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At
Vinita the goal is to produce a dog which is sound both mentally and physically
-a dog which is as clear of hereditary problems as we can possible ensure through
rigid genetic testing. The Vinita Sheltie must be a structurally sound dog
with a correct outline and proper front and rear angulation. Body balance
is of utmost importance so no one part is exaggerated beyond the other parts.
Too much neck is just as much of a fault to me as too little. REAR structure is very important to me as I do not like weak rears that do
not self stack naturally at
all times by being four square without human intervention. Perhaps the most
important aspect of the dog is what I see in his eyes when he looks back at me -
there must be a soul there. Not a blank stare, but a true feeling of connection
between me and my dogs. This is evident in dogs who have correct eye shape and
placement. Correct flat skulls and level head planes are critical along with proper depth and finish of underjaw. I do not require all the muzzle to
be there in young dogs - I prefer to see the filling and rounding of a
muzzle that comes with age and maturity. Head planes and eye placement are
either there or they are not. The muzzle maturity and bone overall should come
on by age two, especially in the lines I am working with today. TOO RIPE TOO
SOON is a phrase I like to live by. Thus puppy flyers are not my goal.
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