Hi,
I'm hoping someone can answer some questions. I have had and shown Australian Shepherds my whole life, but was too young to remember when the right time to get certs. is. I have a 6 month old Great Dane pup that I will later find a champion mate for and breed. However, I don't believe in doing this unless every certification is passed and genetic testing is done. I want the best quality breeding possible. Is it too soon to get OFA and CERF prelimbs done?? When will be the best time to get a certification on this that will stick? Also any other testing that is applicable. I want it all done! That way, say, if her hips do not pass she can be spayed and used only as our family pet. If there are any other Great Dane breeders out there, any other info would be great as well :].

Hi again

It is nice to see somebody on here for a change asking how to do things right. I am sick of seeing posts by people asking why their 6 month old bitch won't stand for their 8 month old stud dog!

Here are a few links that should help you. Do you have a breed mentor?

Great Dane Club of America - CHIC

Great Dane Club of America - Health and Welfare

Great Dane Club of America

It includes a link to the GDCA as well as health testing info... I also recommend talking a look at the color genetics section on there as it is very important in yoru breed.

Thank you so much!!! I know...I was reading some posts and was just absolutely appalled by some of the things on here! Some people have no business owning dogs if they're going to treat them that way (10 month old pups pregnant!) No I do not have a breed mentor. Not really sure what you mean by that. I was reading some things on color of danes. My dane is considered an "almost mantle". Not desirable for show. However, her confirmation and gait is beautiful and the only things different from some of the colorings they like is that she doesn't have as much white on her muzzle and stop, and a white neck as regular mantles do. Should I not think about breeding her due to this or should later on I be ok if I have a show male or champion stud (given that certs pass)? Her ears, shape of head, and all the other stuff is looking pretty good. Or would you suggest buying another female that is fully show desirable?

In all ideals we want to try to breed for "perfect" dogs therefore breeding a dog with a known fault (be it conformation, temperament or color) is not advised. However I do not know enough about color genetics to know if it would be possible to "fix" this is subsequent generations or not. This would be something to ask your breed mentor.

A breed mentor is a breeder who you can talk to, ask questions, etc. Somebody who has been breeding and showing for a long time that can help you get started and point you in the right direction. They can help you with health clearances, evaluating your dogs, etc.

I would go to some shows and talk to breeders there.

Awesome! Thanks so much for your info!