✨ Breeder Spotlight: River Valley Canines
Thank you, Beth Bilharz, of River Valley Canines in Iowa, for sharing your words of wisdom with the TellTail community.
Explore the world of sighthounds, longdogs, and stag greyhound lurchers with Beth Bilharz of River Valley Canines. This article delves into the unique qualities that make these breeds exceptional, from their intelligence and agility to their unparalleled companionship. Discover the critical questions Beth asks potential puppy buyers to ensure a perfect match, the joys and challenges of dog breeding, and invaluable advice for aspiring breeders. Learn about the balance between health, breed preservation, and the ethical considerations that come with breeding. A must-read for anyone passionate about enhancing the lives of these remarkable canines.
💡 Interested in being in the spotlight, or wish to nominate a friend? Email us at hello@telltail.com
What is so special about Sighthounds, LongDogs, and Stag Greyhound Lurchers?
Sighthounds, LongDogs, and Stag Greyhound Lurchers hold a special place in my heart due to their unique combination of elegance, intelligence, and companionship. I have come to appreciate the intricacies of different dog breeds, and these sight-oriented canines possess a remarkable level of brilliance that sets them apart. Their keen observational skills and quick comprehension make them exceptional in various activities, such as obedience, lure coursing, dock diving, barn hunt, and agility competitions to name a few. It is fascinating to witness their effortless grace and speed as they navigate obstacles and demonstrate their exceptional cognitive abilities. Their intuition and unique comprehension abilities make them truly remarkable companions.
Moreover, the companionship offered by sighthounds, longdogs, and stag greyhound lurchers is unparalleled. Their deep bond with their families and affectionate nature make them perfect companions for individuals seeking unwavering emotional support. The loyalty and devotion displayed by these breeds and/or types further emphasize their exceptional qualities. Whether sprawled out beside me during late-night TV. binge-watching or playfully engaging in stimulating activities, their presence brings me immense joy and comfort. Their cognitive capability and graceful nature provide a fascinating subject of study, while their unwavering loyalty and togetherness serve as a source of solace.
Sighthounds, such as Greyhounds and Whippets, possess an exceptional level of intellect that often goes unnoticed. Their sharp minds enable them to quickly grasp and understand complex tasks, making them highly trainable and adaptable. Moreover, their comprehension skills allow them to empathize with their owners, leading to a deeper bond between human and canine. This remarkable intelligence also extends to their problem-solving capabilities, enabling them to navigate situations with ease.
As a breeder, I appreciate the intellectual stimulation that sighthounds and stag lurchers provide, allowing me to cultivate a deeper connection with them.
LongDogs are a crossbreed between different sighthound breeds. Whereas the Stag Greyhound Lurchers, are crossbreed between sighthounds and other breeds like Terriers or Gun Dogs, exhibit an intriguing combination of intelligence and versatility. Their unique genetic mix contributes to their exceptional comprehension abilities, making them highly responsive and receptive to training. These types of canines are known for their problem-solving skills, and their intelligence enables them to excel in various activities, such as lure coursing, other sports, therapy service, hunting, or a combination.. Having a longdog and stag greyhound lurcher as companions allows me to engage in activities that challenge both our minds, fostering personal growth and creating lasting memories. Additionally, their adaptable nature means they can easily adjust to different living situations, making them perfect companions for a families ever-evolving lifestyle.
What questions do you ask your potential buyers?
When someone wants to buy a puppy, there are some important things we need to know to make sure the puppy goes to a good home.
So, we ask the potential puppy buyers some questions to understand if they will take good care of the puppy. Here are some questions we ask:
1. Do you have a big yard or a safe place for the puppy to play? We want to make sure the puppy has enough space to run and have fun.
2. Do you have enough time to take care of the puppy? Puppies need lots of attention, love, and playtime. We want to make sure they will have someone to take care of them.
3. Have you had a puppy before? It's important to know if the potential buyer has experience with puppies, so they know how to take care of them properly.
4. Do you have other pets at home? We want to know if there are other animals in the house, so we can make sure the puppy will get along with them.
5. Can you afford to take care of a puppy? Puppies need food, toys, and regular visits to the veterinarian. We want to make sure the potential buyer can provide all these things.
By asking these questions, we can make sure the puppy will go to a loving and suitable home where they will be happy and well taken care of.
Why do you love being a dog breeder?
The intellectual aspect of breeding dogs is fascinating to me. It requires a deep understanding of genetics, structure, function, and traits that are desired in a particular breed and/or type.
I enjoy researching pedigrees, studying bloodlines, and learning about different genetic markers that can potentially enhance existing qualities. This level of knowledge and comprehension helps me make informed decisions as to the furtherance of a breed and/or type.
Being a dog breeder allows me to witness the beauty of genetics and the intricate process of creating healthy and well-tempered pups.
It requires not only a deep understanding of a variety of dog breeds but also a sense of responsibility towards the well-being of these animals.
Being a dog breeder also allows me the ability to carefully select parent dogs based on their physical traits, temperament, and health, I can play a role in enhancing the overall quality. This process requires meticulous research, understanding the history, and staying up-to-date with the latest advancements in canine healthcare. With each litter, I strive to produce puppies that embody the best characteristics of their breed and/or type, promoting and preserving their unique qualities. I believe that my passion for this breed and type, combined with my knowledge and experience, will enable me to contribute significantly to its growth and well-being.
By collaborating with other breeders, enthusiasts, and organizations dedicated to health and temperament, we can collectively work towards positive changes in the breeding community.
Enthusiasts play a crucial role in this process as well. Their passion for the breed drives them to actively participate in discussions, events, and educational programs. By engaging with enthusiasts who are genuinely invested in promoting healthy traits and stable temperaments, we create a supportive network that fosters positive change.
The process of raising and nurturing puppies from birth until they find their forever homes is incredibly rewarding, as I get to witness their growth and development firsthand. Additionally, the opportunity to match each individual puppy to a suitable owner brings me great satisfaction, knowing that I am facilitating the creation of a loving and everlasting bond between a puppy and their human companion. Through these experiences and connections, I am continually motivated and fulfilled as a dog breeder. Seeing them learn and understand various training commands, behaviors, and social interactions is truly heartwarming. It is a gratifying experience to carefully nurture and train each puppy, preparing them to become beloved family pets, productive citizens, or even possessing the inherited potential to emerge as champions across diverse disciplines within the realm of canine events. Witnessing the impact that my well-bred and well-raised puppies have on their future owners brings me a sense of pride and fulfillment that words cannot adequately express.
Knowing that my hard work contributes, even if it’s a small piece, to improving the lives of these magnificent dogs. Being a dog breeder not only fulfills my passion but also allows me to make a meaningful and lasting impact within the canine community.
Across the board, being a dog breeder encompasses both my intellectual curiosity and my passion for nurturing and shaping the lives of these wonderful animals. I am eager to collaborate and make a positive impact that will leave a lasting legacy for future generations.
What challenges do you face as a dog breeder?
As a dog breeder, there are several challenges that one must navigate. Firstly, ensuring the health and welfare of the breeding dogs and their offspring can be a intimidating task. Accountable breeding requires extensive knowledge of genetics, hereditary diseases, and proper care practices. Breeders must conduct thorough health screenings, such as testing for eye disorders, heart issues, to avoid passing on potential health issues to future generations. Additionally, maintaining the mental and emotional well-being of both the breeding dogs and the puppies demands immense dedication and attention.
Another major challenge faced by dog breeders is the issue of “breed preservation” versus genetic diversity. The focus on maintaining breed standards and desirable traits sometimes overshadows the importance of genetic diversity. Breeders should strive to strike a balance between preserving existing breeds and promoting healthy genetic variation within the population to prevent the emergence of inherited diseases and deformities. By and large, dog breeding is a complex endeavor that requires extensive knowledge, collaboration decision-making, and a deep commitment to the well-being of the dogs involved.
Another challenge faced by dog breeders is the changing perceptions and attitudes towards breeding. While many accountable breeders prioritize the well-being of their dogs, breeders must navigate a delicate balance by educating potential families about responsible dog ownership practices, which is crucial for the well-being of both dogs and their human companions. By providing comprehensive information and guidance, we can ensure that dogs are placed in loving homes where they receive the care, attention, and training they need.
In conclusion, being a dog breeder in modern times requires careful consideration of various challenges.
Accountable breeders must prioritize the health and well-being of dogs, and work hard to maintain genetic integrity.
Furthermore, we must address the changing perceptions around breeding and proactively advocate for ethical practices. By upholding these responsibilities, breeders can work towards producing healthier and more well-rounded animals. Additionally, ongoing research and advancements in veterinary medicine can contribute to the betterment of specific breeds and/or types by addressing and minimizing genetic health issues that may be prevalent in certain breeds.
What advice do you have for aspiring breeders?
As an aspiring dog breeder, there are several key pieces of advice I would offer to those who are just starting out.
It is crucial to thoroughly educate oneself about the specific breed or type of dog being considered for breeding.
This entails not only understanding the physical characteristics and temperament traits but also their specific health conditions and genetic predispositions. This comprehensive knowledge will help ensure the accountable breeding of healthy and well-balanced dogs.
Accountable breeding practices should be of utmost importance to any aspiring dog breeder. Accountable breeders prioritize the health, temperament, and overall well-being of the dogs they breed. This includes conducting health screenings, performing genetic testing, and ensuring suitable homes for all puppies. Maintaining transparency with potential buyers and offering a lifetime commitment to the dogs bred are additional aspects of ethical breeding.
As an aspiring dog breeder, it is crucial to approach breeding with the utmost responsibility and commitment. Breeding dogs is not just a hobby; it is a serious commitment that requires extensive knowledge, careful planning, and a deep understanding of the breed and types. It is important to thoroughly research the breed and/or type you wish to breed, including its characteristic traits, health issues, and any specific requirements. Health screening and genetic testing should be a priority to ensure you are breeding healthy dogs, free from genetic disorders. Additionally, building a network of experienced breeders and joining clubs can provide valuable mentorship and guidance throughout the process. These connections can also be beneficial when seeking potential homes for your puppies. Adopting a screening process for potential buyers is crucial to ensure that the puppies are going to responsible owners who will provide them with a loving and suitable environment.
In conclusion, becoming a successful dog breeder requires a significant investment of time, effort, and knowledge. Aspiring breeders should diligently educate themselves about the specific breed and/or type they wish to work with, seek guidance from experienced breeders, and prioritize ethical practices with the utmost care for the physical and mental well-being of the animals involved. This includes providing proper nutrition, regular exercise, and a safe and comfortable environment for the animals to thrive in. By adhering to these principles, upcoming breeders can contribute positively to the betterment of their chosen breed or type and offer healthy, well-adjusted dogs/puppies to loving homes.
