Our
experience in breeding dogs began with German
Shepherds 38 years ago and overlapping into Irish
Wolfhounds. Both of these breeds had great rears,
excellent stifle angulation, thick upper thighs,
good drive, single tracking, no hockeyness - great
moving breeds.
There were many bloodlines and dogs considered
for this ambitious breeding program. Looking at
Mastiffs in the 1960's, we observed a tremendous
lack of "rear" in the majority of the dogs; e.g.,
straight stifles, (very thin upper thighs with
little muscle; no drive or reach, hockeyness and
"narrow" rears.) Movement was also a problem for the
Mastiff. Developing the "TAMARACK rear" was part of
the first 7-year breeding goals.
One needs to study his Breed Standard to learn
proper structure and confirmation of his breed, as
well as any faults and/or disqualifications. The Old
English Mastiff Standard, unfortunately, contains no
disqualifications which is the reason we see such a
tremendous variation of type in our breed. But, it
is possible to breed Mastiffs that possess the
attributes set forth in the Standard. The word
"interpretation" is key to the future of our
Mastiffs.
Head type was critical as well, due to the
emphasis stated in the Scale of Points in the
Mastiff Standard. Luckily, many Mastiffs possessed
this head type.
Toplines were a real problem and required
restructuring. Although the Mastiff should possess a
"level" topline, we saw "dippy" toplines, "roach"
toplines and "high" rears. So proper toplines were
included for areas in need of attention and
correction.
Temperament was and always will be an important
trait of the Mastiff. And I can not stress enough
the importance of this quality in any breed of dog,
but especially in a giant breed.
Having had experience with one giant breed prior
to the Mastiff, we learned of the very short life
span peculiar to the giants. One of the greatest
accomplishments for which Tamarack has received
recognition is the ability to have doubled the life
span of the breed. It is typical for Tamarack bred
dogs to live between 8-14 years. The life span of
the breed has continuously decreased over the years
in great part to indiscriminate breeding, back yard
breeding and puppy milling.
The wonderful traits that the breed has become
known to possess, as well as the standard of the
Mastiff must be maintained and protected to preserve
this exceptional breed of dog. This critical task is
entrusted to the breeders of the future. May they be
guided with wisdom and devotion to the breed.
