that are coming.
In the meantime, I’m working on a new course about Genetic Rescue, that will introduce some of the new changes that are coming.
FREE RESOURCES TO GET STARTED
To make it even easier, ICB offers two FREE courses:
- “COI Bootcamp”
- “Basic Population Genetics for Dog Breeders”
Both courses are available under the “Courses” tab on the ICB website. These are excellent starting points.
From there, you can progress to additional courses that form a structured curriculum designed to build your expertise step by step. By diving in now, you’ll ensure a smooth transition into using the cutting-edge tools and practices that are coming.
In the meantime, I’m working on a new course about Genetic Rescue, that will introduce some of the new changes that are coming.
HOW BREED CLUBS CAN LEAD THE WAY
Breed organizations have a unique opportunity to provide leadership during this transition. Clubs can encourage their members to get started with the free ICB courses, ensuring breeders begin to build a strong foundation in the essential concepts.
As clubs progress through the curriculum, I recommend incorporating some of your own breed-specific information, which will make the material even more relevant. I’m happy to help your organization tailor these resources to meet your breed’s unique needs; just reach out and ask.
This is such an exciting time to be a dog breeder! The coming changes promise to revolutionize how we approach breeding, making it more effective, rewarding, and impactful. Celebrate these developments and enjoy being part of this historic process!
The first step is simple: get started now with your education.
Let’s embrace this change together and ensure the future of purebred dogs is bright, healthy, and sustainable!
The first step is simple: get started now with your education.
Let’s embrace this change together and ensure the future of purebred dogs is bright, healthy, and sustainable!
To learn more about the genetics of dogs, check out
ICB's online courses
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Visit our Facebook Groups
ICB Institute of Canine Biology
...the latest canine news and research
ICB Breeding for the Future
...the science of animal breeding
ICB's online courses
***************************************
Visit our Facebook Groups
ICB Institute of Canine Biology
...the latest canine news and research
ICB Breeding for the Future
...the science of animal breeding
