Dog Breeding - Understanding The Pros And Cons

Breeding your dog should never be done on a whim or just because the kids would like to have some puppies in the house ...

Deciding to breed your female dog is a big decision, and one that shouldn’t be taken lightly. There are many considerations that include both your commitment to finding the best possible male to breed her with, as well as dealing with any possible health concerns that may develop during the pregnancy, birth or afterwards.

Pros to Breeding Your Dog

People that have purebred dogs may be interested in breeding their female providing the following questions can be answered with a “yes”:

1. Is the female a champion dog with championship lineage?
2. Is the male dog a champion dog with championship lineage?
3. Do the female and male dog have a great personality and do they exhibit the best possible temperament for the breed?
4. Are both the male and female dog certified as free from genetic or other health conditions?
5. Are both dogs certified as healthy by a vet?
6. Are both dogs up-to-date on all vaccinations, worming and flea treatments?
7. Is the female dog at least two years of age and has it been at least one year since her last litter?
8. Can you financially afford any treatments that may be required for either the female or the puppies should there by any emergencies or other conditions arise?
9. Do you have the time and space to house a litter of puppies?
10. Are the puppies pre-sold and are the buyers able to provide appropriate homes?

With pre-selling of the puppies you are assured that the puppies will be able to go to the best possible homes. It also allows you, as the dog breeder, to interview and decide which prospective owners will be the best for your puppies now and in the future.

Cons to Breeding Your Dog

Most of the cons or negatives to breeding your dog have to do with health concerns and issues with both the female and the puppies. Remember that there is no guarantee, no matter how healthy the female and male are, that there will not be issues during pregnancy, whelping, or even with the puppies themselves.

Female dogs that have had a litter of pups are more likely to develop breast and ovarian cancers, as well as bladder control problems and even reproductive system infections that can be fatal. Some breeds are also prone to difficulties in whelping, giving birth to puppies, and may need veterinary assistance to have the litter. Without constant supervision these females can actually have huge complications during delivery that can result in death.

The puppies themselves will need vet check-ups and at least their first set of vaccinations before they are sent on to their new homes. In addition puppies may have complications and health issues that require ongoing vet support. Planning in advance is not always possible for these events but having the funds to be able to treat the puppies is very important.

While choosing to breed your dog is often an emotional issue it is important to think it through. Breeding your dog should never be done on a whim or just because the kids would like to have some puppies in the house. Having puppies can be a very rewarding experience when researched and well planned.

Article by Kelly Marshall of Oh My Dog Supplies - the spot for raised dog bowls.

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