Guide to Responsible Dog Breeding

 

Who doesn’t love puppies? Fun, cuddly, cute but they are also a large commitment. In today’s day and age with the current animal shelter crisis, considering breeding your dog comes with many responsibilities to ensure you are doing it properly for the betterment of the breed you represent. Considering health tests, proven genetics, and desirability come into play when making this decision. 

Depending on your breed, there is a list of health requirements they should meet before being considered. The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals, or OFA, has a list of the necessary tests to be performed listed by breed. Their website provides a wealth of knowledge on these tests and their importance. Certain breed clubs will also have recommendations on testing to be performed as well. On top of testing, considering your dog’s day to day health is also of upmost importance… do they have a chronic condition such as allergies or intestinal issues? How is their behavioral health? Only healthy dogs should be reproduced.

Another important factor is why your dog’s genetics should be passed on. Researching their lineage back many generations and comparing to potential matches can help to ensure only good genetics are being passed on as well as to limit inbreeding. Looking back generations of health testing can also help ensure you are producing healthy dogs and aim to breed out any health issues prevalent in the breed. Competing with your dog in dog sports is another great way to prove your dog’s genetics. There is a wide range of ways to compete from basic obedience tests for pets to hunt tests for specialty bred dogs.

Once you have met the requirements of proven, healthy genetics it is also important to consider the demand of the puppies you plan to produce. I typically recommend having at least 6 potential families lined up before the breeding even takes place. If you wait until puppies are born you run the risk of rushing to find homes that may not be suitable owners as well as having to keep the puppies if there is not enough interest. A proper application process and contract are a good way to screen potential owners and ensure they do not end up in shelters.

Overall, bringing new life into the world comes with a lot of responsibilities. It is always good to financially plan for the worst and hope for the best. Complications can arise that can be fatal for both mom and puppies if left untreated. Contact your veterinarian and find a good reputable mentor if you are interested in breeding your dogs to ensure you have all the information needed to breed responsibly.

Dr. Megan Harwood – Colony Animal Clinic