Every year when the National Dog Show comes around, North Americans gather around their TVs to view the precious faces of the top American dogs. As they perfectly prance across the screen with their breeder, it begs the question, “how do I join in this seemingly perfect, cuddly career?”
Breeding puppies is a lot more work than it seems. As a breeder, you don’t just sit back and watch a mother dog take care of her puppies; you have to be hands-on as well. Breeding, raising, selling, and training dogs takes time, energy, and patience, so here are some things you need to know when considering being a dog breeder.
Research is key
In every area of dog breeding, you must conduct research. First, figure out if you want to breed purebreds or mixes, and do some research into common genetic problems in specific breeds. Then, if you have a female dog, learn what a dog’s female cycle looks like to know the right time to breed.
Look into the dog you are breeding with, as well as the owners. Are they reputable breeders? How often should you meet for mating? After mating, do some research on signs of pregnancy in dogs and schedule an appointment with the veterinarian. How can you support your dog during pregnancy and birth, and what can be expected of them?
Breeders should draft contracts
Some breeders of male dogs will draft a breeding contract, so make sure you look through it thoroughly. Sometimes, the other party will want their pick of one of the puppies to continue breeding down the road. If that is ok with you, sign away. If not, a discussion will need to be had.
Dog breeding and care isn’t free
Dog breeding takes supplies, which can cost a lot of money. The income from sold home-bred puppies will make up for that spent money, but you must provide for the dog ahead of selling the puppies. Along with your research, make a list of everything you must purchase before deciding whether you should or should not breed your pet.
You must be ok with watching and sometimes participating in the birth
Sometimes, your female will need some help in the birthing process, but typically, they can handle it themselves. A responsible breeder will be by the mother’s side to provide support and any help she may need during the birth.
Help can include and is not limited to cutting and tying chords, keeping newborns warm, cleaning, and feeding. This need for human care often extends beyond the date of birth.
Be patient with finding forever homes
Many people looking to buy a homegrown puppy and also looking for puppies who are already trained in various ways. So, while you have the puppies under your care, work on potty training, tricks, and crate training if you have the resources. This will make your adorable dogs even more appealing to prospective buyers.
While it is a ton of work, dog breeding is also a precious gift. To be able to watch tiny puppies grow up and find their forever homes is an incredible reward. If you are thinking about breeding but don’t have a clue on how to get started or to get your puppies to the right home, Homemade Puppies is a responsible company that specializes in creating healthy puppies and making sure they head off to families who will love them forever. In addition, Homemade Puppies wants to change the puppy raising game, giving the public an honest look into why, how, and what they are doing at all times.
