Like many things in the world of animal welfare, the decision to breed dogs should not be taken lightly. There are numerous key considerations potential breeders need evaluate to ensure that they are breeding responsibly and ethically. Let's dive into what every potential breeder needs to consider.
10 Top Considerations for Potential Breeders
- Breed Standard Contribution: Will your dog contribute to excellent health, temperament, working ability, or conformity to the breed standard?
- Spaying and Neutering Awareness: Do you understand that spaying and neutering can prevent some health problems associated with keeping your dog intact?
- Pedigree Assessment: Are you aware of any health and temperament issues in your dog's pedigree, considering both depth and breadth?
- Search for Ideal Mate: Are you willing to search extensively for the best mate for your dog, even if it requires traveling out of state?
- Screened Buyers and Deposits: Do you have carefully screened buyers with deposits for potential puppies?
- Emergency Care Fund: Do you have funds set aside for emergency care if the dam or puppies require it?
- 24/7 Availability: Can you or another responsible adult be present 24 hours a day during the first 3 weeks in case hand feeding is needed?
- Education on Canine Reproduction: Have you thoroughly researched canine pregnancy, whelping, and puppy rearing? (Reference: "Canine Reproduction: A Breeder's Guide 3rd Edition" by Phyllis Holst)
- Socialization Commitment: Are you willing to keep and properly socialize all the puppies until suitable homes are found?
- Lifetime Responsibility: Are you committed to taking back any unwanted puppies at any point in their lives and serving as a lifetime resource for the buyers?
Pre-Breeding Procedures
In additional to the key considerations, there are also a number of health procedures that must be done prior to breeding to ensure the health of both the mother and any potential puppies.
- Annual CERF Eye Certification: Ensure annual eye certification through CERF.
- Optimal Breeding Age: Wait until your dog is 2 years old before breeding, then obtain OFA hip and elbow certification.
- Breed-Specific Health Clearances: Have all breed-specific health clearances performed, consulting with your veterinarian and national breed club (may include heart, thyroid, genetic testing, among others).
- Brucella Canis Test: Perform the Brucella canis test one month in advance.
- Complete Physical Examination: Conduct a complete physical examination, including a digital vaginal exam to check for vaginal band/stricture, prior to breeding.
By carefully considering these factors and following pre-breeding procedures, you contribute to responsible and ethical dog breeding, prioritizing the well-being of both the parent dogs and their potential offspring.
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