Evolution Boxers & Mini Bulls

The Bull Terrier
By Rick Beachamp

During the late 1980s, Bud Light spokesdog, Spuds McKenzie, helped popularize his breed, the bull terrier. Bull terriers were developed in mid-19th century England around the time the first recorded dog shows were held there. Developed by James Hinks, the breed, originally known as a bull-and-terrier, was bred for the then-legal 'sport' of pit fighting. A number of different species of dogs contributed genes to the bull terrier's development, creating a dog whose toughness and determination became legend. Eventually two varieties were recognized: standard and miniature. Despite their unprepossessing looks, bull terriers have many attractive virtues. In some ways, Spuds McKenzie captured the best of the bull terrier's personality: the confidence, courage and loyalty, characteristics that far outweigh the bullie's drawbacks for those who understand the breed.

Spuds

Spuds MacKenzie, the original party animal, made his debut in a Bud Light beer commercial during the Super Bowl in 1987. Spuds, who also functioned as senior party consultant for the Anheuser-Busch Company, purveyors of Bud Light beer, was an affable rake with an egg-shaped face and a black circle around one eye. He became a marketing sensation almost faster than you can say, "This Spuds' for you." Nearly every time you turned on a sporting event on the tube, there was Spuds -- water skiing, skateboarding, lounging by a pool with a bevy of beautiful women or doing something else that was more glamorous than what you were doing. His image and likeness appeared on T-shirts, sweaters, mugs, posters and stuffed animals, outfacing those of other popular television creatures of the time, including the redoubtable ALF and mighty Max Headroom.

Whiter Shades of Pale

The omnipopular Spuds MacKenzie was a bull terrier, a breed developed in England during the middle of the 19th century about the time the first recorded dog shows were held there. One of the most prominent exhibitors at that time was James Hinks of Birmingham, who made a comfortable living selling dogs. Among the several breeds for which Hinks was known was the bull-and-terrier. This breed, which is no longer in existence, was the product of an arranged marriage calculated to combine the bulldog's courage, tenacity and high threshold of pain with the now-extinct black-and-tan terrier's lightning speed, agility and unsurpassed ratting instinct. The result was an extremely rugged dog well suited for the "sport" of pit fighting, which was legal and popular in England until the early 1800s and which remained popular even when it was no longer legal.

The bull-and-terrier could best be described as downright ugly. Its legs were bowed, its neck and head were short and thick, its body was low-slung and clumsy looking, and it came in a variety of smutty colors. This was a combination only dog fighters and rat (or badger) hunters could love.

Beneath the bull-and-terrier's clock-stopping appearance, however, lay an exceptional combination of traits, not the least of which was an unfaltering devotion to its owner. James Hinks decided, therefore, to create a bull-and-terrier whose looks would better reflect its noble character.

When Hinks set about this task, he enlisted the aid of the white English terriers in his kennel. These dogs, whiich are also now extinct, were elegant of line, graceful of bearing and straight of leg. Eventually Hinks was able to make smooth the misshapen form of the bull-and-terriers and to establish in its place the more graceful lines of the white English terrier, albeit with more bone and muscularity than the white terrier possessed.

The homely improvements bestowed by the white terrier also extended to color. The new bull- and-terriers were more attractively marked, usually on a white ground color, and before long Hinks and the breeders who assisted him in his mission produced dogs that were substantially white.

Beauty's Only Skin Deep

Fighting-dog purists scoffed at this new look and complained that prettying up the stalwart bull-and-terriers would rob them of their pugnacity, which was their crowning virtue. To prove his critics wrong Hinks sent his female Puss, who weighed but 40 pounds, out to do battle with a 60-pound female of the old-fashioned type in London in 1862. A five-pound note and a case of champagne rode on the outcome of the match. In fewer than 30 minutes Puss dispatched her opponent while suffering no more than a few minor scratches on her own elegant self. According to one writer Puss went off to take a red ribbon in a conformation class at a legitimate dog show later in the day. (Another writer claims that Puss took the top prize that day.)

As time progressed, Hinks and other aficionados of the new bull-and-terrier added a drop of Dalmatian blood here, a dollop of greyhound there, perhaps a few dashes of Spanish pointer, too, and, some say, even foxhound. There is also evidence of a borzoi cross entering the mix along the way, that evidence revealing itself in the convex profile of the bull terrier's head. The final result of Hinks and company's makeover of the old bull-and-terrier was a dog that came to be known simply as the bull terrier, a breed with a unique look that fanciers to this day would call handsome rather than beautiful.

The Big and Small of It

Before he died in 1878 James Hinks had placed his breeding stock in the hands of other fanciers. Ten years after Hinks' death the first breed standard for bull terriers was published by the newly formed Bull Terrier Club in England. The breed caught the fancy of Americans as well, and the bull terrier was recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1895.

For a number of reasons that obtained during the bull terrier's development, size has varied so considerably in the breed that a movement eventually began in England to separate bullies into two sizes -- standard and miniature. The AKC recognized the size differential in 1992, and the United Kennel Club, which had recognized the bull terrier in 1948, approved the distinction in 1993. Although the two divisions -- standard and miniature -- are considered separate and distinct breeds, the only desirable difference between them is size. Miniature bull terriers should be 10 to 14 inches at the shoulder. The standard variety, while it doesn't have to fall within a prescribed range of heights beyond 14 inches, should posses substantial bone and substance. As a point of comparison, the standard bull terrier usually stands about 22 inches at the shoulder and weighs fewer than 60 pounds.

No matter what their size, bull terriers come in either white, with minimal head markings allowed, or colored. The colored version is heavily marked with one of a variety of acceptable colors on the head and body. Those differences aside, both standard and miniature bull terriers, white or colored, should have a long, egg-shaped head, erect ears, small, triangular eyes, cobby body, broad chest, well-sprung ribs and short, hard, slick, easy-to-care-for coat.

A Character In Its Own Right

The bull terrier look is undeniably unique but no more unique than the charismatic temperament of this engaging breed. The well-bred bull terrier is confident, courageous, good-natured and loyal to a fault. Most bull terriers have lived down their blatantly aggressive temperaments and will tolerate other dogs briefly, but woe to the dog that even thinks about challenging a bullie to a fight. The breed has lost none of its ability in that department. For this reason a bull terrier should always be exercised on leash or in areas where there are no other dogs or small animals present.
Most dog books will confidently insist at some point that the only thing more enjoyable than owning one of the breed under discussion is owning two. This does not apply to the bull terrier! The bullie needs no other companions besides you and your family. Some bull terriers get on famously with other dogs, but there is no reason to risk awakening the bellicose heritage that exists in even the most placid members of the breed.

Most bull terriers love well-behaved children (although bullies seriously resent being teased) and also do beautifully with the elderly. The bullie who is not accustomed to the young or the elderly, however, should be supervised closely so that accidents do not occur.

It is virtually impossible to describe the playfulness and the unrivaled sense of humor the bull terrier possesses, but a longtime friend of mine who owns bull terriers probably captured it better than anyone I know: "They fall somewhere between Noel Coward and Robin Williams," he said, "with, perhaps, a cement mixer thrown in for good measure."

Long Live Spuds

Spuds MacKenzie's popularity wasn't diminished a drop when some enterprising reporter discovered that the dog who played Spuds in commercials was really a she, a female bull terrier named Honey Tree Evil Eye. Budweiser officials were at great pains to conceal that information from the public, even using their coats to shield Spuds from cameras when she answered a call of nature, but eventually word leaked out.

Although Spuds' gender bending didn't drain his popularity with his following, he wasn't everyone's cup of brew. Some groups took offense at his hail-fellow-well-met endorsement of the high life. In 1989 the Center for Science in the Public Interest charged that Anheuser-Busch commercials appealed to people under the legal drinking age. Spuds also brought down the wrath of school officials and Mothers Against Drunk Driving, and as a result his career ended prematurely in 1989.

Spuds, who was six when he was retired to his North Riverside, Illinois, home, died there four years later of kidney failure on or about his birthday, May 31. Before his death he had undergone dialysis for a time.
"The criticism, I remember it," said one marketing official after Spuds' demise. "It really wasn't accurate at all. Most people saw the idea for what it was - a joke, an over-the-top joke. I just wish some people would have a sense of humor."

That's a wish one never has to make regarding the bull terrier.

Who's the Boss?

Its sterling qualities and merry outlook notwithstanding, the bull terrier is not a "home alone" dog. A bull terrier with too much time on its hands may engage in destructive behavior and develop neurotic quirks. Moreover, the bullie's desire for human companionship and its intense devotion to its owner will not prevent it from challenging for the dominant position in the family pack. This kind of behavior must never to be tolerated even during puppyhood when "games" of growling and biting may appear cute. Nipping any of these attempts at dominance in the bud is imperative. It is much easier to convince the little rebel to change its ways than it is to reason with a 50- or 60-pound adult accustomed to deciding things for itself.

Obedience training is highly recommended for the bull terrier and its owner. The latter should understand, however, that a bull terrier considers the repetition of boring exercises -- like sit and stay — a nuisance and may well get up and walk away if lessons become too repetitive. Short, frequent sessions work much better in training a bullie.

Health

Bull terriers are, by and large, a healthy breed, but like all pedigreed animals they are plagued by certain maladies. Deafness has been known in the breed from its inception, and although deafness predominately occurs in white puppies, every bullie sold should have been evaluated by the BAER (Brainstem Auditory Evoked Response) test. Puppies as young as 5 weeks old can be screened by this technique.

Bullies may also suffer from luxating patella, a dislocation of the small, flat, moveable bone at the front of the knee. Luxating patella is an inherited tendency that can be aggravated by excess weight. This condition can be corrected by surgery. Adults bullies should be tested by a veterinarian and certified free of luxating patella by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals before they are used for breeding.

Two kidney conditions that prospective buyers should be aware of are renal dysplasia and hereditary nephritis. The former causes incomplete kidney development during the first few weeks of life and results in early renal failure. The latter, which can strike anywhere between the ages of 2 and 7 years, results in progressive kidney failure. Both conditions are invariably fatal.

Breeders who have had broad experience with raising bull terriers can help prospective buyers locate the dog that best suits their needs -- as size and temperament exist over a broad spectrum in the breed. An aggressive, extremely large male bull terrier would not be the best choice in the world for anyone who does not have the muscle power to cope properly with such a strong dog. Some bull terriers are much more reticent than others and would be more suitable for a quiet person and a calm household.

MBT Trivia Questions:

In order to produce genetically healthier adults, what are the four health tests recommended of MBT’s by the national club, (especially breeding pairs)?
What does PLL stand for and where can I find a list of PLL MBT's on the web?
Which UK sire, (known as Bodger), is the most common in MBT pedigrees, 6 to 8 generations back, worldwide? (Hint: his sire, Ch Beewau Enterprize, was famous as well).
Does a white MBT also have a “color” underneath?
What does “interbred” mean with reference to MBT’s?
Which were the first MBT’s imported to Australia?
Which English MBT kennels are historically known as the primary sources of exports for American, Australian, and the rest of European pedigrees?
What year was the “Remer” book written?
Who wrote the MBT chapter in the 1989 book, “The New Bull Terrier”?
What was the name of the Larry McArthur Kennel in the USA, which began in 1961?
What MBT foundation kennel in the UK is the only one currently with a website?
In what working sports do MBT’s not compete? Name 5 other "non-conformation" events in which a MBT's do compete.
What is the name of the first film by Tim Burton--about a Bull Terrier brought back to life?
Who is the author of the “Earthdog Bible”? (Also, how long are the tunnels required to be for completing a Master Earthdog AKC title)?
What was the name of the 1976 TV series starring Robert Conrad, with a Bull Terrier named Meatball? (Also, episode #7 of the series was dedicated to Meatball…what was it called)?
What is the title of the 1990 French film about an evil Bull Terrier?
In the Disney film of 1963, Incredible Journey, what was the Bull Terrier’s name?
Alaska has a monument to a Bull Terrier. What is it called?
Who is the professional researcher currently directing the Tufts research on Bull Terrier Spinning, Trancing, OCD and Aggression?
Where can a MBT fan buy a T-Shirt, mug, or bumper sticker off of the web with a recent MBT picture?
Who is the kennel that produced the highest record winner MBT for Challenge Certificates? (What dog held the record before this)?
What USA kennel lists the MBT Breeder Directory alphabetically by state, on his/her website?
In 2006, what two American kennels fostered/showed/studded the two “top” MBT imports over the last two years (one from Spain and the other from Brazil)? Also, what were the two dog’s respective names?
What Australian MBT/BT kennel was very influential in inspiring Joy Schafer to start her very popular Schardale Kennel with her commonly exported Australian MBT’s?
Int., UK Ch. Spitewinter Spokesman, a prominent international sire in MBT breeding programs, boasts what famous grandfather? In which two prominent European MBT kennels did "Spokesman" live, outside of the UK?
What is the name of the accepted canine online directory which shows certification for health testing, such as heart, eyes, and kidneys?
Where can I purchase a Bull Terrier shaped nightstand lamp?
Where can I find the largest MBT/BT pedigree search engine?
What pedigree search engine includes MBT pictures in the pedigree too?
AKC alphabet soup: What do the AKC titles stand for, including: AOM, CGC, RI, AX, ME, TDI or OAJ?
What is a good source/reference for training Mini Bull Terriers?
What are the call names for some of the following famous sires: Kilacabar Rolling Thunder; Warbonnet Hyperion; Spitewinter Spokesman?
Who is the breeder/owner of the Justeph Kennels in England?
What are the registered names of the following popular American MBT’s: Snuffy, Smudgie, Greg, Moe, Van, Bud, Demi, Stache, Danny, Rico, Luke, Bubba, Joey, Casper and Crackers?
What are the registered names of the following popular imported MBT’s: Sherry, Alu, Uncas, Archie, Roc, Sal, and Effy.
R. H. Oppenheimer penned an authoritative Bull Terrier book in 1964 which was a standard for breeders. It is quite rare and ranges in price (if you can find a copy) from $185 to $300 USD!!! What is the book’s name?
Who is credited as the founder of Bull Terriers and MBT’s in the 19th Century?
What is the name of the now famous 19^th century Bull Terrier bitch, who, at 40 pounds, “soundly trounced” a 60 pound challenger, and then went on to win in a conformation show later in the day?
When was the first Miniature Bull Terrier Club founded--worldwide? (In what country?)
What “now extinct class” of Bull Terriers were last shown in 1922 at Westminster?
Richard Glyn, the “President” of the first Miniature Bull Terrier Club, bred dogs weighing about how much?
Who is today’s (2006) most well recognized American MBT competing agility champion?
What World War 2 American General owned a Bull Terrier named Willie?
Who is the original Target Dog?
Why did the 1980’s “Ultimate Party Animal” Spuds Mackenzie (aka: Honey Tree Evil Eye), finally lose his job?
Mrs. Ralph Gordon imported two UK minis into America in 1961 as a foundation pair; what were their names?
California started the MBTCA in the US in 1966 with what prominent kennel leading the charge?
What year was UK Ch Kirbeon Bandmaster born? How many litters did he sire?
What is the name of the yearly competition, first started in 1992, for determining the best American Bred MBT’s?
What 2 minis from Evolution Kennel’s ranked nationally in 2006 and were invited to the Eukanuba International Show?

Subject	Description
Genetic Health Issues MBT's	"Two categories of behavioral problems in Bull Terriers are aggression, and compulsive disorders. Owner perception of aggressive personality may be over estimated, if breeders are not diligent in screening perspective puppy buyers. If an owner is looking for a "Spuds MacKenzie" dog, but is not suited to a Bull Terrier personality, they may believe that their dog is aggressive. Bull Terriers are not Golden Retrievers, nor do we want them to behave like one. Many dog owners are not good candidates to own a Bull Terrier. On the other hand, there are Bull Terriers with poor temperaments; characterized by severe aggression towards people, towards other dogs, extreme shyness, or volatile "lashing out" behavior. These extreme behaviors have genetic components, and should be selected against. Compulsive behaviors, including spinning, tail biting, and flank sucking have been studied by Dr. Alice Moon-Fanelli at Tufts University. All of these behavioral disorders are related. Affected dogs can show several of these behaviors, and you can see multiple littermates affected with different behaviors. Based on electroencephalogram (EEG) examinations, and the response of affected dogs to different medications, there is some controversy as to whether these are true compulsive disorders, or petit-mal seizure disorders. Regardless, there is a strong genetic component to these behaviors, and this must be taken into account when considering breeding affected dogs or their close relatives. Deafness is a genetic disorder seen with some regularity in the Bull Terrier. Deafness is associated with the extreme piebald pigmentation gene, and is most common in white Bull Terriers. Researchers have found that a lack of pigment (melanin) cells reaching the inner ear in the developing embryo leads to collapse and death of the nerve cells required for hearing. While the quantity of embryonic pigment cells is genetically controlled, the migration of these cells to the developing inner ear occurs by chance. If there are fewer pigment cells, there is a greater chance that some may not reach one or both ears, thereby causing deafness. This explains why deafness does not have a simple inheritance. A problem with controlling deafness is that for every bilaterally deaf dog, there are far more dogs who are deaf in only one ear. It is almost impossible to distinguish these unilaterally deaf dogs from bilaterally hearing dogs without electrodiagnostic testing (BAER test). It has been shown that unilaterally deaf dogs produce as much deafness as bilaterally deaf dogs, and must be identified and selected against for breeding. Dogs can be certified normal by BAER test at 6 weeks of age, before placement in breeding or pet homes. " Practical Genetics for Bull Terrier Breeders and Owners Health Seminar presented to the Bull Terrier Club of America, October 10, 2002 Jerold S Bell, DVM, Tufts University School of Veterinary Medicine
National MBT Top 10 List --Year 2000	1--Gunzhof's Capt. Kirk O'Kirwin (Snuffy) 2--Ryatti's Whosie 3--Wildheart Erotica 4-Kingsmere Moondoggie (Smudge--Fergie's Great Grandsire) 5-Gridiron Galloping Ghost 6--Graystones Ali Amber 7--Large Marge Hammerhead 9--O'BJ Master Of Disaster 10--Gemmology Tiny Aussie
National Top 10 List 2002	1--Kingsmere Moondoggie (Smudge--Fergie's Great Grandsire) 2--Envision Registan Joker 3--Gunzhof's Capt. Kirk O'Kirwin 4--Crescent Amchara Sorcery 5--Native Sun's Simply Irresistable 6--Silverstone Landcaster 7--Merlin Of The Dutch Bull's Farm 8--Bullmoon's Jedi Knight (LUKE--Carlos, Vegas & Tootie's sire) 9--OBJ Becca Button 10--Gunzhof's Kirwin Uptosnuff
National Top 10 List 2003	1--Envision Registan Magnifica (Bud--Vegas puppies 2008) 2--Tecuya's Something To Talk About (Moe--Fergie's Grandsire) 3--Envision Registan Jacaranda 4--Tecuya's Sweet Miss Stache 5--Envision Registan Joker 6--Rambunctious Storm Watch 7--Graystone Robert Red Furred 8--Kingsmere Moondoggie (Smudge--Fergie's Great Grandsire) 9--Regency Irresistabull Msbhaven 10--Rambunctions Sea Chanty JE
National Top 10 List 2004	1--Ch Kinsmere Moondoggie (Smudge--Fergie's Great Grandsire) 2--Ch Tecuya's Something To Talk About (Moe--Fergie's Grandsire) 3--Ch Envision Registan Magnifica (Bud--Vegas puppies 2008) 4--Ch Regency Irresistabull Msbhaven 5--Ch Abwaj Tiny Joey Gold (Tinky) 6--Ch Envision Registan Macaroni 7--Ch Bonsai Moon Dancer (Van) 8--Ch Hellion's Midsummer's Cobweb 9--Ch Nedere's Moore Than Willis 10--Ch Graystone Robert Red Furred (Bud's half brother)
National Top 10 List 2005	1--Ch Kingsmere Moondoggie (Smudge--Fergie's Great-Grandsire) 2--Ch Traslafuente Uncas 3--Ch Tecuya's Something To Talk About (Moe--Fergie's Grandsire) 4--Ch Tecuya's Sweet Miss Stache 5--Ch Native Sun's Simply Irresistable (Katy--Fergie's Great Aunt) 6--Ch Nederes' Moore Than Willis 7--Ch Rambunctious Storm Watch 8--Ch Jiltrain Give Me A Clue 9--Ch Envision Registan Gossamer 10--Ch Haslemere's Eye Opener
National Top 10 MBT's list (through May 2006)	1)-Ch Traslafuente Uncas 2)- Ch Tecuya's Talkin Tough 3)- Ch Tecuya's Something To Talk About (Moe--Fergie's Grandsire) 4)- Ch Evolution's High Roller (Carlos) 5)- Ch Nederes' Moore Than Willis 6)- Ch Tecuya's Sweet Miss Stache 7)- Ch Evolution's Luck Be A Lady (Tootie) 8)- Bonsai Maid To Order 9)- Blue Run's Professor B. U. Farnsworth 10)- Ch Cambria's Don Juan
National Top Ten MBT (through Sept. 2006)	235 CH Traslafuente Uncas 128 CH Tecuya's Something To Talk About 63 CH Tecuya's Talkin Tough 49 CH Nederes' Moore Than Willis 43 CH Bonsai Sweet Child O'Mine 31 CH Nederes' Lucky Horseshoe 31 CH Evolution's Luck Be A Lady (Tootie) 29 CH Evolution's High Roller (Carlos) 29 CH Bonsai Maid To Order 24 CH Tecuya's Sweet Miss Stache
National Top Ten MBT's (through Dec. 31st 2006)	260 CH Traslafuente Uncas (from Brazil) A De Carvalho/J Grider/M Flaugh 158 CH Tecuya's Something To Talk About (Moe--Fergie's Grandsire) B Smith 72 CH Tecuya's Talkin Tough B Smith/F Smith-Milteer 53 CH Cambria's Don Juan D Guerrero 51 CH Nederes' Moore Than Willis T Gilbert/A Duff 48 CH Bonsai Sweet Child O'Mine M Dreyer 45 CH Bonsai Maid To Order J Grider/P Grider/M Flaugh/M Flaugh 43 CH Nederes' Lucky Horseshoe L Duncan 37 CH Evolution's Luck Be A Lady (Tootie #9) J Croninger/J Croninger 34 CH Bonsai Skip To My Alou G Simonds (winner Eukanuba & Westminster for 2006--Alou's son). 29 CH Evolution's High Roller (Carlos) T. Gisseman

Top British Bloodlines in "Theory of Evolution" (Duey's sired) litter:

__________World CH MADE TO MEASURE OF BULLYON (UK--PLL)
______UK CH MINIMAYHEM MASTER MINE (PLL)
__________BADLESMERE BURNING AMBITION (UK--PLL)
____JENKIR ONYX FROM JUSTEPH (UK)
__________JUSTEPH LITTLE HERCULES (UK)
______JUSTEPH RHAPSODY IN BROWN AT JENKIR (UK)
__________WILLOW THE WISP OF JUSTEPH (UK)
__TORERO HALLION (UK)
__________SPITEWINTER SCOUTMASTER (UK)
______ADMIRARI ACE VENTURA (UK)
__________ERENDEN LAST TANGO IN PARIS AT ADMIRARI (UK)
____ADMIRARI ALL ABOUT EVE AT BEWLEY (UK)
__________International Ch SPITEWINTER SPOKESMAN (UK)
______AMAZING GRACE AT ADMIRARI (UK)
__________BONJO'S LITTLE TASHIA (UK)
Bullistix Doubletake N' Evolution (Duey)
__________AUST. CH HONHAZSTA ROCK N ROLL (BT)
______STARMIN VULCAN AVENGER (Aust)
__________AUST. CH BULLDWARF BONSAI BULLY
____AUST. CH DRAGONBULL MR AVENGER
__________AUST. CH MOMOMAY MINI COMET
______AUST. CH FARINGDON TINY MEGASTAR
__________LESTER MINI DOT N DOTTY (IMP NZ)
__GEMMOLOGY GEST SPLENDED (Import Aust)
__________JAMIES BRIGHT STAR AT ISHABA (UK-BT)
______AUST CH ANOTHER HERO (IMP UK--BT)
__________DODGYS LITTLE GAL (UK--BT)
____STARDOM BELLA BLANCA (Aust interbred)
__________STARDOM BUBBA BE GOOD (Aust-BT)
______STARDOM BRINDABELLA (Aust--interbred)
__________STARDOM CROSS MY HEART (Aust--interbred)

In the past couple of years, the "top" Miniature Bull Terriers showing/producing in America would include 2 superb foreign dogs: one from Spain and one from Brazil. They are:

1) Champion titled: World, European, Spain, Holland, American, and Portugal Ch. and Best Male at Crufts (CC) 2002: Aluegoe Del Cornijal. He sired the 2006 Eukanuba MBT BOB Champion (and BOS) and the Westminster MBT BOB (and BOS) for 2007.

2) Champion titled :International, Grand Pan American , Brazilian and American? Ch. Traslafuente Uncas . Ranked #1 MBT in America in 2006, and #3 Terrier Group!

These two great producers have two grand-sires in common: the British World Ch. Made to Measure of Bullyon and the famous International Ch. Spitewinter Spokesman. For both "Uncas" and "Alu", both of their sire's father's are the same: Made to Measure, and for both Uncas and Alu, both of their dam's sire's are the same: Spokesman! In this way, both have a very similar pedigree.

Our own stud dog Duey, (Bullistix Doubletake N Evolution), similarly, has both Ch. Made to Measure of Bullyon, and Ch Spitewinter Spokesman as his GG Grandsire, and also doubles up with Made to Measure's sire in Duey's own Great Grandsire, in Admirari Ace Ventura. (see his pedigree above).

We hope to bring some of their great winning features back to life with his "Theory of Evolution" litter from 6/26/06. Duey was bred to our Evolution's Believe It Or Not, CGC. She has a nice track record so far with producing nice litters. She is pointed as well. Her first litter, a litter of five, (with Ch. Bullmoon's Jedi Knight, AOM), produced 3 champions! Ch. Evolution's Luck Be A Lady, AOM (Tootie..ranked #9 nationally in 2006), and Ch. Evolution's High Roller (Carlos ranked #11 nationally 2006), and Ch. Evolution's Pair A Dice (Vegas)!

With her 2nd litter--Duey's litter--we have three show prospects, one already won BIS in December 2006 at an International Puppy Show in Arizona! This one is Evolution's Tinker With Eden (Pegeene). Look for our other two males in the show ring for 2007--from Virginia, Ch Evolution's Mendellian's Mayem, AOM (Howie), and in California, Evolution's Sir Rival Of the Fittest (Ace). Howie already has been honored with an AOM at the 2007 Kentuckiana! He also recently finished his AKC Champion title at the 2007 MBTCA Nationals.

Unfortunately, both "Made to Measure" and "Spokesman" have produced genetic eye problems, which is not uncommon in Mini Bulls. "Made to Measure" actually did luxate himself, while some of Spokesman's litters have had eye problems. As breeders, we are all waiting for the research studies to finally discover a genetic marker. The studies have been under way for a few years now, and researchers have predicted that a marker will be discovered soon!

We hope to insulate against this problem with Duey's Dam's Austrailian "Interbred" lines. The Australian Kennel Club allowed the breeding of highly selected and qualified standard (large size) Bull Terriers with the Mini Bulls. They are considered separate breeds by the AKC. The offspring is required to be registered as a Miniature Bull Terrier. Duey's dam is a product of this process, called Inter-breeding. As a result, some of Duey's pups have been a little tall though, one is nearly 17 inches tall, but this is not unusual among MBT litters. In fact, the National Club Winner for 2006 was also this tall.

Good luck to the Evolution show pups, Pegeene, Ace, and Howie for the rest of the 2007 show season!

"...you just don't expect to hear sounds like that coming from a dog".

(Year 2007) We asked our puppy owners from the Theory of Evolution litter to tell us some of the funny things their minis are doing, and we recieved this reply back from Kathleen Smith (Patronus Kennel). Tiff and I both thought it was hilarious! Enjoy.

"I take all the dogs out one at a time last thing before bedtime, with the floodlights on in the backyard. Without fail, Howie runs straight up to the fence and barks at his shadow. Hackles up, all in terrier mode, fiercely protecting his house. I have to go out to where he is and move him to the middle of the yard, where his shadow doesn't cast on the fence. Then he does his business and apparently forgets that the evil shadow monster was threatening his existence mere minutes before.

On the more bizarre side, he loves to lick my big cat's belly. Crookshanks is 22 pounds, and he tends to lay on his back - in doorways where he is the biggest pest, and gets tripped over often. When Howie is coming in or going out of the doorway, he likes to stop and lick Crookshanks' belly, which needless to say annoys Crookshanks to no end. Howie thinks its a hoot, his tail usually wags non-stop even when he gets cat-slapped for being so offensive. The downside to this is that he often sports cat scratches on his nose, which are a problem when its time to show!

Howie is also a talker. The sounds are hard to explain unless you've heard him do it. He makes high-pitched talking sounds pretty much the entire time he is awake (although he does it much less when on a leash for some reason). I have been asked by people on the phone with me if I own a pot-belly pig, and I have to tell them no, that's just Howie! Its hard not to laugh when you hear him talking, because you just don't expect to hear sounds like that coming from a dog. It took Lesalee [Envision Registan All Revved Up] a while to get used to it, he talks to her often and she used to bark back. Once she figured out that the sounds were from Howie and not some sort of piggy intruder, she stopped. Now she sits and tilts her head as he serenades her".

What Sire to Choose...

Question and answer by: John Armstrong, Ph.D., of the University of Ottawa dept. of Biology, a geneticist and a dog fancier, is currently engaged in a research project on canine longevity and its genetic components. Dr. Armstrong is head of the Canine Diversity Project and the list owner of the Cangen list (Canine Genetics list).

LS: Dr. Armstrong, a lot of breeders struggle when it comes to the genetic implications of conditions we see in our dogs, especially if we don?t have a background in scientific training. Earlier books on breeding that were directed to dog breeders advocated inbreeding and linebreeding as the preferred method. Almost every author stated that "doubling up" on the preferred traits would "fix" them and that by doing so, you would bring problems to the surface, where you could work to eliminate them. The stated goal was to "purify" your line in order to be successful. People followed this advice to a large degree because it seemed to make sense. But now, if you look around, breeds every where are in trouble. Genetic diseases seem rampant and even the popular press is full of articles criticizing purebred dog breeders. Why didn?t this work? Could you give us a brief explanation of how traits are inherited?

JA: When Mendel established the basic rules of genetics, he based his conclusions on a study of the inheritance of seven easily-recognized morphological traits in the pea ? things like height, flower color and seed color. There were two alternatives for each trait (tall vs. short, purple vs. white, etc), but neither was deleterious, and there were no other complications such as multiple alleles or incomplete dominance.

If we were breeding peas instead of poodles (or Boxers), the popular "type" might be tall with yellow seeds and purple flowers. If this were the overwhelmingly preferred type, some of the other phenotypes might eventually disappear. Would it matter if green peas disappeared? You might think "no" (unless you were particularly fond of green), but the answer is not that simple. It depends on what other genes are closely linked to these traits, how large the population is, and how rapidly this occurs.
All populations of sexually reproducing organisms have some genetic variation. In mammals, around 10% of the genes are estimated to be polymorphic. By that we mean that they have more than one common allele. Many of these are like the traits Mendel studied in the pea, resulting in phenotypic differences that do not impair survival and reproduction. Lets call these Group A variants (or mutants, if you prefer). The remaining 90% or so of the genes are also susceptible to mutation, but the mutant alleles are generally found at frequencies below 0.1% (1 in 1000) and are frequently deleterious (lets call these Group B)
All animals are believed to carry several deleterious recessive alleles. This is called "genetic load." The unanswered question is whether this is in the form of 3 or 4 recessive lethals, or a greater number of genes with alleles that diminish fitness but are not individually lethal when homozygous. This group may include subtle differences detectable only with sophisticated biochemical techniques.

When breeders, be they of peas or dogs, attempt to create a line (variety, breed), they are focused on a particular set of the visible (group A) traits. Ideally, none of these traits reduce fitness. If a breed is founded by 100 individuals, we should eliminate 90% or more of the group B mutations, but will boost the frequency of those carried by the founders by 10 fold or more. At frequencies now on the order of 1%, these should still not be a major problem. However, most populations are genetically smaller than the actual number of individuals due to unequal contributions. For example, if one popular sire services 10% of the available bitches, 10% of the males will not be bred, and their genes will be lost. If they include some alleles that are not well-represented in the breed, there is a risk these alleles may be lost. Even at the replacement level ? 2 progeny replacing 2 parents ? there is a 50% probability that one allele from each parent will not be carried by either of the progeny. If there is only one son or daughter, half of each parent's collection of genetic recipes will be lost. Of course if all were either lethal or harmless, we would not miss the former and the loss of the latter would only matter esthetically.

The need to maintain relatively large, diverse populations arises largely from the existence of mutations that diminish fitness by a small amount. The smaller the population, the greater the chance of one allele being fixed (taking over). If a mutation reduces fitness by only a small amount, the loss of the better allele may not be noticed. As suboptimal mutations accumulate over time, we may, however, begin to notice that our dogs don't live as long and are not as healthy as in the "old days". In a large population, there is less chance of any allele being fixed. Consequently, some individuals will be healthy, and some may not be, but as long as we do not favor the latter, the survival of the population should not be at risk.

LS: There seems to be increasing evidence that heterozygosity, especially with regard to immune system function, may be optimal for the overall health of an animal. How can breeders try to get the most diversity in things like the Major Histological Complex (MHC) without losing breed specific traits or traits particular to their own line that they value?

JA: With respect to the latter, the advice I always give Poodle breeders who ask which dog to breed to is to evaluate their own dog as objectively as possible with reference to the breed standard (or their vision of the ideal poodle). Then look at as many potential mates as possible evaluating them in the same way. Rank them in order of closest match to the most distant (which may not be the same as best to worst). It is alright to try for improvement, but avoid many and/or large differences. (You can't make a silk purse...). Give me your list and I will determine how closely they are related. Then the breeder has to decide how much weight to place on type and how much on health. In my opinion, little weight should be given to show titles and none to popularity or how impressive the pedigree looks. (If you want evidence that it works, read "Inbreeding and Diversity" at the Diversity web site.)
Breed specific traits should have been fixed when the breed was established. If they prove difficult to maintain, then something is wrong. You are probably trying to do something that goes against thousands of years of canine evolution. The look you want may be due to an inherently unstable combination of genes, particularly if the breed was established from dissimilar founders over a short period.

(from the American Boxer Club website)

English Bull Terriers and Mini's: What's good and bad about em'...

by Michele Welton

English Bull Terriers
Miniature Bull Terriers
What's good about 'em
What's bad about 'em
If you want a dog who...

-Is moderately sized with a muscular build
-Looks very unusual, with an egg-shaped head, large prick ears, and tiny triangular eyes sunk deeply in his head
-Gets a lot of attention from admirers where ever he goes
-Has a short easy-care coat
-Is rowdy and clownish, full of energy and fire, and VERY Funny
-Thrives on lots of exercise and vigorous athletic games
-Looks imposing, so makes an effective deterrent, but is usually non-aggressive with strangers
-An English Bull Terrier or Miniature Bull Terrier may be right for you.

If you don't want to deal with...

-Vigorous exercise requirements
-Rowdiness, exuberant jumping, and a tendency to play rough
-Destructiveness when bored or left alone too much
-Aggression or fearfulness toward people in some lines, or when not socialized enough
-Aggression toward other animals
-Strong-willed mind of his own, requiring a confident owner who can take charge
-Shedding
-Serious health problems
-Legal liabilities (public perception, future breed bans, insurance problems, increased chance of lawsuits)
An English Bull Terrier or Miniature Bull Terrier may not be right for you.

When considering a Bull Terrier (or Mini) my major concerns would be:

Providing enough exercise and mental stimulation. Bull Terriers, whether Standard or Miniature, are very active dogs who MUST have regular opportunities to vent their high energy and to use their busy minds to do interesting things. Otherwise they will become rambunctious and bored -- which they usually express by destructive chewing. Bored Bull Terriers are famous for chewing through drywall, ripping the stuffing out of sofas, and turning your yard into a moonscape of giant craters. (Recomended walking 40 min. per day at a "heel").

If you simply want a pet for your family, and don't have the time or inclination to take your dog running or hiking or biking or swimming, or to get involved in weight-pulling, or agility (obstacle course), or advanced obedience, or tracking, or a similar canine activity, I do not recommend this breed.

Bounciness. Young Bull Terriers (up to about three years old) can be bulls in a china shop. When they romp and jump, they do so with great vigor, and things can go flying, including people. Sometimes it can be very funny--other times annoying or dangerous.

If you have small children, or if you or anyone who lives with you is elderly or infirm, I do not recommend Bull Terrier puppies, especially the Standard size. The temptation to play roughly is simply too strong in many young Bull Terriers. They are like bumper cars!

Providing enough socialization is key. Many Bull Terriers love everyone, but some have protective instincts toward strangers. All Bull Terriers need extensive exposure to friendly people so they learn to recognize the normal behaviors of "good guys." Then they can recognize the difference when someone acts abnormally. Without careful socialization, they may be suspicious of everyone, which could lead to biting. Some Bull Terriers go in the opposite direction -- without enough socialization, they become fearful of strangers, which can lead to defensive biting. All Bull Terriers require puppy class!

Animal aggression can develop into a problem. Many Bull Terriers, especially the Standard size, will not tolerate another dog of the same sex. Some won't tolerate the opposite sex, either. Many Bull Terriers, both Standard and Miniature, have strong instincts to chase and seize cats and other fleeing creatures. If anything goes wrong in the breeding, socializing, training, handling, or management of these breeds, they are capable of seriously injuring or killing other animals. Breeders are usually careful that their pups go to the "right" homes.

The strong temperament in Bull Terriers must be directed. Bull Terriers are not Golden Retrievers. They have an independent mind of their own and are not pushovers to raise and train. They can be manipulative, and many are willful, obstinate, and dominant (they want to be the boss) and will make you prove that you can make them do things. You must show them, through absolute consistency, that you mean what you say. Some call this "Respect Training". Your 40 minute daily walks with the Bull Terrier on a "heel" will help with this.

Shedding is common. Bull Terriers shed much more than you might think. Their short, coarse hairs come off on your hands when you pet them, and stick tenaciously to your carpeting, upholstery, and clothing. In addition, people with sensitive skin may react adversely to the "pokes" of the harsh hairs.

Serious health problems. From heart disease to kidney disease to eye disease to deafness, Bull Terriers are risky in the health department.

To keep this breed healthy, I strongly recommend following all of the advice of your breeder, or someone in the national breed club (MBTCA).

Legal liabilities. Bull Terriers are NOT Pit Bull Terriers, but they are often lumped together by public officials and the media as potentially dangerous dogs. Boxers are also lumped in this group. Bull Terriers may be targeted for future "banning" in certain areas, or refusal of homeowner insurance policies. In this day and age, the legal liabilities of owning any breed that looks intimidating and has a fighting heritage should be seriously considered. People are quicker to sue if such a dog does anything even remotely questionable.

Frankly, most Bull Terriers, both Standard and Miniature, are "too much dog" for the average household. Very few people really have the knowledge or skills necessary to manage these fiery, and high-energy breeds, or to provide the activities that keep them satisfied.

Not all English Bull Terriers are alike!

There are energetic Bullies, and placid Bullies.
Hard-headed Bullies, and sweet-natured Bullies.
Serious Bullies, and good-natured goofballs.
Introverted Bullies, and Bullies who love everyone.

If you acquire a Bull Terrier puppy, you can't know for sure what he or she will grow up to be like. Because a good number of purebred puppies do NOT grow up to conform to the "norm."

If you're considering an adult Bull Terrier... There are plenty of adult Bull Terriers who have already proven themselves NOT to have negative characteristics. If you find such an adult, don't let "typical breed negatives" worry you.

When you acquire a puppy, you're acquiring potential -- what he one day will be. So "typical breed characteristics" are very important. But when you acquire an adult, you're acquiring what he already IS.

Miniature Bull Terriers on National TV!!!

Carlos and Vegas, from Evolution Kennel in Utah, are on cableTV--the HGTV channel (Home and Garden), Friday, May 25, 2007 at 5pm EST--mark your calendar!

While at the Eukanuba show in Long Beach, CA., November 2006, Evolution Kennel received a call from Brigham Cottom (our film-school pal) asking if he could use our mini bulls, Carlos and Vegas, for filming a segment for national TV! It was called "RV Road Home: Traveling the Pet-Show Circuit and More". We thought this would be fun, and since we had plenty of time, we decided that we would give it a go. Neither of us have had any film experience, but since Tiffanie is such a "Drama Queen" by nature, (I hope she doesn't read this), we figured that we could pull it off. The filming went on for about 5 hours and we were dragging at the end! We all had fun though, and our Minis looked quite funny with the cameras following them around and by the low camera angles.

Carlos (Ch. Evolutions High Roller) is the red smut male and his sister Vegas (Ch. Evolutions Pair A Dice) is the small white bitch in the segment. They are siblings to Joe and Jessica's brindle bitch, Tootie (Ch. Evolutions Luck Be A Lady, AOM) from Southern California. They are all from our Gambling Theme litter of five pups--from 2005.

Carlos was invited to the Eukanuba Show but little Vegas just tagged along for support. Tootie was also invited to the Eukanuba Show but, unfortunately, was absent from this TV segment. Their collective sire is Luke (Ch. Bullmoons Jedi Knight, AOM, CGC) and their dam is Ripley (Evolutions Believe It Or Not, CGC,her lines coming from Hobbit Hills, Ryatti, Wonderbulls, and Sterlings MBTs).

While at the Eukanuba Dog Show, we ran into the famous Bull Terrier--Rufus (Ch Rocky Top's Sundance Kid)! He is the Best In Show Winner of the 2007 Westminster Dog Show! He was a larger version of Carlos--and somewhat better "put together" too.

INTRODUCTION TO THE MINIATURE BULL TERRIER By Kathy Schoeler (Graystone Kennel)

The character of the Miniature Bull Terrier is probably the
outstanding feature which draws prospective owners to the breed. A
typical Miniature Bull Terrier is active, interested, playful and
clownish. It is also extremely attached to its owners or family.
These all sound like attributes of the perfect dog, however there are
drawbacks to these characteristics which do not suit every
prospective owner or every situation.

Activity is a characteristic which is present in nearly every young
Miniature Bull Terrier. The young Miniature Bull Terrier is in fact
almost indistinguishable from a three-year-old child in a dog suit.
All puppies are extremely "busy" and many Miniature Bull Terriers
continue to be active and playful until well into middle age (5-6
years). Miniature Bull Terriers like to be "doing something." For
this reason they fit very well into active families where they
receive a great deal of companionship and supervision. They also
adapt well to quieter situations such as homes of elderly (but
active) retired persons who have a great deal of time to spend with
their dog. Miniature Bull Terriers do not do well in situations where
they are expected to remain alone in the home or yard for long
periods of time or where their physical activity is very restricted.
In these situations, very much like a three-year-old child, Miniature
Bull Terriers become bored and destructive. They will often chew end
destroy, are difficult or impossible to housebreak, and develop
unpleasant habits such as incessant barking, tail chasing and
peculiar personality quirks. It would make just as much sense to
leave a little boy alone in an apartment for eight or nine hours as
to do this with a Miniature Bull Terrier.

Miniature Bull Terriers become very attached to their owners and
their families. This usually makes them very good natural guard dogs,
but care must be taken that they are not encouraged to become
possessive and jealous. While this would seem a desirable attribute
for someone who wants a dog to protect his wife and family, it can be
a nuisance if the dog does not distinguish between acceptable
strangers and malevolent ones. Miniature Bull Terriers can also
become involved in the presence of violent physical activity such as
children's fist fights or exceptionally rough play activity where
they see no reason not to join in, either to play roughly (which,
with Miniature Bull Terriers, often includes nipping and knocking) or
to guard the family against the physical assaults of outsiders.
Miniature Bull Terriers like to join family activity and for this
reason require constant and firm discipline. They can be wonderful
with children if handled with common sense, both by the adults and
the children. Miniature Bull Terriers will tolerate a large range of
children's behavior but they will not tolerate being teased and can
be rough if constantly provoked. In their formative years, as do
children, Miniature Bull Terriers require large amounts of
supervision. They are tireless playmates and will chase balls, follow
the children and watch their games for hours.

Many Miniature Bull Terriers can and do enjoy the company other dogs
with certain exceptions. Male Miniature Bull Terriers who have not
been altered do not, as a rule, get along indefinitely with other
male dogs. There comes a time when one of the males must dominate,
and there is inevitable an unpleasant fight after which the two must
live entirely separately for life. A male and female Miniature Bull
Terrier can live together quite happily and two females often share
the same home. Again, care must be taken to jealousies do not arise.
It is not fair to expect an old Miniature Bull Terrier who has
enjoyed the full attention of the family to want to share with
another dog. This again is very similar to a young child who suddenly
finds himself confronted with a baby sibling-some care must be taken
to assure the older one that the youngster belongs to the whole
family.

Miniature Bull Terriers as with all breeds have breed specific health
problems. Lens Luxation is a problem that usually does not occur
until three years of age or older. Lens Luxation is where the lens
separates from the eyeball if not detected and treated early, will
cause total blindness. The treatment is usually the removal of the
affected lens. A dog can see without their lenses, though their
eyesight will be impaired. Heart defects as with many breeds,
occasionally affects the Mini. It is always a good idea to ask a
breeder for test results from a cardiologist of the sire and dam to
be sure that neither are affected with heart disease, and also ask
for current eye exam results.
Ask the breeder if they will guarantee the puppy to be free of
genetic health defects....if the breeder will not, contact another
that will.

The MBTCA is working hard to promote the health of the breed and
ethical breeding practices. A puppy should also be checked for
deafness as this does occasionally occur and is difficult for the
breeder to notice especially in a relatively young puppy. Another
occasional problem is some allergies. Certain insect bites, such as
fleas, ticks and sometimes mosquitoes and mites produce a generally
allergic response of hives, rash and Itching. This can be controlled
by keeping the dog free of contact with these insects, but this is
definitely a consideration in climate or circumstances where exposure
to these insects is inevitable.

Puppies up to a year of age are also susceptible to sudden lameness.
This is due to a combination of weight and density of the muscle,
rapid growth rate and the actual character of the breed. Great leaps,
sudden changes of direction or sudden stops at high speeds produce a
great deal of strain on the immature joints and ligaments of this
very muscular breed. The joints are simply not "set' enough to resist
the torque applied by the weight and musculature of the young dog.
For this reason young dogs should not be encouraged in this type of
activity until they are fully mature. Miniature Bull Terriers shed
their coats twice a year. The loose hair can be removed by a daily
rubdown with a special rubber glove.
Old age brings on the usual battery of infirmities to which Miniature
Bull Terriers are not immune. A Miniature Bull Terrier may well live
an active and healthy life until he is eleven or twelve which is
about the normal span of this breed.

Males and females vary only slightly in temperament. The unaltered
males tend not to tolerate prolonged association with other unaltered
males as previously noted. Undesirable tendencies based on the sex
drive can be remarkably reduced by spaying and neutering females as
well as males. There can be more difference in the temperament of
families of Miniature Bull Terriers than in general between the
sexes. Some families tend to be more possessive and less tolerant of
other dogs than others, and some families have a tendency to some
shyness and apprehension with strangers and in strange places. Some
families are very bright and innovative (which can be a mixed
blessing) and some are less intellectual and more placid.
A Miniature Bull Terrier which is acquired with future breeding in
mind should be selected for qualities of health, conformation and
temperament which will produce top quality puppies. The
responsibilities of breeding a litter of Miniature Bull Terriers must
be assumed by the owner of the Mother and it is very important that
they be adhered to faithfully if the breed is to be temperamentally
and physically sound.

The breeder of the litter should select a male for their bitch which
has excellent physical properties as well as a good temperament. Both
the bitch and sire should be up to date with tests for heart, eyes,
hearing and kidneys. A bitch or stud dog should not be bred if any of
the tests do not show normal results. The puppies must be placed in
homes suitable to the special needs and requirements of this breed.
This often means keeping puppies for months until suitable homes are
found. Puppy buyers should be encouraged to have their Minis assessed
by an authority before they breed them, and all females which are not
up to breeding quality should be kept as pets and not bred from.
Breeders should also be prepared to either take back dogs which they
have sold to homes which don't work out, or help owners of their
Miniature Bull Terriers place them in another suitable home.

Miniature Bull Terriers are unique in the spectrum of dogs. They have
been carefully selected and bred largely by responsible and caring
people who understand the legacy of their chosen breed. They can give
tremendous joy or wreck havoc depending on the time and effort spent
by their owners to control and develop their special character.
Kathy Schoeler

MBTCA Corresponding Secretary

1998

A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE MINIATURE BULL TERRIER IN AUSTRALIA

A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE MINIATURE BULL TERRIER IN AUSTRALIA

By Joy Schafer (Schardale Kennel in Australia)

In Australia the first Miniature Bull Terriers were imported into NSW in the latter part of 1965 by the then Vice President of The Bull Terrier Club, Mr Wally Webster in partnership with Mr John Peek. They were both brindle and white. The dog, Jetom Jasper (by Kirbeon Jaganath ex Sejainus Jannetta) was 10 months old and a bitch Jetom Jubiliant Tigress (by Regans Red Velvet ex Sejainus Juanita) was 18 months old. They were both of standard weight and height The standard at the time required the weight to be no more than 20lbs and the height 14 ins. Both were later to become Australian champions.

Messrs Webster and Peek first presented the two Miniatures at the Bull Terrier Club show held at Fairfield on the 12th September 1965. Their appearance created a tremendous amount of interest. Just out of quarantine, all were impressed by the temperament of these dogs. They were exhibited at the Royal Easter Show the following year where they both received a lot of attention from dog exhibitors and the general public alike.

Miniatures were shown at the Royal from 1966 through to 1968. There is no record of any after that till 1987 when Aust. Ch Erenden Roxana (imp UK) was exhibited and awarded BOB. They were exhibited at the Bull terrier Club shows in NSW from September 1965 through to September 1974. Judge for the September show was Mr George Holloway, this was to be the last appearance by the Miniatures, they were Earlwood Juvenile and Earlwood Jane both owned by Mr Wally Webster. It was not until 1987, some 13 years later, that the Miniature was to reappear at a Bull Terrier Club show where four were exhibited. Aust. Ch Jetom Jubiliant Tigress produced at total of 13 pups from six litters. The last registered litter was in February 1971 - a dog by Juvenile.

Unfortunately no more were imported and interbreeding of the Miniature and their bigger brethren was not allowed. This, together with a tragic kennel fire resulted in the breed in Australia dying out. In September / December 1986 the Bull Terrier (Miniature) was reintroduced to Australia with 2 imports from the UK, the first in 20 odd years. The first being Aust. Ch Grandopera Ottello of Warbonnet a tricolour dog (by Beewau Enterprise ex Knipes Arnebia) to Victoria by Prior & Georgina Oldridge (Minibull Kennels). He gained his Aust Championship title easily in June the following year.

The first to arrive on the NSW scene was Aust Ch Erenden Roxana JW, a black brindle bitch imported by schardale kennels. Roxana was bred by Eric and Valerie Allenden and was already well performed in the UK, having won her Junior Warrant, one CC and one reserve CC by the age of10 months. She was exhibited for the first time here at Blacktown KC on the 8th March 1987 where her bouncy personality (both in and out of the ring) attracted quite a lot of attention, most could not believe she had been out of quarantine only three weeks. On the 7th June that year she gained the final points for her Australian title, winning several classes in group awards along the way. One of the highlights of her career was her Best.

Exhibit in Show award at the British Terrier Club show in May 1987 under well known Terrier personality, Mr Adrian Walmsley. She made Australian history, being the first and only Mini at that time to ever to win Best in Show. She proved to be a great ambassador for the breed making friends wherever she went.

Early in 1987 three more minis were imported from the UK. In February, a white bitch, Graymor Greasepaint (Ch zedbees Zaristrocrat ex Graymore Guildenhall) to Victoria, by the Oldridges. A first cousin to Greasepaint, Graymor Grimshore ( Graymor Gandolf ex Graymor Gamebridge) was to join her in the following year. Following her in March came Erenden Upright Urlicia a white bitch carrying brindle imported by Schardale and Erenden Unctious Ullock a super headed solid coloured brindle male imported by Dr Warwick Mackay and his wife Anne. They, too, gained their Australian titles in a short time.

More English imports were to follow, all to NSW. Erenden Vodkatini (Erenden Gin Rickey ex Erenden Olivia) in 1988 again to Dr Mackay and his wife (Gloswaen Kennels), Erenden Boot Black (Ch Erenden Leopold ex Erenden Hammonds Ona) late in 1989 to Jessie Barrett's well established Faringdon Kennels and English Champion Erenden Whisky Sangaree JW (Erenden Gin Rickey ex Erenden Tiny Tuggem) to join Roxana at Schardale in early 1990. Sangaree had been Res CC at Crufts in 1989 and gained her Australian Title with ease.

There have been 16 imports in all - ten from the UK and six from New Zealand. These being NZ/Aust.ChLester Iti Mussy Muzpie (Schardale Master Erenden ex Gloswaen Mini Ariadne imp. Aust) in 1990 and Aust. ChLester Iti Pepper n Pepe (Ch.Coldstream Statesman imp.UK. ex Gloswaen Mini Bree imp.Aust.) in 1992. Both were bred by Julie Clark (Lester Kennels) and imported by Jim and Ann Gorman (Argshiel Kennels) of South Australia.

Later, in 1993 two more imports were to arrive at Faringdon Kennels, NSW - Litter brother and sister from NZ - ChLester Mini Man Faringdon (NZ.Ch.Lester Iti Woodstock ex Lester Iti Sasha) & Lester Mini Dot n Dotty.

The first Miniature imported to New Zealand was from Australia being NZ Ch.Schardale Mini Maroi Ch.Erenden Unctious Ullock imp.UK. ex Ch.Schardale Showpiece ) with NZ.Ch.Coldstream Statesman (Esse Little John at Coldstream ex Erenden Gin n it at Coldstream ) to follow soon after from the UK. More Imports were soon to follow from Australia. The most recent import from the UK is Aust Ch Admirari Aerodynamic also going to Faringdon Kennels in NSW.

August 1997 saw the passing of NSW's original import, Aust.Ch Erenden Roxana J.W, ROM (U.K) just before her 12th birthday, in April 1998, Victoria's frst import, Aust Ch Grandopera Otello of Warbonnet (UK) died at just a little over 12 years old. Both had a good innings and as for myself I could not have wished for a better ambassador than Roxana - her exuberant, extrovert personality made her a dream to show. She commanded attention from her first outing to her last, which was in the veteran class at the BTC Inc. (NSW) show in April 1996 where she pranced around the ring like a two year old, it was fitting that on her last outing she was handled by her breeder Mrs Valerie Allenden, out here on holiday at the time.

At the meeting of the ANKC (Australian National Kennel Council) held in March 1986 the interbreeding of size type to develop the Miniature Bull Terrier was approved as per the English policy (ie: All progeny of Mini / Bull Terrier matings must be registered as MINIATURES regardless of size). This only gave breeders in Australia 12 months in which to breed foundation stock. An application to extend the interbreeding was lodged to the ANKC by the Northern Districts BTC of NSW. This was approved and a further 5 years was granted - which finished on 1st January 1992. It was decided at the ANKC conference (October 1993 ) that a further 3 year period was necessary for the Breed's development. This commenced on the 1st . January 1994 and was due to end 1st January 1997. However, at the ANKC conference, in October 1996, the interbreeding was once again discussed and it was decided that another 3 years be granted, commencing January 1997 and finishing on 1st January 2000. The issue was raised again in 1999 and it was resolved once again to continue for a further 5 years, and is now scheduled to finish on 1st January 2005. In 1999 The Miniature Bull Terrier Club U.K. applied to The Kennel Club to re-open interbreeding once again, due to increasing eye problems they are experiencing in the Breed at present.This was granted but with many new conditions to be adhered to. Interbreeding with the Bull Terrier (which does not carry this problem) reduces the chances of passing on an hereditary eye condition, by diluting the gene/genes responsible.

Dog Breeders--One Starfish At a Time

Daren Gisseman 1/2008

As Americans, we sometimes have a problem with matching up our values with our actions, particularly in regard to pet ownership and euthanasia. With the overpopulation of dogs in America, we are witnessing over 20,000 healthy dogs per day euthanized. Out of sight—out of mind. Maybe we prefer it this way.

To get my mind around this number I reallly have to imagine what this would actually look like. Were we to load semi trailers full of these euthanized dog carcasses each day, and haul them to one dedicated landfill, it would take over 10 packed semi trailers per day! How tall would of a pile of 20,000 dog carcasses make? In two weeks the pile changes into a big hill, and in just two years, a veritable mountain--comprised of 16 million dogs! If each dog weighed only 40 lbs. this ends up being 320,000 tons of dogs! This shameful carnage of destroyed dogs in America could literally fill a basketball arena!

While I love a good steak (beef, mind you), as much as the next guy, I can’t help but think that the problem’s we have with our pet overpopulations are related in some way to our casual regard to livestock. Most countries categorize dogs as livestock, and even the USA is considering bills to change this designation. Some countries eat dogs, just as we eat chicken. Some countries produce thousands of pounds of dog pelts for use in clothing, (from German Shepherd Dogs--called Gaewolf Fur), etc.

But what American community wouldn’t eat less meat, and buy fewer pups, if we were all required to raise, feed, and slaughter our own chickens and cows; and how would this affect pet owners and breeders who were required to volunteer once per year to assist in the euthanization of our own neighborhood's surplus population of dogs?

As Americans, we criticize other cultures for their view of dogs as just livestock, adding dog to the dinner menu, but they at least view their dogs as livestock, and do not disrespectfully misuse them and waste them as we do in America (at least our overpopulation of pets). Of course I’m not suggesting that we should eat dogs here, only that we show more respect for them. We can show more respect through decreasing our shameful number of euthanasia’s in America. This can be done with responsible dog breeding.

The problem with dogs is that we treat them as a commodity—as livestock--when buying them, but then as the loving owners, we welcome them as a part of our family. We spoil our pets here in America as if they were our own children. Although, for some new puppy owners, the shock of discovering a puppy chewing on a couch or relieving itself on an expensive rug, is quite unacceptable. Owners find out very quickly how inconvenient the raising of a puppy can be, and then quickly surrender them into a shelter. Animal shelters are doing their best, of course, but they can be quite limited on their options when adoption fails. Instead of providing “shelter”, they become the final resting place for so many dogs and many other pets.

Obviously, it is the fault of the owners for not fulfilling their commitment to their new puppies, but what responsibility do breeders have? In some of the more rare breeds, the breeders have unified together and formed somewhat of a monopoly. This, at first, appears unscrupulous, unfair, and exploitive, but, with more research, we discover that this monopoly is quite the opposite. It provides a valuable protection for new puppies, new owners, and of course, the breeders.

With Miniature Bull Terriers, the new puppy owners are screened extensively. This is accomplished through comprehensive written applications, careful phone interviews, and even limited background checks (including personal references, particularly from a vet). The process can also include a physical home check as well, (which confirms the answers submitted on the application--such as having fenced yard, or that the potential owners do in fact live in a house!) This can be done by another member of the breed club, one who lives in that same state, who volunteers to “drop by” the home. Such seemingly ridiculous “hoop jumping” does have great merit, not only as the screening tool that it is meant to be, but as an accurate commitment scale for the new puppy buyer.

The prices are quite extreme for purebred puppies in general, and for Miniature Bull Terriers specifically. This does seem prohibitive for new buyers, but it also allows the breeders to feel confident that the new owners have sufficient resources and can actually afford to address any expensive health issues if the new “addition to the family” were ever to become sick, or require emergency vet care. The “Breeders Contract” helps with this too. Contracts list what is expected of the new owner, including a spay/neuter clause which ensures that the maturing pup is not reproducing, and hence, out of the control of the original breeder.

In this way, the breeder controls the population of the breed and should expect never to find a member of his/her breed—ever--in a shelter. Which, of course, leads to another provision of the contract; if the new family, for whatever reason, can no longer care for their dog, they are already committed, (through the signed contract), to get in touch with the breeder and return the dog, etc. The breeder can also assist the owners in finding an appropriate home. New owners are encouraged to consult with the breeders, do health testing, and then update breeders.

If a Miniature Bull Terrier does end up in a shelter, every MBT breeder will want to know whose lines it came from (micro-chipping is required on pups as well). Which breeder is responsible? The pup will be immediately adopted by a member of the national club, usually a breeder, and the pup then becomes the responsibility of the MBT community, who find the pup a great home. The community becomes somewhat self regulating. If a MBT goes blind from a genetic disease, the community is very concerned. All breeding stock are strongly encouraged by the “community” and national club to be tested, both for general health and for genetic problems, (as per national club standards). When a genetic problem occurs, the community rallies to find solutions and enlist research. Open registries for health, like the OFA, (http://www.offa.org/), while still in need of some refining, are nevertheless making communication and concern for testing of paramount importance.

The self regulating community concept is certainly not fail proof, and it has its limits, but the results at the end of the day have been very satisfying!

So, the breeder, in spite of the costs, and through his/her investments of resources in finding the best homes, care of the pups, and testing, can nearly eliminate the unwarranted euthanasia of the 22,000 dogs daily in America. This has been demonstrated in some of the more rare canine breeds—like the Miniature Bull Terrier in the previous examples. How many of these 22,000 killed each day in America are Miniature Bull Terriers? Since they range from $2,000 to $3,000 per puppy—and many times for adult too--it would be hard to imagine that there could be many, but how about mixed MBT dogs? Because of this “monopoly” by breeders, and the rarity of the breed, thankfully, not many.

Puppy buyers resent the price and the difficulty in finding a purebred dog (and rightfully so). I would ask them then, why bother with a purebred dog? Adopt from a shelter! Don’t bother with the hassle, costs, contracts, contact with the breeders, stipulations and the effort! Why not adopt? Save a life! Don’t we all want a costly designed Mercedes Benz, but we don’t have a budget for it? Can’t you get around just as well in an old used Honda? We all think we can afford the puppy, but don’t really want to hear about the costs and commitment—both monetarily and emotionally. The cute factor of a pup is very powerful, but as with exotic sports cars, both are costly and high maintenance! Instead, puppy buyers can avoid both the Breeders and the Shelters altogether through purchasing a puppy from a pet store!

Pet stores normally acquire their puppies, or “livestock” of dogs, through a "puppy mill". These "mills"are quite lucerative but also exploitive operations, similar to raising chickens or cattle, where the focus is more on production and less on quality of life and health of pups. Government rules only "slap the hands" of these big operations when they are not in line with the livestock laws and regulations. Now we come "full circle". In purchasing through a local pet store, the new puppy owner is free to own the dog “outright” with no attachments, and full breeding rights! And if things don’t work out with the pup, he/she can also give the pup away, (the metamorphosizing little pillow shredding demon), or take “it” to “The Shelter”. Sometimes this last part is hard to do, lots of tears, but...... “we have no other choice,”…right?

The self regulating ideal for breeders becomes more and more difficult as the particular breed becomes more popular, and more available. When the Target stores began their campaign with Bull Terriers, (“Spot”, the Target Dog), the demand for more pups soared! This made great puppy homes easier to find for the breeders, and the waiting lists lined up, sometimes two years, for many breeders. Once a pup is “adopted” by a new pre-screened family, the likelihood of the dog getting into the hands of a puppy mill—to be bred and exploited by them--is slim. Particularly with the spay/neuter contract in place.

If this dog did end up being bred, against the wishes of the original breeder, (as some new owners are want to do), then these “un-doctrinated” new breeders become an out-and-out “loose cannon” for the breeding community! They are huge liabilities for the future welfare of the breed, because of the possibility of a pup getting into the possession of a puppy mill, or “backyard breeder”, etc. and the breeding community looks to the original breeder who sold the puppy to correct the problem and enforce the contract, and even repossess the dog!

We should discuss the “backyard breeder” as well. The only difference between a backyard breeder and a reputable breeder is 5 simple commitments:

1) As judgements about dogs do vary considerably and can be somewhat subjective, a reputable breeder will enlist the judgment of the dog community. Specifically, they will enlist trained and experienced AKC judges to say whether or not a dog is a good representative of the breed standard--or whether it really ought to be bred (as per confirmation to the AKC Breed Standard). This confirmation showing can cost from $1,500 to $20,000 per dog, (in showing at AKC confirmation shows to his/her Championship Title)! This is another way to prove that the breeders are not "strip mining" the breed. It not only confirms good structure, but somewhat of overall health and temperment, at least to a limited degree.

2) Health testing and compliance to the National Club regulations for breeding. As well as puppy testing, vaccinations, clean bill of health fromt he vet, and even a limited guarantee from the breeders.

3) Suffering through the “know your puppy buyer” process, including having completed puppy applications, interviews, investigations, etc. to find the best puppy buyers—and also rejecting many of the less adequate applicants.

4) Requiring a puppy contract which includes a spay/neuter clause for non showing dogs, parameters for breeding for dogs which will show, and references or outlines and providing for the dogs return if new owners can no longer keep him. Also, identification chips implanted, or ID tatoo, etc.

5) Joining a local or national breed club which will help self-regulate the mores and values for breeding dogs; through emails, shows, meetings, magazines, and other personal interactions.

What traits can buyers expect from a "well bred" dog? A fellow Boxer enthusiast in Utah, Dan Larsen, summed it up with the "Three Pillars":

A) Structure, B) Temperament, and C) Genetic Health.

In spite of the best preparations, testings, investing, and education by the breeders, inevitably, one or more of these pillars will fall at some time. If good kennels were to give up when this happens, then our unique breeds would become extinct. Successful and committed kennels, therefore, work around these problems. Ultimately, like the dogs themselves, the kennel has inherited the problems. Many times, the kennel can also change them for the better--through selective breedings. Puppy mills, pet stores, and "back yard breeders" don't usually account for any of these three pillars.

For a breeder, structure is, of course, proved in confirmation competition. Are kennels producing any champions? While this seems to be the common measure of a successful kennel, the other two pillars, temperament and genetic health are obviously so much more important, especially in the new-puppy-owner's perspective.

Health and temperament are indeed critical. Most breed clubs require certain genetic health testing to be done before breeding pairs can be used. Additionally, any dogs/bitches being bred ought to be at least pointed from AKC confirmation judges—or foreign equivalents. This shows that “structure” concerns are being addressed when considering breeding pairs. Good structure can be quite subjective. At least the “AKC points” give more credibility. Now the breeder can say that an AKC judge evaluated the dog and considered the dog acceptable, as per structure and AKC breed standard. Points on a dog become more of an objective measure to be able to evaluate a breeder, along with his/her use of health testing, "home screening" for new puppy buyers, puppy guarantee, etc. Showing and "pointing" a dog proves, to a small extent, that the kennel is not simply "strip mining". Confirmation Shows, in addition to validating correct structure, also prove some level of correct temperament. The judge must place his/her hands on the dog, check the bite, and the dog must also be around other dogs.

We have an additional temperament criteria--the Canine Good Citizen designation is now available. The AKC ought to require breeding pairs to also have their CGC title, demonstrating, to a limited degree, the temperaments of the dogs being bred. This new criteria helps potential puppy buyers by placing an objective degree to a subjective measure, for temperament.

Reputable breeders also have a monetary responsibility for their dogs. With Miniature Bull Terriers, budget is always a consideration. In Utah, the yearly eye test is $35; kidneys $80, heart $300. This breed often requires Artificial Insemination which can be $1,000. They also usually require C-section births, at $800. As they are so rare, shipping semen is not uncommon, which can cost $1,000 with the stud fee included. This is in addition to the regular costs of food, blankets, toys, shots, etc. Also, MBT puppies require direct supervision when with their mother for the first month, making a difficult 4 weeks of sleepless nights and fulltime days.

Many breeders have a partnership with a spouse who works from home, or takes a month leave of absence to initially rear the pups. The pups, as cute as they are, have new lives which consist mostly of eating and pooping for the first 10 weeks. It can be a trying time when the mother stops “cleaning up” after them and this work is left to that partner at home. As referred to previously, a good deal of emotion, time and effort are invested in finding the best puppy owners too. What are those costs in time, experience and effort?

The breeders are, ultimately responsible for each pup which they produce. They are responsible for the lifetime of that pup. This also illustrates the power of the spay/neuter contract. Many breeders offer a rebate, in conjunction with the signed contract, for proof of the spay or neuter. Breeders require frequent contact with the new family as well, pictures, emails, etc. to ensure the new pup is being treated properly.

Most Miniature Bull Terrier breeders also require the new owners to take an 8 week puppy class at 4 to 6 months old ($100 at Petsmart). This sets a base for good behavior for the pup’s entire lifetime. Most breeders, in their search for great homes for puppies, also look for the new owners who already have experience with the breed, or other terrier breeds. MBT’s tend to be sometimes feisty and high spirited. Some MBT breeders will not adopt a puppy to a household who has young children, with the fear that the children may tease the puppy, or inadvertently get scratched or bitten, and then ultimately the euthanization of the dog could be the result. Many breeders also will not adopt puppies to homes where there are swimming pools, as some Miniature Bull Terriers don’t naturally swim so well and tend to sink like a rock.

In the end, the breeders of any particular breed can in fact control the shameful amount of euthanasia of dogs in America. With Miniature Bull Terriers, at just 1,200 new pups registered each year, this control is already happening. With Boxers, where nearly 50,000 puppies are registered each year, many cases of euthanasia do occur, particularly with mixed Boxer-breeds. The Boxer breeding community is so large, that it becomes difficult to control and self regulate.

Old habits and traditions die hard. Still, reduction of unwarrented euthanasias can happen with one dog breeder at a time. Through effort, education, encouragement, and “selling” the benefits to breeders, it can happen. Setting standards for the way pups are adopted, tracked, contracted, and chipped—including the use of applications for new owners, investigations, interviews, etc. of all new puppy buyers, such will eliminate much of the current careless euthanasia of our dogs in America.

The old man continues to pick up each dieing starfish from the sand and throw each one back into the ocean…one by one…

“Why do you do it?” another asks, “It won’t make a difference...there are too many…”

The old man hesitates, and then replies, “It made a difference to that one, didn’t it…?”

As a responsible dog breeder, I say the same: “It made a difference to that pup…”

Primary Lens Luxation: Progress Update 10/2007

....(from the Lancashire Heeler website: The latest update on the PLL research study for finding a genetic marker).

The Primary Lens Luxation research project is currently a collaboration between Cathryn Mellersh (AHT), David Sargan (University of Cambridge) and David Gould (Davies Veterinary Specialists).

Progress Update
During 2006 we identified which one of the dog's 38 chromosomes harbours the PLL mutation and by July 2007 we had reduced the search to approximately 600,000 of the 3,000,000,000 letters or nucleotides of DNA that make up the dog genome.

Analysis of DNA samples from different breeds indicated the same region of the same chromosome was associated with PLL in several breeds, including the Miniature Bull Terrier, the Tibetan Terrier, the Lancashire Heeler and the Jack Russell Terrier.

Over the last three months we have continued to reduce the size of the region in which we know the PLL mutation is located –the so- called `PLL critical region'. We have done this by analysing additional closely spaced genetics markers from within the PLL critical region in large number of dogs affected with PLL. We know PLL is a recessive condition, so all dogs affected with PLL will carry two copies of the PLL mutation (i.e. be homozygous for the mutation). Likewise, we expect affected dogs to also carry two identical copies of, or be homozygous for, genetic markers located very close to the mutation.

If an affected dogs is heterozygous for (i.e. carries different copies of) a given genetic marker then we know that marker must be located some way from the mutation and therefore be outside the PLL critical region.

Focusing on approximately 150 dogs affected with PLL we have been able to narrow the PLL region to approximately 300,000 nucleotides. We are continuing to narrow the PLL region. We have identified a gene within the region that is a very good candidate for PLL that we would now like to sequence (i.e. read letter by letter). Unfortunately the sequence and structure of the DNA in this region makes it techniquely challenging to sequence so we are currently investigating different methods of analysing the DNA surrounding this gene.Once we have found a way in which the DNA can be successfully analysed we will sequence the candidate gene to see if it harbours the PLL mutation.

Since the last report we have had a dedicated member of staff working on this project, and that continues to be the situation. In addition, the principal investigators meet on a regular basis, to monitor progress and discuss results. Identifying the mutation responsible for this condition continues to be a major focus for all concerned with this project.

Sample Collection

The research has progressed sufficiently well that we are now only targeting samples from dogs, of any breed, that are affected with PLL. Samples from additional affected dogs will continue to play a valuable role in the research right up until the point at which we find the mutation and can develop a DNA test. We would also like to thank everybody who has made a financial donation to support our research studies. As a charity the AHT (Animal Health Trust--UK) relies heavily on donations, whilst all research performed at the University of Cambridge is also funded solely through external donations and competitive grants, and not through support from the higher education funding system. All donations to support our research are truly appreciated by both organisations.

April 14th, 2008 Primary Lens Luxation Study Update

The Primary Lens Luxation research project is currently collaboration between Cathryn Mellersh (AHT), David Sargan (University of Cambridge) and David Gould (Davies Veterinary Specialists).

Progress Update (April 14th, 2008)

As we have reported previously, considerable progress has been made recently to identify the region of the genome that contains the mutation responsible for PLL. We have identified a region, on chromosome 3, that is shared between all dogs that are affected with PLL. Slowly but surely we have been narrowing the region and now have reduced it to around 300,000 nucleotides or letters of DNA, which is less than a tenth of 1% of the canine genome. This is called the ‘PLL critical region’

We have identified a gene within the critical region that is a very good candidate for PLL that we would now like to sequence (i.e. read letter by letter). Unfortunately the sequence and structure of the DNA in this region makes it techniquely challenging to sequence and this has meant that our progress with this gene has been slower than it would be for other, more normal, regions of the genome. Because of our sequencing difficulties we have recently sent cloned Doberman DNA from the critical region to be sequenced by a company offering a new sequencing technology, in the hope this would shed light on the sequence of this gene in a normal (PLL unaffected) dog. We received the sequencing data a week ago and are currently in the process of analysing it. This is not a trivial task as we received 2,375,962 ‘reads’ of DNA, each of which is 33 nucleotides (or letters) of DNA long. We have to align all these reads to obtain a consensus DNA sequence that will tell us the sequence of nucleotides in the normal gene. Hopefully, once we have the sequence of the normal gene we will be able to investigate the DNA from PLL affected dogs to see if mutations in this gene account for PLL.

We have also started to explore the possibility of developing a ‘linkage-based’ DNA test that would use the DNA within the PLL critical region to determine whether dogs are affected, carrier or clear of PLL. Because linkage-based tests do not assay for the presence or absence of the causal mutation, but rather rely on nearby ‘linked’ DNA, they are not 100% accurate, but if carefully designed they can achieve levels of accuracy in excess of 95% and would represent a useful tool with which breeders can start to reduce the incidence of this condition until the mutation itself is identified.

A PhD student, Elena Hernández Merino, who is supervised by David Sargan at Cambridge University is currently examining markers from the PLL critical region in affected and known carrier dogs, to identify any that could form the basis of a linkage-based DNA test. This work is ongoing but must be given close attention; if a linkage-based DNA test is to be made available it is critically important that our selection of markers is prudent to minimise incorrect diagnoses.

Having a dedicated member of staff working on this project, means the project is moving forward as quickly as it can and the principal investigators meet on a regular basis, to monitor progress and discuss results. Identifying the mutation responsible for this condition continues to be a major focus for all concerned with this project.

Sample Collection

The research has progressed sufficiently well that we are now only targeting samples from dogs, of any breed, that are affected with PLL. Samples from additional affected dogs will continue to play a valuable role in the research right up until the point at which we find the mutation and can develop a DNA test.

We would also like to thank everybody who has made a financial donation to support our research studies. As a charity the AHT relies heavily on donations, whilst all research performed at the University of Cambridge is also funded solely through external donations and competitive grants, and not through support from the higher education funding system. All donations to support our research are truly appreciated by both organisations.

Canine Genetics Progress Report

Breed: Lancashire Heelers and Miniature Bull Terriers

Condition: Primary Lens Luxation (PLL)

Date: 14.04.2008

Recent / Current Funding:

Funding Body: Kennel Club Health Foundation Fund

Amount: £83,281 (including £8000 from Miniature Bull Terrier Breed Club) this grant was to study four inherited conditions, one of which was PLL

Start Date: March ’03, 24 months

Funding Body: Kennel Club Health Foundation Fund

Amount: £49,823 (including £2000 from Lancashire Heeler Breed Club) Start Date: March ’05, 24 months

Funding Body: Canine Health Foundation (American Kennel Club)

Amount: $9586

Start Date: January ’05, 12 months.

4. Funding Body: Canine Health Foundation (American Kennel Club)

Amount: $12927

Start Date: February ’07, 12 months

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