Outcrossing: Not Just One & Done

Outcrossing: Not Just One & Done

July 7, 2026 · 1h 19m · Season 1 · Episode 1

About this episode

This episode discusses the complexities and strategies of outcrossing in dog breeding with expert insights from master breeders.

Outcrossing is one of the most talked-about and misunderstood topics in dog breeding. In this episode of the Better Breeder Roundtable, Kathy Rust is joined by renowned master breeder Bill Shelton (Coventry Pembroke Welsh Corgis) and Lisa Braun (Mischief Papillons & Miniature American Shepherds) for a practical discussion on when, why, and how breeders should use outcrossing to improve their programs. Bill explains why outcrossing is not a shortcut or a fix for problems, but a long-term strategy for enrichment, to capture specific virtues while preserving type, health, and consistency. In this conversation, you'll learn: Why strong breeding programs are built through linebreeding first The biggest mistake breeders make after an outcross How to identify the traits worth introducing into your line Why studying families of dogs matters more than studying individual winners How fertility, litter size, temperament, and health influence breeding decisions Whether you're new to breeding or refining an established program, this episode is packed with practical insights and decades of breeding experience. Watch now and learn how successful breeders use outcrossing to strengthen their…

People in this episode

Host: Kathy Rust

Guests: Bill Shelton, Lisa Braun

Topics covered

Keywords

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Coventry Pembroke Welsh Corgis, Mischief Papillons & Miniature American Shepherds

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