How To Be A Responsible Breeder

Breeders enter the world of breeding for a number of different reasons. Some may be looking to produce high quality puppies of a particular breed, some may be looking to generate a profit from each breeding while others may just be looking to have some fun raising a litter of puppies. Regardless of the reason why a breeder decides to produce a litter it is incredibly important to be a responsible breeder. This article will outline how breeders can ensure they are being responsible.

When it comes to being a responsible breeder, knowledge is power. The best thing any breeder can do to be a responsible breeder is learn everything they possibly can about their own breed as well as the process of breeding. This type of knowledge can be gained through reading books, reading websites and speaking to more experienced breeders. Additional knowledge is also gained through experience. By taking the time to learn as much as possible about the breed and about the process of breeding, the breeder will be able to make the best decisions possible. From selecting stud dogs and bitches to dealing with complications during delivery a well educated breeder is also a responsible breeder.

Taking health concerns seriously is another part of responsible breeding. Most breeds have one or more health concerns which are common in the breed. These health concerns may include joint issues such as dysplasia, eye issues such as progressive retinal atrophy or a number of other issues. A knowledgeable breeder will be aware of these issues and will only breed bitches and stud dogs that are certified to be free of these defects or disorders. Additionally, a responsible breeder will neuter or spay dogs or bitches that have these unfavorable characteristics. Doing this will help to ensure these unfavorable genes are not passed on to future litters of puppies.

Carefully temperament testing all dogs and bitches used in a breeding program is another part of responsible breeding. This is important because unfavorable temperament traits such as aggression should not knowingly be passed onto future generations of puppies. Similarly to the issue of unfavorable genetic traits, dogs or bitches with unfavorable social traits should also be neutered or spayed to prevent the pervasion of these traits.

Responsible breeders also make the well being of the dogs and bitches in their breeding program a top priority. This is accomplished by providing proper care and nutrition for the animals. It also includes waiting until the dogs and bitches are fully matured physically, mentally and socially. In most dogs this will not occur until around two years of age. Responsible breeders should also avoid breeding bitches too often and should structure breeding programs to provide adequate recovery periods for each bitch in the program.

Finally, responsible breeders take great care in placing puppies in suitable homes. This will involve carefully screening potential buyers to ensure they can provide an appropriate home along with adequate mental and physical stimulation for the puppies. The contract for the sale of the puppy should clearly define the expectations of the new owner and should also provide provisions for the breeder to regain ownership of the puppy if the new owner is no longer able to provide a suitable home. This is important because a responsible breeder should always be willing to take back a puppy for any reason as opposed to allowing the puppy to be surrendered to a shelter or rescue group.