Most breed club standards limit the amount of white on the boxer.
Dog breeds develop by breeding similar dogs until a certain type develops, then closing the studbook to new dogs, which limits the gene pool. Inbreeding, using closely related dogs, and line breeding, using less closely related dogs, limits the gene pool further. The purpose of line breeding is generally to create dogs with a certain type of look, movement, genetic health traits and temperament, according to breeder Melissa D. Newman. Line breeding boxers requires you to examine each aspect of the dogs' pedigrees to increase the chance of producing the desired results while avoiding unwanted traits.
Instructions
1. Evaluate the pedigrees to determine the inbreeding coefficient, or the closeness of shared genes, to obtain the desired percentage. Consider using one of the online pedigree programs or databases to compute the degree for you, suggests John B. Armstrong, biology and genetics professor and canine health researcher. Breeding first cousins with limited line breeding results in 12.5 percent shared genes with only 6.25 percent for second cousins, according to the University of Missouri Extension. Breed second cousins with line breeding or inbreeding in their pedigrees to produce increased shared genes.
2. List the health clearings and known health-related problems in the pedigree of both dogs, particularly noting related dogs in both pedigrees since they potentially double problems or clearance potential. Consider aspects such as joint, thyroid, bite, hearing and heart issues. Avoid breeding dogs with known issues in both pedigrees. Obtain the testing prior to breeding, including hip and elbow dysplasia, hypothyroidism, aortic valve disease and heart disorders, recommends the American Boxer Club.
3. Use pedigree information, such as provided by the American Kennel Club, to determine coat colors of each generation in order to evaluate carried genes of brindle boxers. While two red or fawn boxers only produce reds, a brindle dog may produce red or brindle. Select at least one brindle dog if you want the possibility of brindles. Select dogs with many brindles in the pedigree to increase the odds.
4. Proper ear set on the boxer enhances conformation evaluations.
Evaluate the movement and physical appearance of the dogs and related dogs to determine if the match might produce desired results, advises Newman. Avoid breeding two dogs that possess unwanted characteristics related to issues such as gait, body or bone structure, ear set, size and markings, since line breeding increases the risk of producing shared problems.
5. Evaluate previous puppies of both dogs to determine if they are similar to or different than the parent. Look at litter mates of each dog to determine if the litter contains similar looking dogs. Consider using a different dog if either one produces or comes from litters with unwanted qualities or different from expectations based on the pedigree and looks.
Related posts
Breeding should only be done to improve the breed.Breeding dogs takes considerable responsibility. Reputable and responsible breeding begins with an honest evaluation of both parents, and you must...
Chihuahuas originated in Mexico.Although a female Chihuahua may be biologically able to breed to any other canids, including wolves and coyote, producing healthy puppies limits the possible types...
Breeding beautiful Siberian huskies takes time and research.Breeding the Siberian husky requires research, patience and time in order to produce high-quality, healthy puppies. These hardworking do...
Boxers are hunting dogs and have been recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) since 1904. They get along well with other pets, but they enjoy running after other dogs and people. They are faw...
Yorkies are one of the very smallest of all dog breeds. They are prized for their small size and their huge personality. When breeding pure-bred dogs, it's important to choose dogs that are close...
