“ABCs of Breeding” by Claudia Orlandi. The accompanying text to the popular seminar by Orlandi, who breeds Basset hounds under the Topsfield banner. This book also stands alone and includes a home-study genetics program and test. Those that successfully complete it receive a certificate from the American Kennel Club. Copies are available directly from Claudia Orlandi at domorlan@gmavt.net.

These and many other useful dog books are available through www.dogwise.com:

“Breeding Better Dogs” by Carmelo Battaglia. Introduces the idea of using a “color chart” of stick-dog figures to map the strengths and weakness in the pedigrees of proposed sire and dam.

“Canine Reproduction – The Breeder’s Guide” by Phyllis Holst (Alpine, 2000). In addition to genetics, covers breeding behavior, pregnancy, whelping, rearing a litter, and reproductive and whelping problems. Indispensible as an overall breeder’s reference.

“Control of Canine Genetic Disease” by George Padgett (Howell Book House, 1998). If you can own only one book on canine genetics, this should be it. Explains how to understand the mechanics of inheritance, how to deal with percentages and predictability of outcome, and how to breed away from health problems.

“Future Dog: Breeding for Genetic Soundness” by Patricia Wilkie. A reference for breeders wishing to understand the use of DNA markers in predicting inheritance of traits and characteristics, including diagnosis of inherited diseases.

“Genetics: An Introduction for Dog Breeders” by Jackie Isabell (Alpine Publishing).

“Genetics and the Social Behavior of the Dog” by John Paul Scott and John L. Fuller. As its title suggests, the emphasis is on the heredity aspects of temperament.

“Genetic Connection: Guide to Health Problems in Purebred Dogs” by Lowell Ackerman (AAHA, 1999)

“Genetics of the Dog” by Malcolm B. Willis. Out of print. Occasionally available through www.alibris.com or www.abebooks.com. Covers basic genetic principles, more complex aspects of genetics, the genetics of reproduction, coat color, skeletal traits, hip dysplasia, eyes, circulatory system, central nervous system, behavior, breeding systems and selection.

“The Joy of Breeding Your Own Show Dog” by Ann Seranne (Howell/Wiley, 2004). Back in print in a revised edition. Covers everything from developing a viable breeding program based on pedigrees and genetics to whelping, raising, and socializing puppies.

“Practical Genetics for Dog Breeders” by Malcolm B. Willis (Howell Book House, 1992). One of the few books written on dog breeding for the hobby breeder. A comprehensive, readable guide that explains breeding principles and practices.