Interview with Working Group Breeder John Seibel | Double Trouble
Where do I live? How many years in dogs? How many years as a breeder?
I live in Brooksville, Florida. I’ve been in dogs for 43 years, breeding on and off for 42 years.
What is my kennel name? How many dogs do I currently keep?
There are currently 11 Neapolitan Mastiffs under Double Trouble kennel name.
Which show dogs from the past have been my noteworthy winners?
Noteworthy winners include CH Just Call Me Wally, CH Aurora Bricoile Grandi, GCH Maximus Del Vezuvia, and CH Ursula del Vezuvia.
Which have been my most influential sires and dams?
Max x Jill del Vezuvia have been the most influential.
Can I talk a bit about my facilities? Where are your puppies whelped? How are they raised?
There are 5 x 20 ft. covered runs and an air-conditioned shed for all dogs. All pups are whelped in our house in a 12 x 20 ft. puppy room.
What is my “process” for selecting show puppies? At what age do I make my decisions?
I look for structure, movement, and personality.
How do I prepare my pups for the show ring? Does my breed require any special preparation?
We start stacking early, training for the bite exam, etc.
Is mine a cropped and/or docked breed? Can I share my thoughts on cropping and docking?
Many Neos are cropped and docked. I prefer docking, but this is changing. Slowly, judges will consider un-docked dogs.
In my opinion, is my breed in good condition overall?
The breed is getting better in movement, but judges need to watch for stops, head shapes, bites, and tail carriage.
Is my breed well-suited to be a family dog? Who are the best candidates to own my breed?
They bond to the family, but must be socialized.
Do I feel that your breed is supported by a sufficient number of preservation breeders?
There are a number of breeders who claim preservation, but are using the term to sell pups. Most don’t even know the standard.
For a bit of fun, what’s the most amusing thing I’ve ever experienced with a Working Dog?
I was chosen Group One, but wasn’t looking up at the judge. I was embarrassed to get pointed out.
Double Trouble | John Seibel
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