I bought 2 identical 4-qt Dutch ovens to keep at a vacation house.  I have been using the same two for about 5 years, solely for bread making, using them once a week.  They are the perfect size and high-quality workmanship.  Staub does not recommend heating them empty, as most people do for breadmaking.  I have always done that, and they have help up perfectly.  I wouldn't go from very cold to hot and only from room temperature to cold water.  Love these!!