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<\/figure>\n\n\n\nThose tools are valuable \u2014 but they are not the whole picture.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Some traits and problems simply cannot currently be DNA-tested away. They have to be followed through long-term observation of families, lines, and breeding outcomes across generations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Things like:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n \u2026often require historical knowledge of lines, not just modern genetic reports.<\/p>\n\n\n\n And in an international breed like the Silken Windhound, this becomes even more important because cosmetic practices and different breeding traditions may hide or obscure information that later becomes relevant in countries where those practices are not permitted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Rear dewclaws are one example many European breeders have now encountered unexpectedly, despite generations without visible dewclaws in Europe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The same applies to certain reproductive or congenital issues that may only become visible years later, when lines are combined in new ways.<\/p>\n\n\n\n None of this means we should stop importing, or stop cooperating internationally. But it does mean that preserving and sharing long-term line knowledge matters enormously \u2014 especially in a small global population.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n Ask before you act!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Anyone planning an import or a breeding must ask questions before making decisions. Not afterwards. Extensive experience in other breeds, decades spent breeding other breeds, being a veterinarian, judging qualifications, sporting and training experience, DNA results and a clean-looking pedigree do not<\/strong> replace knowledge of Silken Windhound lines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Contact several people who know the dogs, their close relatives and the lines behind them\u2014not only the person selling the dog or owning the intended stud. Ask what has occurred in siblings, half-siblings, previous offspring and related litters. Never assume that silence means there is nothing to know. Information cannot reach someone who never asks for it.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Research carried out after a puppy has been purchased or a litter has been born is too late. By then the decision has already been made, the risk has already been taken\u2014and the puppies may be the ones who pay the price.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n DNA testing is a tool. But responsible breeding still depends heavily on honest historical knowledge, transparency, and breeders willing to discuss not only strengths, but also recurring weaknesses within lines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n Last, but not least. If you are going to spend money on an import with the intention of breeding, with all the extra costs that are involved, do yourself a favor.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Buy an adult. Not a puppy!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Yes it will be more expensive but there are several advantages<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Quite the opposite.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
COI is a tool.
Pedigrees are a tool.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A Pro tip<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n