Don't feel bad Mark your not the only one I'm with you on that one.I would also like to learn more on this <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

If you have the time, taking a genetics course is a great way to get started. I believe that one school even offers an online canine genetics course but I can't remember right now. I took a regular genetics course and it was very interesting, although I do feel like I should probably take a few more advanced courses to get a better idea of everything before playing God.

If you are looking for info on abbreviations (KKL, "a", and the like) let me know and I can find a page with most GSD type appreviations (lost the link).

Joining a local SchH club is a great idea as well. You don't even have to have a dog to bring. Everyone can use an extra pooper scooper around <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" /> . If there's not a club in your area, read all of the books you can and then start fostering dogs for the pound. Train them, and you will realize what I dog needs to be easily trainable, and why focusing on working characteristics is important. I am hoping to do this as soon as I have the time and an apartment where I can have a dog.