Looking after a litter of puppies is a big responsibility.
Being a dog breeder is a responsibility that should be taken very seriously and training dogs is part and parcel of that responsibility. Irresponsible breeding is one of the biggest contributing factors to poor canine health in the United States, so it is very important to understand the implications of taking on this responsibility. You should aim to breed healthy, happy and functional dogs that improve the breed in general. It is essential not to over breed any bitches.
Instructions
Breeding
1. Set up suitable home premises from which to conduct your breeding operations. You should have sufficient room for at least two adult dogs and a litter of puppies, with enough outdoor space for the adults and indoor space for the litter. It is your responsibility to ensure adult dogs are well trained. If you are unsure, consult a professional dog trainer.
2. Find a dog that is primarily suitable as a pet. This dog will be in your home for its entire life and you are responsible for training, feeding and caring for it. This will be a breed that you are experienced and familiar with. Most breeders keep a female dog that has had a limited amount of litters in her life time. Some breeders keep a mating pair and others keep a stud that visits other dogs for breeding.
3. Decide whether you wish to breed purebred or mixed breed dogs. You should be an expert in the breed you choose. Ensure that both the sire and the dam have all of the relevant health tests prior to breeding to ensure that they do not pass on any hereditary diseases or health problems. Tests include hip and shoulder scoring and eye testing. (See References 2)
4. Once the bitch is in her second menstrual season, she is ready to mate. Her first season will normally happen at around six months old. Don't mate her during her first season, only breed her between the ages of two and six years. Reputable breeders typically limit a bitch to two litters in her lifetime and leave at least a year between litters.
5. Introduce the pair if they are not already familiar with each other. A sire and a bitch in season will normally need little encouragement to mate. Do the first introduction with both dogs on leash to avoid any tension. Once they are happy, leave them to mate.
6. Observe the bitch during her gestation period. Gestation typically last 65 days. Ensure she is well fed, comfortable and in good health. Schedule regular veterinary check ups.
7. Prepare a clean, quiet and comfortable area for the bitch to deliver her puppies. Before she goes in to labor, her behavior may change. Nesting instincts will take over and she will become unsettled. Ensure that you are on hand to help, but do not distract her. Delivery of a litter can take up to six hours. Once delivery is finished, leave the bitch with her puppies. Provide water for the bitch.
8. Provide enough space for the bitch and her pups. It is now your job to find suitable homes for these puppies once they are at least eight weeks old. Always do a home check of anyone coming to adopt or buy a puppy.
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