And why “more” isn’t always better

You might notice that some Poodles in the show ring have long, sweeping hind legs that look dramatic or stylish when they’re stacked or moving. At first glance, it can seem impressive—but this extreme look, called overangulation, can actually cause problems.

🐩 What Is “Overangulation” Anyway?

Poodles should have a nice balance between their front legs and back legs. When a dog is overangulated, the bones in the back legs are angled too sharply. This makes the rear look longer or more stretched out behind the dog, especially when standing.

It’s like giving the dog high-performance springs in the back—but not enough support in the front to match.

❌ Why That’s a Bad Thing

1. ⚖️ It Throws Off Balance

Dogs need their front and back to work together like a team. When the rear legs are “too much,” it throws the body off balance. The dog may move in a way that looks fancy, but it isn’t smooth or efficient—and it can wear down the body over time.

2. 🚷 It Affects the Way They Move

Overangulated dogs often have trouble moving in a straight line. They may:

• Wobble or twist when walking
• Seem bouncy or choppy instead of smooth
• Trot awkwardly or wear out quickly

This isn’t just about looks—good movement means the dog can walk, run, and play with less risk of injury.

3. 🐾 It Can Be Uncomfortable or Even Painful

Too much angle in the back legs puts strain on the joints and muscles. Over time, this can cause:

• Arthritis
• Hip and knee problems
• Muscle soreness or injuries

That’s especially concerning for active dogs who love to run, hike, or compete in sports.

4. 🐶 Even Puppies Are Affected

Puppies with too much rear angulation often have trouble sitting square or standing up straight. They might seem wobbly or weak in the back end. These are early signs that their structure is off—and it usually gets worse, not better, as they grow.

🧬 But Aren’t Show Dogs Supposed to Look Fancy?

Yes, but “fancy” doesn’t mean exaggerated. The official standard for Poodles says their rear should be well-angled—but in balance with the front.

Overangulated rears are becoming more common in some show lines because they look flashy and may even be rewarded in the ring. But in the long run, they don’t hold up well—and they don’t reflect what the breed was meant to be: a strong, athletic, versatile dog.

✅ What You Want to See Instead

• Balanced structure: Front and back legs that match in length and angle
• Smooth movement: A dog that trots with ease, without bouncing or wobbling
• Strong and sturdy: A rear end that supports healthy hips and joints for life
• Comfortable puppies: Sitting and standing naturally, no wobbles or weird postures

❤️ Why It Matters

Whether your Poodle is a show dog, a sports partner, or a beloved family pet—structure matters. A well-built dog is:

• Less likely to get injured
• More likely to stay active into old age
• Happier and more comfortable in daily life

So next time someone says, “Look at those long legs!”—remember: flashy isn’t always functional.

Form Follows Function: Understanding the Why Behind the Structure – Part One

As breeders, exhibitors, and performance partners, we spend a lot of time looking at dogs. But how often do we pause to truly see them? Structure isn’t just about stacking a dog or memorizing a standard. It’s about understanding why our breeds are built the way they are. Form follows function—and if we want to breed dogs that move well, work soundly, and live long, healthy lives, we need to understand how form and function connect.

Stephanie Hedgepath’s “Form Follows Function” series in ShowSight Magazine is a masterclass in going beyond the surface. This first article sets the foundation, not by diving right into anatomy, but by reminding us of our responsibility: to preserve breed type and function. As she writes, “You cannot evaluate movement until you understand structure, and you cannot evaluate structure until you understand type.”

Type is more than just a silhouette—it’s the physical expression of a breed’s purpose. Whether retrieving, herding, guarding, or simply moving efficiently, every breed was designed with a job in mind. And when we breed, show, or judge dogs, we should be measuring their structure against that functional blueprint—not chasing trends or exaggerations.

Balance is a word that gets thrown around a lot, but here, it’s clearly defined. A balanced dog is one whose parts—front and rear angles, topline and underline, head and neck—work in harmony. Balance isn’t just aesthetic; it’s essential for endurance and efficiency. An unbalanced dog may still move, but not without wasting energy or straining joints.

As breeders of purpose-bred dogs, this is our charge: to understand our breed’s history, to protect its future, and to evaluate structure not just for the ring, but for the real-life work our dogs were built to do.

This first article lays the philosophical groundwork for the deep-dive that follows. It’s a call to curiosity, humility, and intention. Our dogs deserve nothing less.

Form Follows Function – Part Two: The Canine Skeleton – the Blueprint Beneath the Breed

If form follows function, then the skeleton is the blueprint. In Part Two, Hedgepath takes us beneath the coat and into the foundational framework of every breed: bone. Every dog, regardless of type or size, has the same basic skeletal structure. But it’s the length of the bones and the angles of the joints that create breed-specific silhouettes—and functional differences.

Understanding the canine skeleton is essential to interpreting structure. Long bones (like the humerus and femur) give leverage for movement. Short bones (like those in the carpus and tarsus) absorb shock and provide stability. Flat bones protect vital organs. And all bones serve as attachment points for the muscles and ligaments that move our dogs forward.

Hedgepath explains joint types with clarity: ball-and-socket joints (shoulder and hip) allow rotation, hinge joints (elbow and stifle) provide flexion and extension, and gliding joints (carpus, tarsus) offer limited, shock-absorbing motion. When we understand how these joints function, we can better recognize why certain angulations—too steep, too flat, too long, too short—lead to inefficiencies or even injury.

One of the most important takeaways is the front assembly’s role in weight distribution. Dogs carry about 60% of their body weight on their front end. That means the front structure—scapula, humerus, elbow, pasterns, and feet—must be both shock-absorbing and structurally sound. The angles and proportions here determine reach, impact absorption, and long-term soundness.

This part of the series is a reminder that good structure isn’t cosmetic. It’s the product of precise skeletal architecture. As breeders, when we assess a young puppy or a promising show dog, we should be asking: does this dog have the bone and balance to do the job it was bred for?

Because under every coat—whether curly, wiry, smooth, or double—is a blueprint. The job of a preservation breeder is to understand it, respect it, and protect it.

Form Follows Function – Part Three: Hindquarters, Head, Neck & Spine

In Part Three, Hedgepath shifts focus to the rear—the engine of propulsion—and the spinal column that connects it all. This section reminds us that movement starts in the rear, is stabilized by the spine, and is directed by the head and neck. When these pieces are structurally sound and properly balanced, efficient, effortless movement is possible.

The pelvis is angled to allow powerful thrust from the rear. Ideally, the femur should be of equal length to the pelvis and meet at a 90-degree angle at the hip joint. The lower thigh (tibia and fibula) should equal or exceed the length of the upper thigh to maintain strength and flexibility through the hock. These proportions directly affect drive and follow-through.

Moving forward, the spine is more than a bridge between front and rear. The cervical vertebrae in the neck allow head carriage, flexibility, and shock absorption. The thoracic vertebrae support rib structure and provide the strength behind a well-developed topline. The lumbar and sacral vertebrae, especially where the pelvis anchors to the sacrum, are critical for propulsion. Each section plays a distinct role and should be assessed both visually and through touch.

The head—its shape, proportions, and function—matters just as much. Skull type (mesocephalic, dolichocephalic, or brachycephalic) isn’t just a visual cue. It reflects the breed’s original function, bite mechanics, and sensory needs. Jaw strength, dentition, and proportion between skull and muzzle can indicate a dog’s ability to perform its intended work.

Together, the hindquarters, spine, neck, and head create a functional continuum. They form the support system and steering mechanism for purposeful movement. When breeders understand how these systems interrelate, we’re better equipped to evaluate puppies, assess breeding stock, and advocate for soundness across the lifespan.

The beauty of structure isn’t just in stillness—it’s in the way it powers motion. And that starts from the rear and runs right through to the nose.

Form Follows Function – Part Four: Visual Assessment Techniques

Part Four brings us to the eyes and hands of the breeder and judge: visual assessment. Before we ever touch a dog, we use our trained eyes to evaluate balance, proportion, angulation, and overall harmony. This article breaks down how to look beyond the surface and assess structure in motion and at rest.

Stephanie Hedgepath reminds us that visual assessment is not guesswork; it’s a skill built on understanding anatomy and breed type. She walks us through key visual checkpoints: head set, neck length and carriage, shoulder slope, front and rear angulation, topline, croup, tail set, and foot placement. Each area tells a story about how the dog moves and functions.

Balance is front and center again—whether the dog’s front matches its rear in angulation and length. Is the topline level or does it dip? Does the dog move smoothly with a natural stride, or is there stiffness or awkwardness? The article also encourages breeders to watch dogs from multiple angles, noting how structure translates into real-world movement.

This step is critical before the hands-on exam. Visual cues guide where to focus palpation and what questions to ask about a dog’s soundness and potential. For preservation breeders like us, learning to read these visual signs early means better selection and stronger breeding decisions.

In your program, combine these visual checkpoints with your knowledge of breed history and function. This way, you’re not just seeing a pretty dog—you’re seeing a working athlete built for purpose.

Form Follows Function – Part Five: Hands-On Exam of the Front Assembly

Building on visual assessment, Part Five dives into the tactile side of structure evaluation—palpating the front assembly. The front end carries about 60% of a dog’s weight, so understanding what you feel under the coat is crucial for assessing soundness and function.

Stephanie Hedgepath guides us through feeling the scapula’s position and angle, the length and layback of the shoulder blade, and the upper arm’s length and attachment. These elements shape reach and shock absorption. Palpating the elbow joint reveals flexion and extension, as well as any signs of stress or arthritis.

You’ll learn to trace the foreleg down to the pasterns and feet, noting angulation and stability. The article stresses the importance of feeling for muscle tone, ligament integrity, and joint alignment to detect faults that may not be obvious visually.

For breeders focused on preservation, this hands-on work complements what you see in the stack and in movement. It helps you confirm or question your visual impressions and ensures you’re selecting dogs with sound, functional front ends.

Mastering front assembly palpation builds a foundation for the rear and full-body exams coming up next. With this skill, you’re better equipped to protect and promote the structure that supports healthy, balanced movement.

Form Follows Function – Part Six: Hands-On Exam of Chest, Topline, and Hindquarters

In this final hands-on chapter, Stephanie Hedgepath walks us through palpating the chest, topline, and rear assembly—key areas that influence strength, balance, and propulsion.

Start by feeling the rib spring, checking the curve and depth of the ribs from both sides. An ideal ribcage supports efficient breathing and endurance without being slab-sided or barrel-shaped. Next, move your hands along the spine from the withers through the thoracic and lumbar vertebrae, assessing muscle development and spinal alignment. A strong, smooth topline is essential for a sound, athletic dog.

Then focus on the croup and tailset by palpating the sacrum and pelvis. The pelvis should be well-angled to allow powerful rear drive. Feel the loin length and the ischial tuberosities (“pin bones”) to evaluate rear balance and strength. This tactile examination complements the visual assessment of rear angulation and tail carriage.

Together, these structures form the foundation for propulsion and balance in movement. As a preservation breeder, mastering this palpation helps you select dogs with the physical tools needed for longevity and function.

With Parts Five and Six complete, you’ve gained a full toolkit for evaluating structure by both sight and touch. The next step is applying this knowledge to movement and gait analysis—seeing form truly follow function in action.

Form Follows Function – Toes Up: The Foundation Beneath Every Step

Often overlooked, a dog’s feet and toes are the literal foundation of movement. Healthy, well-structured toes provide support, traction, and shock absorption—key factors in soundness and athleticism.

Dogs typically walk on four main toes per foot, each with three small bones that allow flexibility and grip. The dewclaws—vestigial fifth toes—vary by breed and function. Front dewclaws are often firmly attached to bone and help with stability; rear dewclaws may be looser and sometimes removed if they pose a risk.

Pads cushion each toe and the foot’s underside, made of dense connective tissue and fat covered by thick, protective skin. These pads absorb impact and help dogs adapt to varying terrain, whether slick floors or rugged trails.

Toenails also play a role in traction and balance. Keeping nails trimmed and healthy helps maintain proper foot positioning and prevents discomfort or gait alteration.

When evaluating structure, don’t forget to examine toes and feet by sight and touch. Look for symmetry, proper alignment, healthy pads, and secure dewclaws. Well-formed feet contribute to efficient, effortless movement—just as form should always follow function.

Form Follows Function: Questions Asked on Social Media

One of the most common messages I receive goes something like this:

“We’re looking for a puppy—do you have any available?”

or

“We’d love a cream male—do you have one right now?”

I completely understand the excitement of wanting to welcome a new puppy into your life. But here’s the truth: if you’re working with an ethical, preservation breeder, the process is going to look—and feel—very different from shopping for a pet online.

We Don’t Breed on Demand

At Standard Poodles of Forest Lakes, our dogs are our family. They live in our home, not in kennels. Every litter we plan is the result of years of research, health testing, evaluation, and observation—not to mention deep consideration of temperament, structure, and goals for the breed. Our litters are not frequent, and they are never rushed.

And just because a female reaches breeding age doesn’t mean we breed her right away. We wait until she is fully mature—physically and mentally—so that she can confidently raise and care for her puppies. That foundation gives each pup the best possible start in life.

It’s About the Right Match—Not Just Availability

When you bring home a puppy from us, you’re not just “buying a dog.” You’re becoming part of our extended family. And just like with any meaningful relationship, that takes time and mutual understanding. We’re committed to placing our puppies in homes where they’ll be loved and supported for a lifetime. That means getting to know you—your lifestyle, your goals, your expectations—and selecting the puppy who fits best.

We don’t let families pick based on color, size, or who was first in line. We match puppies based on personality, potential, and fit. We’ve spent every moment with these puppies from birth—we know them better than anyone.

Why Backyard Breeders Thrive (and Why You Shouldn’t Buy From Them)

Backyard breeders—and even some volume-focused kennels—thrive on impulse buyers: those looking for a specific color, those unwilling to wait, or those who may have already been told they’re not an ideal candidate for the breed. They breed for demand, not for the betterment of the breed. The result? Puppies that may lack stable temperaments, sound structure, and long-term health support.

You Have Two Choices: Ethical Breeder or Adoption

Let’s be honest: if you want a well-bred, purebred dog, there are only two responsible choices—work with a reputable, ethical breeder, or adopt. That’s it. And if you’re choosing to work with a preservation breeder, it’s not about filling an order—it’s about trusting the process.

Choose the Breeder, Not Just the Puppy

Every ethical breeder has different priorities—conformation, health, service potential, therapy aptitude, performance, or companionship. That’s why it’s so important to choose a breeder whose values align with yours. Before asking, “Do you have puppies available?” take the time to form a connection. Learn about the program. Share your hopes and plans for life with your future dog. Be willing to wait. Sometimes that wait is months—or longer—but it’s always worth it.

And in the end? You don’t “pick” your puppy. The breeder helps you meet the right one. The one who fits not just your wishlist, but your world.

Looking to start that journey with us?

We’d love to get to know you. Learn more about our program, our values, and our process here.

How Victim Mentality Feeds Cancel Culture in the Dog World

💡 What Is Dystocia?

Dystocia refers to any difficulty during labor that prevents a puppy from being delivered naturally. It can be caused by a range of factors, both maternal and fetal.

Maternal causes:

• • Uterine inertia (primary or secondary)
  • Pelvic abnormalities
  • Uterine torsion or rupture
  • Narrow birth canal

Fetal causes:

• • Oversized puppy
  • Malpositioned puppy
  • Congenital abnormalities
  • Multiple puppies attempting to enter the birth canal simultaneously

🚩 Warning Signs of Dystocia

As breeders, knowing the difference between normal whelping and a red-flag situation is critical. Contact your vet immediately if:

• Strong contractions continue for 30 minutes or more with no puppy delivered
• More than 2 hours pass between puppies
• The dam is in visible distress—panting excessively, straining with no result, crying, or weakening
• You see green or foul-smelling discharge without the appearance of a puppy
• A puppy is partially delivered and stuck

Time is critical in these situations. Delaying can cost not just puppies—but your dam’s life.

🛠️ Emergency Response: What to Do

1. Stay calm. Your dog needs you to think clearly.
2. Call your vet or emergency clinic immediately. Provide details: how long she’s been in labor, signs you’re seeing, and how many puppies have been delivered.
3. Prep for transport if needed. Always have a whelping emergency kit and a carrier ready before the due date.
4. Do not attempt to manually extract a stuck puppy unless you’ve been trained and are using sterile technique. Incorrect handling can cause fatal injuries.

🔬 Diagnostics and Treatment

Veterinary intervention may include:

• Calcium and oxytocin injections (only under professional guidance)
• X-rays or ultrasound to determine fetal position and viability
• C-section, which may be the safest route for both dam and pups

If you’ve never witnessed a dystocia before, it can be deeply traumatic—but preparation and partnership with your vet make all the difference.

✅ Prevention & Breeding Ethics

While not all dystocia is preventable, responsible breeding reduces risk significantly. Here’s how:

• Screen for structural soundness—Avoid dams with narrow hips or pelvic abnormalities.
• Know your lines—Some breeds or families are more prone to large pups or uterine inertia.
• Track progesterone timing and ovulation to predict due dates more accurately.
• Feed and condition your pregnant dam appropriately—Overweight or under-conditioned bitches are at higher risk.
• Be present for every whelping. Always.

Ethical breeding isn’t just about producing beautiful, healthy dogs. It’s about showing up for the hard parts, being prepared, and always putting our girls first.

💬 Final Thoughts

Dystocia can be devastating—but knowledge is power. When we know the signs and act quickly, we can save lives. As breeders, we must continue educating ourselves, supporting one another, and building programs rooted in integrity and compassion.

Have you experienced a case of dystocia? What did you learn? Share in the comments—your story might help another breeder in their moment of crisis.

📚 References

• Canine and Feline Reproduction and Neonatology – Veteriankey

• Recent Advances in Small Animal Reproduction – Veteriankey

• Reproductive Emergencies in the Bitch – Vet Clinics of North America

• Dystocia in Dogs and Cats: Causes, Treatment, and Prevention – Compendium

• [Miller’s Anatomy of the Dog (4th Edition) – Reference Textbook]

• Veterinary Partner Article on Dystocia

In the quest to understand aging and longevity, telomeres have emerged as a significant piece of the puzzle. These protective caps at the ends of our chromosomes play a crucial role in cellular health and lifespan.

What Are Telomeres?

Telomeres are repetitive DNA sequences located at the ends of chromosomes. They act like the plastic tips of shoelaces, preventing chromosomes from fraying or sticking to each other. Each time a cell divides, its telomeres shorten slightly. When telomeres become too short, the cell can no longer divide and becomes senescent or dies.

Telomeres and Aging

The shortening of telomeres is associated with aging and the onset of age-related diseases. Research has shown that individuals with longer telomeres tend to have longer lifespans and a lower risk of chronic diseases. Conversely, shorter telomeres are linked to increased risks of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and certain cancers.

Factors Influencing Telomere Length

Several factors can influence the rate at which telomeres shorten:

• Genetics: Inherited factors play a role in determining baseline telomere length.
• Lifestyle: Chronic stress, poor diet, lack of exercise, and smoking can accelerate telomere shortening. Conversely, healthy lifestyle choices may slow this process.
• Environmental Exposures: Exposure to pollutants and toxins can contribute to oxidative stress, leading to faster telomere attrition.

Telomerase: The Telomere-Extending Enzyme

Telomerase is an enzyme that adds DNA sequences to the ends of telomeres, effectively lengthening them. While most somatic cells have low telomerase activity, certain cells like stem cells and germ cells exhibit higher activity levels. Research is ongoing to explore ways to safely activate telomerase in somatic cells to combat aging. 

Implications for Breeding and Longevity

Understanding telomere dynamics can be valuable for breeders aiming to promote longevity and health in their lines. While direct measurement of telomere length in animals is still a developing field, selecting for traits associated with longevity and robust health may indirectly favor individuals with more favorable telomere biology.

So the question arises, can we use this information to create longer living offspring? Some studies in humans and animals show that sperm from older males may have slightly longer telomeres, because sperm-producing stem cells activate telomerase (the enzyme that can lengthen telomeres). So technically, yes, older studs might pass on longer telomeres. This phenomenon, observed in humans and other species, suggests a positive correlation between the sire’s telomere length and the offspring’s longevity. While longer telomeres are not the sole predictor of health or lifespan, this emerging science highlights the importance of considering paternal age and telomere dynamics when evaluating breeding decisions. But here’s the catch—this doesn’t always mean the puppies will live longer. Other factors, like accumulated mutations in aging sperm or overall genetic health, could offset any telomere advantage.

🧬 Does longevity run in the line?

Absolutely. This is one of the strongest indicators. Dogs from long-lived lines—especially when both sides of the pedigree show solid health into the teens—are more likely to pass on those genes. Longevity is polygenic (influenced by many genes) and often tied to low incidence of disease, good immune function, sound structure, and yes—healthy telomere maintenance.

• Longevity tends to follow family lines, not just age of the sire.

• Telomere length plays a role but isn’t the whole story.

• Good breeding decisions should weigh structure, temperament, pedigree health, and line longevity over any single marker.

Summary

Telomeres serve as a biological clock, influencing how cells age and function. By understanding the factors that affect telomere length, we can make informed decisions to promote health and longevity, both in ourselves and in the animals we care for.

🧬 A Note on Cloning and Telomeres

Cloning, particularly somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT), involves using a donor cell from an adult organism. One of the challenges in cloning is that the donor cell’s telomeres may already be shortened due to age or cellular replication. This can lead to prematurely aged clones with reduced lifespans and increased susceptibility to age-related diseases.

For example, the famous cloned sheep Dolly was created using a mammary gland cell from a six-year-old ewe. Researchers later found that Dolly’s telomeres were significantly shorter than those of naturally born sheep of the same age, possibly contributing to her early health problems and death.

Not all clones exhibit telomere shortening—some studies have shown telomerase activity can be reactivated during cloning, partially resetting the telomere length. However, the inconsistency underscores how telomere biology remains a crucial consideration in cloning and regenerative biology.

📚 References

1. Shekhidem, H. A., Sharvit, L., Leman, E., Manov, I., & Roichman, A. (2019). Telomeres and Longevity: A Cause or an Effect? International Journal of Molecular Sciences.
This study explores the complex relationship between telomere length and lifespan, discussing whether telomere shortening is a cause or consequence of aging.

2. Vaiserman, A., & Krasnienkov, D. (2021). Telomere Length as a Marker of Biological Age: State-of-the-Art, Open Issues, and Future Perspectives. Frontiers in Genetics.
This paper reviews the current understanding of telomere length as a biomarker for biological aging and its potential applications.

3. Shammas, M. A. (2011). Telomeres, lifestyle, cancer, and aging. Current Opinion in Clinical Nutrition and Metabolic Care.
This article discusses how lifestyle factors influence telomere length and the implications for aging and cancer.

4. Lansdorp, P. M. (2022). Telomeres, aging, and cancer: the big picture. Blood.
This publication provides an overview of telomere biology and its significance in aging and cancer development.

5. Chen, L.-Y., Redon, S., & Lingner, J. (2012). The human CST complex is a terminator of telomerase activity. Nature.
This study identifies the CST complex as a regulator of telomerase activity, contributing to telomere length homeostasis.

6. Benetos, A., Fritsch, C., Horton, E., Lenotre, L., Toupance, S., & Villemonais, D. (2024). Stochastic branching models for the telomeres dynamics in a model including telomerase activity. arXiv.
This research presents mathematical models to understand telomere dynamics and the role of telomerase in cellular aging.

7. EatingWell Editors. (2021). How Food Can Help You Look and Feel More Youthful—Here’s What the Science Says. EatingWell.
This article summarizes research on how diet and lifestyle choices can influence telomere length and aging.

8. Sifferlin, A. (2017). Exercise Makes You Younger at the Cellular Level. TIME.
This piece reports on studies linking regular physical activity to longer telomeres and reduced biological aging.

9. Keim, B. (2009). Nobel Winners Isolate Protein Behind Immortality, Cancer. WIRED.
This article discusses the Nobel Prize-winning discovery of telomerase and its implications for aging and cancer.

10. Kimura, M., Cherkas, L. F., Kato, B. S., Demissie, S., Hjelmborg, J. V. B., Brimacombe, M., Hunkin, J. L., Gardner, J. P., Lu, X., Cao, X., Sastrasinh, M., Province, M. A., Hunt, S. C., Christensen, K., Levy, D., Spector, T. D., & Aviv, A. (2008). Offspring’s leukocyte telomere length, paternal age, and telomere elongation in sperm. PLoS Genetics.
This study shows that older paternal age is associated with longer telomeres in sperm, which are passed on to offspring, potentially affecting their longevity.

11. Eisenberg, D. T. A., Hayes, M. G., & Kuzawa, C. W. (2012). Delayed paternal age of reproduction in humans is associated with longer telomeres across two generations of descendants. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
This paper reports that the lengthening of telomeres in sperm with paternal age can have intergenerational effects, influencing the telomere length of children and even grandchildren.

12. Aviv, A., Hunt, S. C., Lin, J., Cao, X., Kimura, M., & Blackburn, E. H. (2011). Leukocyte telomere length and the father’s age enigma: implications for male-driven evolution of telomere length in humans. Molecular Human Reproduction.
This article explores the biological mechanisms behind increased telomere length in the sperm of older fathers and its evolutionary implications.

Breeding dogs is often compared to baking—carefully measured ingredients, a trusted recipe, and a dash of heart. But here’s the truth: there’s no single recipe for producing the perfect specimen of any breed, no matter how well you follow the standard. The reality is far more nuanced. Ethical breeding isn’t a one-size-fits-all checklist—it’s a thoughtful, complex process that requires knowledge, patience, and a deep understanding of the dogs involved.

🧬 A Moving Target: The Breed Standard

Every breed has a published standard, but even that is open to interpretation. Two breeders can study the same document and walk away with different visions. Why? Because type, balance, and expression don’t exist in a vacuum—they come alive in each individual dog. And no two dogs, even from the same litter, are exactly alike.

So how can there be a single formula for producing the “ideal”? Spoiler: there isn’t.

🧩 Breeding is About Weighing the Whole Dog

Every potential pairing is a puzzle. A breeder must evaluate each dog’s type, structure, temperament, health, movement, and overall contribution to the breed. What strengths will the sire pass on? What weaknesses must the dam offset—and vice versa?

A dog with a gorgeous head might lack rear angulation. Another might be built like a dream but lack front fill. Do their pedigrees show consistency in the traits you want to preserve? Are their temperaments complementary? Do they both exemplify your interpretation of the breed standard—or does one fill in where the other leaves off?

This is where the art of breeding comes in. You don’t just look at the pieces—you envision the whole.

🧪 Tools of the Trade: Science + Experience

While instinct and experience are critical, responsible breeders also use every tool available to inform their choices:

• Pedigree Research: Know the family behind the dog. Patterns of strengths and weaknesses often show up in extended lines.
• Genetic Diversity Tools: Tools like the Canine Genetic Diversity Test help reduce the risk of inherited diseases and inbreeding depression.
• COI (Coefficient of Inbreeding) & AVK (Ancestor Loss Coefficient): Use these to assess genetic variation and make smart pairing decisions.
• Health Testing: Go beyond the basics. Know what your breed is predisposed to and test accordingly.

None of these tools offer guarantees—but together, they improve your odds of producing healthy, balanced dogs that honor the breed.

⏳ Long Game Breeding: Not All Faults Are Created Equal

Some structural faults are easier to improve than others. Topline inconsistencies, weak pasterns, and short upper arms may take multiple generations to correct (specific to the breed). Breeding is not just about this litter—it’s about where you want to be three generations from now. That means staying committed for the long haul and making decisions that move your program forward with integrity.

🚫 Pet-Only Breeding Isn’t Preservation

It’s important to acknowledge the difference between ethical breeding and breeding for profit. Breeders who are simply producing puppies to sell as “pets” are not working to improve the breed or preserve its future. They are breeding for a paycheck—not for the betterment of their lines or the health and soundness of future generations. There’s no long-term vision, no plan to move the needle forward—only a short-term goal of filling a demand.

🤝 Call to Action: Connect, Learn, Grow

If you’re a newer breeder, know this: you don’t have to go it alone. Talk to people. Seek out formal or informal mentors. Learn how they evaluate potential pairings and how they interpret the standard. Add those insights to your toolbox and weigh them carefully against your own observations.

Every generation is a chance to improve. Let your decisions reflect that responsibility—and that passion.

Because in the end, breeding isn’t about following a recipe.
It’s about honoring the breed—and building something worth preserving.

✅ Additional Considerations When Pairing Dogs:

1. Temperament Compatibility & Predictability
Even if both dogs have stable temperaments, how they express it matters. Will their combined temperaments complement each other? Do they both have biddable, confident, recovery-minded personalities? Will their offspring be suitable for your performance, conformation, service, or family goals?

2. Size Compatibility
Beyond just general height/weight:

• Are both dogs within the ideal size range for the breed standard?
• Will combining these dogs potentially lead to undersized or oversized offspring?
• Are you prepared to track how an outsized pairing affects proportion and balance?

3. Fertility & Reproductive History

• Has either dog struggled to conceive or produce viable litters?
• Do either have difficulty whelping or nursing?
• Are they proven or unproven? (and how do you plan accordingly?)

4. Longevity in the Line

• Are close relatives long-lived?
• Have they aged gracefully, or did they show early signs of joint, heart, or organ issues?

5. Orthopedic Health & Soundness

• Are there any red flags regarding joint laxity, ligament strength, or recurring injury risk in the pedigree?
• Have you considered gait and joint congruity when watching both dogs move?

6. Bite & Dentition

• Are both dogs full-mouthed?
• Are there minor bite faults that could intensify if paired?
• Are undershot, overshot, or base-narrow jaws in the lineage?

7. Coat Quality & Grooming Maintenance

Consider coat texture, density, and color genetics.

• Are you doubling up on hard-to-manage coat types or mismatched textures?
• Are the coats of the pair likely to produce uniform or unpredictable offspring?

8. Color Genetics & Recessive Traits

• Are you breeding with a strong understanding of color inheritance (especially in poodles)?
• Are you aware of hidden recessives or dilute genes that may be lurking?

9. Titles & Accomplishments

• Do both dogs have accomplishments in the ring or performance that demonstrate their structure, drive, or temperament in real-world scenarios?
• If one dog is unproven in this regard, are they bringing something irreplaceable to the table (i.e. pedigree, health, structure)?

10. Outcross vs. Linebreeding Strategy

• Are you intentionally doubling up on specific ancestors? If so, why?
• Are you using an outcross to improve vigor or correct a fault?
• Do you understand the long-term implications of this pairing within your line?

11. Breeder’s Long-Term Goals

• Does this litter contribute to your program or just produce a litter?
• Are you willing to keep and continue to assess multiple pups if the results aren’t clear at 8 weeks?
• What will this litter tell you about where your line is going?

12. Ethical Considerations & Responsibility

• Will you stand behind the puppies long term?
• Are you prepared to keep or rehome any puppies that do not meet expectations or cannot be placed?

🧬 How UC Davis and BetterBred Map DNA – And What It Actually Means

This is a follow-up to my post on Understanding Canine Genetic Diversity Research.

When we talk about “mapping DNA” in canine genetic diversity testing, what we’re referring to is the process of analyzing specific markers across the genome to measure diversity and breed relationships. UC Davis, through its Canine Genetic Diversity Project, and BetterBred, a partner platform, use a specific kind of DNA testing known as Short Tandem Repeat (STR) genotyping.

What Are STR Markers?

STRs are regions in DNA where short sequences of base pairs repeat. These regions are highly variable from one dog to another, making them perfect for measuring genetic diversity.

UC Davis tests:

• 33 autosomal STR loci (the main body chromosomes)

• 7 DLA (Dog Leukocyte Antigen) loci (important for immune system function)

This test is used across all breeds, allowing both within-breed and cross-breed comparisons.

🧪 How Much of the Dog’s DNA Is This?

Let’s put it into perspective:

• The entire dog genome has around 2.5 billion base pairs.

• The STR-based test covers just a tiny fraction of that—a few hundred to a few thousand base pairs total.

• So, the sample represents much less than 0.0001% of the dog’s entire genome.

But even this small slice can tell us a huge amount about diversity, population structure, and relatedness—think of it as using fingerprints rather than full body scans.

BetterBred and Risky Haplotypes:

BetterBred uses data from UC Davis’s canine genetic diversity study to analyze haplotypes—clusters of genes inherited together. These clusters can give breeders insight into how genetically diverse or similar a dog is, especially across the DLA (Dog Leukocyte Antigen) region, which is part of the immune system.

Here’s how it works:

• Each haplotype is labeled as common, uncommon, or rare within the breed’s established database.

• BetterBred identifies “risky” matings when a sire and dam share identical or highly similar haplotypes, especially in both DLA Class I and II. Too much similarity here can increase the risk of autoimmune issues and reduce overall immune diversity in offspring.

• Risky haplotypes may also reflect limited ancestral diversity, meaning the pair may have a greater chance of producing genetically bottlenecked litters with less long-term resilience.

Breeding with diverse but compatible dogs helps maintain health, fertility, and longevity in the breed.

🎯 Why It Matters to Breeders

This kind of testing does not predict health outcomes, but it does help breeders:

• Avoid excessive inbreeding.

• Preserve rare alleles that might otherwise be lost.

• Make informed pairings that improve the genetic health and longevity of the breed.

For SPFL, it means we can maintain the classic structure, temperament, and function of the Standard Poodle while also keeping an eye on preserving the genetic richness that makes the breed sustainable for generations to come.

Why Adding Intervariety-Bred Poodles is Problematic for the Standard Poodle Database:

The Standard Poodle has a distinct genetic fingerprint developed over decades. The addition of Miniature (or Toy) poodles—who have different historical breeding selections and sometimes unrelated health concerns—can introduce genetic noise that skews the data.

Key issues:

• Distorted Diversity Metrics: Including dogs from other varieties inflates perceived diversity in the Standard Poodle gene pool. It may look like we have more unique haplotypes or better outcross potential than truly exists.

• False Security in Matchmaking: A breeder could unintentionally match two dogs thinking they are genetically diverse, when in fact that diversity comes from incompatible intervariety outcrosses that don’t reflect the historical standard poodle population.

• Health Risk Confusion: Intervariety dogs may carry different mutation frequencies or traits not typical in standard lines, complicating interpretation of results and breeding decisions.

You can think of it like trying to measure the nutritional diversity of apples… but someone added pears to the study. It may still look “diverse,” but it’s no longer accurate to what apple growers need to know.

Cause for Concern?

💢 1. Inflated Genetic Diversity Metrics

Intervariety poodles (those with Miniature or Toy ancestry) introduce haplotypes not native to the Standard Poodle population. These “new” haplotypes may be labeled rare or unique, giving the false impression that the breed has more diversity than it actually does.

➡️ Why it matters: Standard breeders might feel encouraged to breed two dogs based on seemingly diverse genetics, when in reality that diversity was artificially introduced from another variety—not historically present in Standard lines.

🧬 2. Misleading Outcross Potential

When evaluating potential pairings, BetterBred’s tools try to identify the best matches to increase genetic diversity. But if the database includes dogs with intervariety ancestry, it can recommend outcrosses that are not actually appropriate for Standards.

➡️ Result: Breeders aiming for thoughtful preservation may end up compromising structure, temperament, or health consistency by unknowingly introducing Miniature traits.

🧪 3. Diluted Breed-Specific Data

Standard Poodles have unique breed-related trends in autoimmune risks, DLA haplotype frequencies, and genetic bottlenecks. Mixing in intervariety data confuses these patterns, making it harder to:

• • Identify which DLA combinations are truly rare or risky in Standards

  • Understand real diversity within the Standard population

  • Make informed breeding decisions based on Standard-specific history

🐩 4. Undermines Preservation Goals

Preservation breeding isn’t just about health—it’s about maintaining the distinct identity of the Standard Poodle: their size, structure, coat, temperament, and working aptitude.

➡️ Including intervariety dogs in the database erodes the historical record of Standard Poodle genetics and confuses efforts to maintain the breed’s integrity.

Summary

“As a preservation breeder, I believe that intervariety breeding introduces traits, haplotypes, and potential health risks not representative of the true Standard Poodle gene pool. Including these dogs in diversity databases may distort the data, mislead breeding choices, and ultimately undermine efforts to preserve the breed as it was intended.”

🐩 Why Genetic Diversity Matters for Standard Poodles

Preserving the Standard Poodle means more than producing pretty dogs with correct coat and adorable faces. At SPFL, we believe every litter starts with a purpose: to honor the breed’s history while safeguarding its future through health, structure, temperament, and vitality.

Thanks to advances in canine genetic research, ethical breeders now have powerful tools to guide smarter decisions—tools that help reduce inherited disease, extend longevity, and preserve the poodle’s purpose for generations to come.

🔬 What Is Genetic Diversity in Dogs?

Genetic diversity refers to the variety of genetic material present within a breed or population. In simple terms, it’s a measure of how genetically similar or different dogs are from one another.

Why does this matter? Low diversity, caused by inbreeding or genetic bottlenecks, can lead to:

• Weakened immune systems

• Increased risk for disease

• Reduced fertility or litter viability

• Shortened lifespan

Preservation breeders work hard to reduce these risks by balancing structure and type with genetic diversity.

📊 Pedigree COI vs. DNA-Based Diversity Testing

For decades, breeders have relied on the Coefficient of Inbreeding (COI)—a pedigree-based calculation of how closely related two dogs are.

But COI is only an estimate.

That’s where DNA-based diversity testing comes in. Tools like the UC Davis Veterinary Genetics Laboratory (VGL) Canine Diversity Test and BetterBred’s analysis measure the actual genes a dog inherited, offering deeper insight than pedigrees alone. These tests assess:

• Immune system diversity (DLA haplotypes)

• Genomic inbreeding

• Genetic compatibility between mates

📍 At SPFL, we’ve been using this DNA-based testing since 2018 to make informed, thoughtful breeding decisions.

📈 What Is AVK and Why Does It Matter?

If you’ve explored the Poodle Pedigree Database (based in Germany), you may have seen something called AVK — short for Ahnenverlustkoeffizient, or ancestor loss coefficient.

AVK measures how many unique ancestors appear in a dog’s pedigree. A higher AVK (closer to 100%) means greater pedigree variety, which typically reflects lower inbreeding. For example:

• AVK of 100% = All ancestors in the pedigree are unique.

• AVK of 87.5% = One or more ancestors appear more than once.

AVK doesn’t replace DNA testing—but it does give us a big-picture view of pedigree diversity. Used together, AVK and genomic analysis help breeders strike the balance between breed type and breed health.

🧠 SPFL’s Genetic Testing Philosophy

At Standard Poodles of Forest Lakes, we use multiple tools to support our mission:

• CHIC Certification through OFA (hips, eyes, heart, thyroid)

• DNA disease panel (over 200 tests, including PRA, DM, vWD, NEwS, rcd4, etc.)

• DLA diversity and inbreeding analysis via VGL + BetterBred

• Pedigree analysis and AVK metrics

These tools help us make intentional breeding choices—with each pairing carefully designed to reduce risk, maintain soundness, and preserve the Standard Poodle’s remarkable versatility.

🐾 We’re not just breeding for one great dog—we’re building for a healthier future.

🚫 Why We Do Not Support Intervariety Breeding

At SPFL, we are committed to preserving the integrity of the Standard Poodle as its own variety. While all three sizes of poodles—Toy, Miniature, and Standard—share a common origin, they have diverged significantly over time in terms of structure, temperament, and purpose.

We do not support intervariety breeding (e.g., Miniature to Standard) because:

• It introduces inconsistencies in size, structure, and temperament.

• It can disrupt health tracking, as diseases expressed in one variety may not appear the same way in another.

• It compromises the breed type and purpose that careful preservation breeders have worked to maintain.

Our goal is to honor the Standard Poodle’s legacy by breeding within variety—focusing on genetic diversity within the standard population, not across size types.

💬 What This Means for Future Puppy Families

You don’t have to be a geneticist to appreciate the value of a well-bred poodle. But we believe in full transparency.

As an SPFL puppy buyer, you’ll receive:

• Clear explanations of your puppy’s pedigree and health background

• Access to CHIC numbers, AVK stats, and DNA health reports

• Support, education, and guidance for the lifetime of your poodle

We’re proud to invest in science-backed breeding practices that protect the breed we love—and give your future companion the healthiest start possible.

🔗 Learn More

Here are some trusted resources we use and recommend:

• 🔬 UC Davis Canine Genetic Diversity Testing

• 🧪 BetterBred: Canine Diversity Reports

• 📚 Poodle Pedigree Database (Germany)

• 🏆 OFA CHIC Certification for Poodles

• 💡 Poodle Club of America Health Testing Recommendations

📸 Want to see how we pair this science with sweet puppy faces?

Follow us on Facebook or browse our Health & Testing page to see real-world examples of how these tools help us raise poodles that are smart, sound, and stunning.

Questions? Comments? We’d love to hear from fellow breeders, future puppy families, or poodle lovers who want to learn more. Drop a comment below or contact us directly.

When I tell people I breed Standard Poodles, I often get the same response: “Oh, that must be so fun! You get to play with puppies all day!” And don’t get me wrong—there are plenty of fun opportunities with puppies. But if you think this life is all wiggly tails and puppy breath, buckle up. Breeding and showing dogs isn’t just a hobby; it’s a full-time passion that requires every ounce of commitment, planning, and (let’s be honest) caffeine I can muster.

The Title Hustle

Here’s the thing about showing dogs: you don’t just stroll into a ring, wave a treat, and collect a ribbon. Getting a title means endless preparation. Training, grooming, traveling—it’s a grind. And I’m all-in. My dogs don’t just dabble in conformation; they dominate. We start with UKC, building confidence (and shiny Grand Champion titles) before they step into the big leagues of AKC. Since I work full time, I partner with a second-generation poodle breeder and handler. It’s a system that works, even if it means juggling show schedules with work and late-night conditioning and grooming sessions.

Every title we earn isn’t just a trophy for the shelf—it’s a testament to my dogs’ quality, training, and temperament. It’s validation that all my careful planning is paying off.

The Health-Testing Extravaganza

Ask any ethical breeder, and they’ll tell you: health testing isn’t optional. It’s mandatory. My dogs undergo more tests than most people see in a lifetime. Hips, cardiac, thyroid, eyes, complete genetic panels—the works. I’m not just looking for dogs that pass; I’m searching for dogs that excel. It’s a lot of paperwork, expenses, and vet visits, but ensuring my puppies start life on the right paw is non-negotiable.

Investing in my own testing tools has paid off since I can do immunology titers, progesterone, thyroid TSH and T4, and more from home. I also invested in an ultrasound to see the pups in the womb and to check on my girls when delivery stalls. Last but not least, I invested in an incubator and oxygenator to give pups their best chances, especially any that are at risk like my recent “preemie”.

Testing isn’t glamorous, but it’s essential. It’s what separates breeders who prioritize the future of the breed from those who just… breed.

Pedigree Detective

Some people binge-watch true crime shows; I dig into pedigrees. A great pedigree isn’t just a list of names; it’s a story of lineage, health, and potential. I’ve studied lines for years, and learned from my mentors, mapping out how structure, temperament, and health flow through generations. There’s no room for guessing.

Planning a litter isn’t throwing two pretty dogs together. It’s analyzing structure, movement, balance, and compatibility like a mad scientist. It’s not unusual to find me sprawled out with stacks of pedigree charts, muttering about COIs (coefficient of inbreeding) and dreaming about the perfect front assembly.

The Next Generation

Breeding isn’t about what I want—it’s about what the breed needs. Every puppy I raise represents years of work, planning, and care. I’m raising the next generation of champions, companions, service dogs, and therapy heroes.

And that’s the magic. Knowing that the hours spent studying and testing, the weekends at shows, and the endless planning does create dogs that not only meet the standard but exceed it.

Why I Do It

I’m all-in because I believe in this breed. I believe in preserving their health, beauty, and intelligence. I believe in raising puppies who will change lives.

Yes, it’s hard work. It’s expensive, exhausting, and sometimes heartbreaking. But when I see my dogs move effortlessly around the ring or watch a puppy I bred excel as a service dog, every late night, every sacrifice, every ounce of effort becomes worth it.

This isn’t just a job or a hobby; it’s my calling. And I wouldn’t have it any other way.

So, the next time someone asks if breeding is just playing with puppies, I’ll smile and think, “Sure, if puppies come with pedigree charts, health tests, and a full tank of gas for the next dog show.”