[gmarx]

That explains why most every dog breed that competes on looks and becomes popular gets messed up. Also American breeders have this odd habit of taking large dogs that should be about 80 lbs and breeding them into behemoths, usually to the detriment of the dogs

[appleiigs]

You are being too nice calling it a habit. Breeding behemoths is what sells. People will pay a premium for the pick of the litter (which is code words for "the biggest"). I don't have any problems with dog breeding per se, but the market forces are seriously broken.

EDIT: In addition to pushing for bigger dogs, it's also profitable to drive down food and vet costs. Kennel clubs like the American Kennel Club are scams. The kennel clubs just receive fees for processing paper. They don't inspect breeders. They don't care if you're a puppy mill. As long as you pay your fees, you will get your papers.

[gmarx]

the puppy mill thing is disgusting. I also knew a pathologist who clued me in on the fact that a lot of the breed characteristics are considered diseases in humans, e.g. the achondroplasia of dachsands and basset hounds.

My thinking- you should breed for performance, health and temperament.

[feld]

Russians did this with the German Giant Schnauzer and created the Black Russian Terrier. Their Giants are also significantly larger than the ones with German heritage, but both are recognized as the same breed.

[gmarx]

wasn't aware of this but will look it up.