INTRODUCTION to Dog Breeding Tips for Beginners
If you’ve been thinking of getting into the business of dog breeding, you may be hesitant. After all, in many cases, there is a fine line between an ethical breeder and a backyard breeder. Making a mistake or not considering all your legal requirements can place you in a bad position. Unfortunately, this is quite common for those who have just started out, as many get tangled up in the law.
So, if you’re a beginner dog breeder, where and who do you turn to? At DBBC, they have prepared the following rundown of dog breeding tips to ensure you get it right the first time.
Tips For Dog Breeding – How Often to Breed
Bitches start coming into heat around 24 months of age. Their heat cycles can vary, but they usually come on the heat once every eight months. Some companion pets can be bred once every heat cycle and some need to have a cycle to rest. This is usually based on the number of puppies she whelmed in the first season. Other factors also include her body condition during pregnancy, whelping, and lactation.
Those bitches who have large litters are likely going to be too thin or weak to breed again in their next heat cycle. Where those who only had a few puppies will potentially breed again. DBBC’s dog breeding tips always recommend you get your dog assessed by a vet, whether you’re a beginner dog breeder or not.
Dog Breeding for Beginners – What to Feed a Pregnant Dog
Just like when a human is pregnant, dogs need more nutrients than ever to sustain increasing energy needs. Using growth or performance foods, which are nutrient-dense, means she can sustain her energy without excess food. As a general dog breeding tip, when she begins whelping the bitch should weigh 5-10% more than before breeding.
These nutrient-dense foods can help her put on weight without becoming obese. This is essential as obesity can lead to whelping and lactation issues. In the same way, if she doesn’t put on enough weight during pregnancy, she is at risk of conception failure.
Breeding Dog Tips – What Causes Small Litters
When breeding your bitch, you want her to produce a good-sized litter. A larger litter is best for serving the market demand so all customers can receive the pup of their dreams. However, breeding at the wrong time can cause small litters.
If you are looking to produce a large litter, you must follow these dog breeding tips for beginners:
● Breed two days post-ovulation
● Ensure your bitch is healthy before breeding
● Feed them a nutrient-rich diet
● Ensure your companion pet remains in a healthy weight range
I’ve Heard Of The Runt, What Does This Mean?
As a beginner dog breeder, you may be aware that many litters have a runt. The runt is essentially the puppy which is much smaller or weaker than its brothers and sisters. They likely had poor placentation during the bitch’s pregnancy, which caused their weaker status.
Though these pups are placed at a disadvantage, seeking the support of a vet can give them the best opportunity. Just be sure to keep an eye on them and pay them extra care where possible. Some runts may need to be hand fed or separated from their siblings to help improve their chances of survival.
What Is the Best Dog Breed for Beginners?
This can differ for all beginner dog breeders. At DBBC, they recommend considering your experience with dogs and specific dog breeds. For example, if you’ve only ever owned small dogs, I wouldn’t recommend you move on to large dogs. This means you will need to learn their breed-specific breeding habits, plus their care needs all at once.
When looking for the best breed of dogs for beginners, you will likely be pointed toward huskies, Labradors, and shepherds. These dogs are known for being highly fertile and can produce large litters. However, as mentioned, you must always consider your experience with specific breeds. All three of these breeds are working dogs, which can be difficult to raise.
It’s always best to work with a breed you are familiar with caring for. Though they may take longer to breed, this can ensure you know how to meet all their needs.
Dog Breeding Tips for Beginners – Don’t forget your legal requirements
Dog breeding has become the focus of attention for many government organizations. No longer can you breed a dog and expect to make a profit. You now need to consider your legal and ethical obligations.
From providing pedigree papers to scheduling vet appointments at the right intervals, pet breeding can turn into an expensive hobby. It’s important you do your research before embarking on your pet breeding journey. This will guarantee you are seen as ethical in the eyes of the law and don’t risk any fines. But, it can also protect the health and safety of your companion pets.
DBBC Is Here to Provide Dog Breeding Tips
At DBBC, they understand that breeding is no easy feat, especially with the legalities mentioned above. If you are ready to get started with breeding, they are always happy to guide you in the right direction. Reach out to them today to find out more tips for dog breeding.
About the Author
Shyne Cavalli is an accomplished writer, Dog Breeder, and Animal welfare advocate. License and breeding registration holders: BIN: BIN0002583563378 – NCPI: 9002252 – DBBC: D8819 – AA: 93740. She has introduced the “SHM” her brand of puppies and nurtured and cared for them since 2015. To learn more, visit her website at www.dogbreedersbrisbane.com.au and www.malteseshihtzucrosspuppies.com.au. Interested in joining a Dog Breeders Club? Go to: www.dbbc.com.au
Shyne Cavalli is an accomplished Dog Breeder, and Animal welfare advocate. License and breeding registration holders: SUPPLY #: BIN0002583563378 – DBBC: D8819 – AA: 93740. She has introduced the “SHM” her brand of puppies and nurtured and cared for them since 2015. To learn more, visit her website at www.dogbreedersbrisbane.com.au. Interested in joining a Dog Breeders Club? Go to: www.dbbc.com.au