Born to Win, Breed to Succeed (Kennel Club Pro) Hardcover – August 11, 2009

It was about 6 years ago that I bought Patricia Craige's Born to Win but it was only a couple months ago that I actually read it. I guess I just didn't have the motivation back then, being dog-less for most of those years. Hot dang was I missing out!Everything you need to know, and everything you didn't know you needed to learn, is in this book. Although it's intended for breeders, current or wannabe, anyone who shows dogs can gain from the work of Patricia Trotter (formerly Craige). Today Mrs Trotter is an esteemed judge but for decades she bred some of the winningest and most influential Elkhounds in AKC history. A former history teacher, she has a very readable style of writing that is blessedly easy to learn from. In addition she has over a half century of experience breeding and showing dogs, plus a knack for thinking creatively and being open-minded. Is there a better instructor?The whole purpose of this book is to guide the reader into thinking like and becoming a "master breeder": one whose purpose is to raise the classic dog and positively influence current and future generations. If you just want a litter of cute puppies and have no interest in becoming an "artistic genetic engineer" then this book is too much for you. But if, like me, you want to someday be remembered as an icon of the fancy then you couldn't find a better starting point than Born to Win. Along with my own mentors this book has helped me develop a plan of approach for my breed (Border Terriers).A few of my favorite sections include...- Learning plan for the fledgling breeder- How to develop selection criteria- Breeding methods (line, out, and "close"), patterned pedigrees, importance of tail male and female lines- Historical giants in producing champions, both dogs and bitches- Selecting a "true foundation bitch"- Selecting a truly great sire- Anecdotes from classic shows like Morris & Essex, Westminster, and others; stories of the journey to the top- Conditioning your dog- Federico Tesio, breeder of classic Thoroughbreds like Nearco and Ribot, inspiration to small-scale breeders everywhereThere just aren't enough superlatives to describe this book, but there's one that sums them up: it's a gem. Meaning go buy it now!

If it were possible to be any more starstruck by Pat Trotter.... well, I am now! This book is the closest any dog-show-newbie will get to having one of the greats mentor them personally. There are certainly findings and suggestions in here that would not fly with me, or with my breed, but it's wonderful food for thought. I lend this book to all my dog friends!

This is an excellent book which should be read by anyone interested in breeding dogs. Highly informative, very detailed and specific. Describes what a good brood bitch and sire are and how to pick them. Talks about kennelling, picking puppies and showing. Wish I had known about it a few years ago when I first started out. The author is very knowledgeable about many breeds and I also found her stories about her own dogs great.

I totally respect Mrs Trotter and have had the pleasure to show to her several times. When I discovered she had written a book I just HAD to add it to my library. She is a legend and I am devouring the information bit by bit!

I bought this book because it was an incredible bargain. I've met Pat Trotter occasionally at dog shows and was curious to see what advice she had to offer. She gives some very practical and well thought out advice to breeders. I have made changes to my breeding program based on the ideas in this book with great results. My advice is buy the book, even if you have to pay full price.

I was thoroughly impressed with the honesty of this author, her candid thoughts and scope of knowledge. Anyone considering showing or involved with breeding purebred dogs should have this as a reference if not as their guide. Well illustrated, well written; kudos for ;this fine book.

Born to Win, Breed to Succeed should be in the library of any serious dog breeder. This is a reflection of the author's experience in the show ring, her learning process as a breeder and advice for today's dog breeders, most unable to have a large kennel but trying to do the best possible within their breed. Photos are lovely and references to various people in the dog world are very interesting.

Encyclopedia of famous dogs and famous people. The book’s description even boasts “over 400 pages” of pictures and details about show dogs and their breeders. Basically a book of who’s who in the dog show world, great for historical enthusiasts, with tips on breeding for genetics sandwiched between long show dog names and anecdotes. I purchased this book because of all the rave four and five star reviews, but it really wasn’t what I was looking for. Consider instead Pat Hastings’ Tricks of the Trade, Structure In Action or Puppy Puzzle dvd, depending on your focus. Or Helen King’s What’s Your Angle or Picking Your Performance Puppy. I will be getting those instead.

Very happy with the product and delivery.

Excellent box