Dog breeding can be an incredibly rewarding experience, but it requires careful planning, extensive knowledge, and a strong commitment to the health and welfare of the dogs involved.
In this ultimate guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to responsibly breed dogs as a beginner. We’ll cover the basics of dog breeding for beginners, how to prepare for the breeding process, what to expect during pregnancy and whelping, how to care for the new puppies, and important considerations for running a responsible dog breeding program. By the end, you’ll have a solid foundation to decide if dog breeding is right for you.
What Are the Basics of Dog Breeding?
Before we dive into the details, let’s review some key concepts and terminology related to dog breeding:
- Bitch: A female dog.
- Stud: A male dog used for breeding.
- Dam: The mother dog.
- Sire: The father dog.
- Whelping: The act of a dog giving birth.
- Litter: A group of puppies born from the same pregnancy.
- Purebred: Dogs whose parents belong to the same breed. Their ancestry can be documented, often through a breed registry like the American Kennel Club and the Kennel Union or Club in your country.
- Mixed breed: Dogs with parents from different breeds, sometimes called “mutts.” Popular mixes like Labradoodles or Puggles are considered “designer dogs.”
At its most basic, dog breeding involves mating a male and female dog to produce puppies that inherit traits from both parents. However, there are many factors to consider in order to breed responsibly, such as the health, temperament, and conformation of the parent dogs. Breeding should aim to preserve and improve desirable breed characteristics while minimizing inherited disorders.
Dog breeding is regulated to varying degrees in different areas. In the US, the American Kennel Club (AKC) is the primary purebred dog registry. They maintain breed standards, record pedigrees, and sanction dog shows and performance events. While AKC registration is not required to breed dogs, many reputable breeders participate in AKC programs and health testing.
What Does Dog Breeding Involve?
Dog breeding is a major undertaking that involves significant time, money, and responsibility. Some key aspects include:
- Selecting parent dogs: Examine pedigrees, health clearances, behavior, and conformation to breed standards. Test for genetic diseases common to the breed.
- Ensuring female is healthy: Have vet confirm good health before breeding. Females should be of proper age/size and have recovered from previous litters.
- Mating: Involves knowing when a female is fertile and arranging successful mating with the stud, either naturally or via artificial insemination. Requires an understanding of the reproductive cycle and ovulation timing.
- Pregnancy and whelping: Provide excellent nutrition, and regular vet care, and prepare a safe, warm whelping area. Assist the bitch during labor if needed and monitor the condition of mom and pups. Puppies are delicate and bitch may be protective.
- Raising the litter: Tremendous amount of cleaning, socialization, vet care for pups until adoption around 8-12 weeks old. Transition pups to solid food. Interview potential owners to find good homes.
- Ongoing support: Quality breeders offer guidance to new owners and take dogs back if needed. May have puppy contracts, health guarantees, help with training, etc.
Responsible breeders invest much more into their dogs and puppies than they will get back financially. While some prized breeds like Frenchies and Doodles can be lucrative if everything goes right, the risk of pricey vet bills and caring for pups that lack buyers can quickly negate profits. Most breeders report breaking even at best. Hobby breeding should be driven by a love of dogs and commitment to bettering the breed, not a desire for money.
How to Choose the Right Breeds for Beginners?
Beginner breeders should consider starting with just one or two dogs to see how they handle a litter before making larger investments. It’s often recommended to pick a breed you know well, perhaps a breed you have owned before. Choosing an uncommon breed with minimal local demand can make placing pups difficult.
When comparing potential breeds, research health concerns, temperaments, exercise needs, and grooming requirements to find a good fit for your experience level and facilities. Some relatively healthy, lower-maintenance breeds that can be good for novices include:
| Breed | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Labrador Retriever | Friendly, trainable, popular | Risk of hip/elbow dysplasia |
| Beagle | Compact size, gets along with kids/dogs | Can be vocal, needs secure exercise area |
| Cavalier King Charles Spaniel | Affectionate lap dog, minimal grooming | Prone to heart problems and syringomyelia |
| Golden Retriever | Intelligent, eager to please | Cancer and joint issues prevalent |
| Greyhound | Quiet, low-odor, short coat | Needs safe fenced area, some hereditary diseases |
In general, giant breeds, brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds, and breeds with long coats are more labor-intensive as newborns and can have more whelping complications. Research breed-specific health problems and pursue all recommended genetic testing before breeding affected breeds.
How Do I Prepare for the Breeding Process?
Preparation is key for a smooth dog breeding experience. Some important steps:
- Have your female dog fully examined by your vet, including any recommended genetic testing for breed. Discuss any risk factors for breeding.
- Choose a genetically-compatible male that complements your female’s weaknesses. Ask to see health testing and study pedigrees to avoid excessive inbreeding. Popular sires overrepresented in a breed can spread genetic diseases.
- Buy essential whelping supplies like a whelping box, scale, heating pad, bulb syringe, thermometer, etc. Have emergency vet’s number handy.
- Set up a warm, quiet whelping area with good lighting and no drafts. Acclimate female to the area before whelping.
- Take time off work if needed to monitor female 24/7 in days leading up to and after due date. Some breeders use nanny cams or sleep next to whelping box.
- Learn how to spot signs of labor. Freeze-dried colostrum and bottles are on hand in case of issues nursing.
- Notify potential puppy buyersthe expectedcted due date. No visitors or new changes in household in 1st month.
What Should I Know About the Heat Cycle of the Bitch?
Female dogs experience a heat cycle, or estrous cycle, about every 6-8 months starting as young as 6 months old until 10+ years old, although most breeders stop breeding around age 6-7. This is the period when the bitch is fertile and her body is preparing for mating and pregnancy. The cycle has four stages:
- Proestrus: Lasts 7-10 days. Vulva swells and bloody discharge appears. Female attracts males but won’t allow mating yet.
- Estrus: Lasts 5-14 days. Discharge lightens in color. Ovulation occurs and female is receptive to mating. This is the fertile period.
- Diestrus: Lasts 60+ days. Pregnancy or pseudopregnancy (false pregnancy) occur. If pregnant, diestrus lasts until whelping.
- Anestrus: Lasts 1-6 months. Uterus is in recovery mode with no hormonal or behavioral signs of heat.
Breeders use combination of behavioral signs, vaginal cytology, and progesterone tests to pinpoint ovulation and time breeding. Most will introduce the stud around day 10 of the heat and may mate the dogs every other day for 2-3 breedings.
How Do I Select a Stud for Mating?
Choosing the right stud is one of the most important decisions a breeder makes to set up a successful litter. Considerations include:
- Health: Stud must have required genetic and health testing for breed.
- Temperament: Look for a good-natured, people-friendly dog.
- Conformation: Stud should be an excellent physical specimen of the breed to hopefully improve on dam’s weaknesses. Proven winners in conformation shows or performance sports are desirable.
- Pedigree: Research lineage to evaluate genetic diversity, health, and titles. Avoid breeding dogs too closely related. Aim for physical and temperamental balance with the dam’s pedigree.
- Prior litters: Examine the quality and health of previous offspring, if available. Has Stud produced puppies before? Any difficulties?
Stud owners may charge a stud fee or take the pick of the litter. They should provide brucellosis testing (venereal disease) and assist with the mating process if needed. A stud contract is useful for detailed terms.
How Do I Care for the Pregnant Bitch?
Pregnancy, called gestation, lasts around 63 days in dogs. Schedule a checkup with your vet when you suspect pregnancy. They can do testing to confirm pregnancy after 4 weeks estimate litter size, and check the general health of the dam.
Care for pregnant dog includes:
- Proper nutrition: Feed a high-quality, nutrient-dense dog food and supplement with puppy food in the last few weeks. Let dam eat to appetite but avoid obesity.
- Exercise: Allow and encourage gentle exercise in the first 4-5 weeks. Scale back to leash walks and keep the dam out of dog parks as pregnancy progresses to avoid injury. No strenuous exercise in the last few weeks.
- Comfort: Provide a calm, stress-free environment. Set up a whelping box for Dam to get used to but don’t allow other pets in it. No flea/tick meds or vaccines during pregnancy unless the vet authorizes it.
- Observation: Take and log the dam’s temperature starting 2 weeks before the due date. Watch for any concerning symptoms like lethargy, vomiting, and lack of appetite. Contact the vet if unsure.
Avoid over-supplementation and do not give calcium supplements during pregnancy unless prescribed by vet to avoid eclampsia. Have supplies ready and emergency vet info on hand as due date nears.
What Are the Signs of Dog Pregnancy?
Signs that a dog is pregnant include:
- Appetite changes
- Weight gain and rounded abdomen
- Increased sleepiness
- More affectionate behavior
- Swollen, pink nipples
- Visible puppy movement in last few weeks
How to Set Up a Whelping Box?
A whelping box provides a safe, warm, clean space for the pregnant bitch to give birth and care for her newborn puppies. Set up the whelping box in a quiet area 1-2 weeks before the due date to let the expectant mother get comfortable with it.
To set up a whelping box:
- Choose a box that is large enough for the dam to lie down and stretch out, with additional room for puppies. Solid walls should be high enough (4-6″) to keep puppies contained but let mom enter and exit easily.
- Line the bottom of the box with a tarp or plastic sheeting, then cover generously with newspaper/puppy pads. This makes cleaning easy – roll up soiled papers and replace them between cleanings.
- Have a heat source like a heating pad or heat lamp safely secured to provide warmth for puppies. Be careful not to overheat. The goal is around 85°F for newborns.
- Keep clean towels, medical scissors, suction bulbs, and trash bags nearby. Paper towels are softer on puppy skin than cloth towels. Allow space for food, water, scale, and any other needed supplies.
Commercial whelping boxes are available, or you can make your own out of wood or a kiddie pool. The AKC has a helpful video on setting up a whelping box:
Whelping Box Video
What Veterinary Support is Required During Pregnancy?
Your veterinarian is an important resource during your dog’s pregnancy. They can confirm pregnancy, estimate litter size, check for any complications, advise on nutrition and care, and help create an emergency plan. Recommended vet care during pregnancy includes:
- Initial checkup to confirm pregnancy around week 4
- Consider x-ray or ultrasound to count puppies around week 6
- Discuss any recommended supplements or dietary changes
- Emergency exam if any concern for mom or babies
- Obtain any needed whelping medications like oxytocin
- Review labor signs and when to call for help
Some vet clinics offer pre-whelping appointments near the end of pregnancy to go over the whelping plan and do a final check on mom. Stay in close communication with your vet and call if you have any questions or concerns during the pregnancy.
What Should I Expect During Whelping?
Whelping is the term for a dog giving birth. Most dogs can whelp on their own without human assistance, but it’s important to monitor the labor and know when to contact a vet for help if needed. Here is a general timeline of what to expect:
- Pre-labor: 1-2 days before labor, the bitch may become restless, stop eating, start nesting, pace, pant, and vomit. Rectal temperature drops below 100°F. Bring your dog to her whelping area at this stage.
- Stage 1: Contractions Begin: Uterine contractions start but are not yet visible. Bitch may appear agitated and uncomfortable. This stage can last 6-12 hours. Keep a watchful eye.
- Stage 2: Active Labor: Contractions are stronger and more frequent. Bitch may cry, strain, or forcefully pant. Puppies and placentas are pushed out one at a time, each taking 30 minutes up to 2 hours. The mother should open the birth sac, clean the pup, and sever the umbilical cord. You can help tear the sac open and cut the cord if needed. Make sure pup is breathing. Track times of birth. Labor should progress; contact vet if over 2 hours pass between puppies or signs of distress.
- Stage 3: Afterbirth: The last of the placentas are passed. Offer food and water to mom. Continue monitoring babies’ health and contact vet if any seem unwell.
Give mom as much quiet space as possible during the delivery, only intervening if absolutely needed. Count placentas to make sure one is delivered for each puppy. Green discharge before the first puppy is an emergency.
What Are Common Whelping Complications?
Even a textbook pregnancy can develop complications during whelping. Being prepared for potential issues is an important part of being a responsible breeder. Some whelping complications to watch for:
- Dystocia: Difficult, unproductive labor. If contractions last over an hour without a puppy emerging, a puppy or placenta is stuck in the birth canal.
- Retained afterbirth: Failing to deliver all placentas. Risk of infection.
- Eclampsia: Life-threatening drop in blood calcium levels. Causes muscle spasms, seizures, high fever. Requires emergency vet care.
- Hemorrhaging: Excessive bleeding from the vulva during or after whelping.
- Metritis: Bacterial infection and inflammation of the uterus. Can occur up to 3 weeks post-whelping. Symptoms include smelly discharge, lethargy, fever, neglectful behavior towards pups.
- Mastitis: Bacterial infection of mammary glands. Causes hot, painful swelling of teats. Can impact milk supply for pups.
- Cannibalism: Bitch destroys or consumes dead or living puppies. Can have many underlying causes like stress, pain, calcium deficiency, or an underlying health issue. Rarely, can be purely behavioral.
Contact your vet immediately if you notice signs of any of these complications, or simply feel something is “off” with mom or pups after delivery. Quick intervention is critical. Well-prepared breeders have necessary whelping supplies and vet information readily available.
How to Assist the Bitch During Whelping?
While nature usually takes its course, sometimes human assistance is needed to ensure a smooth delivery. Here are some ways you can assist your bitch during whelping:
- Keep a close eye on the birth process, tracking times between puppies
- Offer calm, gentle words of encouragement to your bitch
- Help remove puppies stuck in the birth canal if contractions continue without progress
- Tear open birth sacs if bitch doesn’t do it; make sure puppies are breathing
- Tie off umbilical cords about a half inch from the puppy’s body and cut on the far side of the knot if the mother doesn’t sever them
- Help clean off puppies with a warm, damp cloth and gently suction mouth and nose if needed
- Place puppies on a warm towel or heating pad to avoid hypothermia
- Make sure puppies nurse; you may need to assist them in latching onto a nipple
- Keep count of puppies and placentas
- Offer food and water to the bitch, but don’t be surprised if she is not interested during active labor
- Monitor bitch for signs of distress or fatigue and contact vet if labor does not progress
Remember, a normal delivery should have no more than 2 hours between puppies. Most bitches will deliver a pup every 30-60 minutes. If it has been over 2 hours with no puppy or your bitch is in obvious distress, call your vet immediately. It’s always better to be overly cautious.
When to Call the Veterinarian During Whelping?
Knowing when to seek professional help can quite literally be the difference between life and death for a whelping bitch and her pups. Do not hesitate to contact a veterinarian if you observe:
- Over 2 hours of active contractions without a puppy being delivered
- Over 1 hour of active straining with a visible puppy stuck in birth canal
- Bleeding from the vulva for over 10 minutes
- Green discharge before the first puppy (sign of placental abruption)
- Trembling, collapsing, or seizuring at any point (eclampsia risk)
- Extreme lethargy or unresponsiveness
- Foul-smelling discharge from vulva during or after delivery
- Puppies that appear weak, limp, cold, or are not breathing
- Bitch neglecting or behaving aggressively towards pups
- Anything else that seems ‘off’ or causes you concern
Keep your vet’s contact information as well as local emergency clinic information in an easily accessible spot. If transporting mom and pups, keep them warm and confined in a whelping box or laundry basket lined with clean towels. Every second counts in an emergency.
How to Care for New Puppies?
The first few weeks of a puppy’s life are critical for their health and development. They are completely dependent on their mother for warmth, nutrition, and elimination. However, human caretakers also play important roles in these early weeks:
- Warmth: Newborn puppies cannot thermoregulate. Keep whelping area around 85-90°F for the first 5 days, then slowly lower temp over next 4 weeks. Avoid drafts.
- Nursing: Most puppies can find a nipple and nurse instinctively. Ensure each pup has an opportunity to nurse. Puppies should nurse every 2 hours. Contact vet if any pup is not gaining weight.
- Monitoring: Weigh each puppy daily on a kitchen scale. Record weights to track growth. Average weight gain is 10-15% of body weight per day. Inspect pups for cleft palates, umbilical hernias, and other abnormalities.
- Gentle handling: Accustom pups to human touch but avoid unnecessary handling in first 2 weeks. Wash hands before touching pups.
- Environment: Keep whelping box clean and dry. Change bedding at least daily. Gradually introduce toys and new textures as pups grow.
- Veterinary care: Schedule an initial vet visit for pups at 3-4 weeks for an exam and the first deworming. Discuss the vaccination schedule.
Puppies will open their eyes around 10-14 days and become more mobile and vocal after that. Start the weaning process around 3-4 weeks by offering a shallow dish of puppy mush (kibble softened with puppy milk replacer). The dam will handle less frequent nursing sessions on her own.
How to Socialize the Litter Effectively?
Proper socialization during the critical period between 3-12 weeks has a profound, lasting impact on a puppy’s temperament and behavior. Well-socialized pups tend to become well-adjusted adult dogs. Breeders should begin a structured socialization protocol while pups are still in their care:
- Introduce daily gentle handling from multiple people starting week 3
- Let pups experience different surfaces like carpet, tile, grass, wood, etc.
- Play different sounds like vacuums, doorbells, appliances, music, etc.
- Allow supervised interaction with well-behaved adult dogs
- Arrange short car rides and exposure to novel environments
- Have pups experience being alone in crate or pen for brief periods
- Practice holding, brushing, looking at teeth – get pups used to handling
The goal is happy, confident puppies that recover quickly from startling and show curiosity rather than fear in new situations. Keep socialization positive and let pups advance at their own pace. Well-run puppy classes are an excellent way to continue socialization after adoption.
When Can Puppies Be Placed in New Homes?
The ideal time to send a puppy to its forever home is 8-12 weeks of age. By this age, puppies are fully weaned, have had initial vaccinations and deworming, and have benefited from early socialization with their mother and littermates. They are ready to bond with a new family and continue their training and socialization.
Puppies that are rehomed earlier than 8 weeks can miss out on crucial developmental milestones and may be at higher risk for behavioral issues and even health problems. Many states actually have laws in place dictating how old puppies must be before they are sold or adopted out. No responsible breeder will let pups go before 8 weeks.
On the other end, pups kept with their breeder past 12 weeks or so can miss out on formative bonding and socialization time with new owners. They may struggle more with transitions and novel experiences. Of course, sometimes pups are held back longer for show/performance evaluations or due to lack of suitable homes – just be sure to implement an enriching socialization protocol if keeping pups longer.
How to Responsibly Approach Dog Breeding as a Beginner?
Responsible dog breeders prioritize the health and wellbeing of their breeding dogs and the puppies they produce above all else. They are not simply after a quick paycheck, but rather have a sincere desire to preserve and better their chosen breed. Some key tenets of responsible breeding:
- Education: Learn as much as you can about your breed, canine health, behavior, genetics, grooming, and training. Join local breed clubs, attend seminars, pursue mentorship.
- Health testing: Perform all recommended health clearances on breeding stock, including genetic testing. Share results openly with buyers and other breeders.
- Honesty: Be transparent about your dogs’ health, temperaments, and pedigrees. Don’t make grandiose claims about your program or puppies.
- Limited breeding: Resist the urge to have back-to-back litters or keep more breeding dogs than you can manage. Don’t breed just to produce puppies; have a clear vision.
- Contracts: Use written contracts for stud services, co-ownerships, and puppy sales. Consider health guarantees, spay/neuter agreements, and restrictions on breeding.
- Support: Offer extensive pre-purchase counseling to potential homes. Be willing to take a puppy back at any age if the owner can no longer keep them. Provide resources and guidance to all puppy owners.
- Ethics: Consider the impact of your breeding decisions on your puppies, your dogs, and your breed as a whole. Put the dogs’ needs above your own.
Responsible breeders are in it for the long haul. Many operate at a financial loss in order to fund health testing, emergency vet care, stud fees, and proper rearing of their litters. They are passionate advocates for their breed and for purebred dogs in general.
What Are the Legal Considerations in Dog Breeding Process?
Dog breeding is regulated at the federal, state, and sometimes local levels. Familiarize yourself with relevant laws before getting started. In the US, dog breeding falls under the oversight of the Animal Welfare Act (AWA) enforced by the USDA. Any breeder with 4+ breeding females and who sells sight unseen (like over the internet) must be licensed and inspected by the USDA.
Commercial breeders, defined differently by each state, are typically subject to further regulations regarding things like kennel construction, sanitation, vet care, record keeping, etc. So-called “puppy mills” are commercial breeding facilities that put profit over welfare and fail to meet animals’ needs. Many states are cracking down on these operations.
Hobby breeders with only a few litters per year are generally subject to fewer regulations, but it’s still important to review relevant laws regarding:
- Minimum age at which pups can be rehomed
- Maximum number of litters per year
- Mandatory microchipping, vaccinations, and health certificates
- Consumer protection laws related to puppy sales
- Zoning and limit laws restricting number of dogs on property
Organizations like the AKC and HSVMA have information on breeder laws. Don’t forget to report any income from puppy/stud fee sales to the IRS. An accountant can help you set up your breeding operation to maximize deductions for your expenses.
What Resources Are Available for Beginner Dog Breeders?
Beginner dog breeders have more resources than ever before to help them launch a successful breeding program:
- Breed clubs: National and regional breed clubs are an invaluable source of information on the history, health, temperament, and care of your breed. Most hold regular educational events.
- Mentorship: Many experienced breeders are happy to guide novices. Reach out to breeders you admire and see if they’ll let you shadow them or answer questions.
- Seminars/webinars: Attend repro vet seminars, breeding management webinars, puppy rearing courses, etc. to further your knowledge. Many are offered online.
- Books: Start a breeding library with titles on canine reproduction, neonatal care, genetics, and breed-specific resources. Used books can be sourced cheaply.
- Online courses: Online learning platforms offer self-paced courses on dog breeding, whelping, puppy development, etc. Be sure the instructor is reputable.
- Fellow breeders: Connect with other breeders at dog shows, performance events, seminars, and online. Many are happy to help you troubleshoot issues. Be respectful of their time.
- Breeding software: Apps like Kintraks and Breeder’s Assistant can help you manage pedigrees, puppies, waiting lists, and expenses. Use photos and thorough record keeping.
Your most important resource is a good reproductive veterinarian. Establish a relationship early on, ideally with a vet who has experience with your breed. They can give you tailored guidance throughout the breeding process.
Conclusion
Breeding dogs is not a responsibility to take on lightly, but it can be incredibly rewarding for those who approach it with care, compassion, and a commitment to ethics. The joys of shepherding new life into the world and watching your puppies grow into cherished companions are unmatched.
Just remember to always prioritize the health and wellbeing of your dogs above all else. Invest in your education, lean on available resources and fellow breeders, and start small to gain experience. By following the tips laid out in this guide, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a successful breeder.
Still think dog breeding might be for you? Start by finding a reputable breeder of your chosen breed to learn from. Attend a dog show to meet breeders and their dogs. Read all you can about the breed, and honestly assess whether you have the time, resources, and dedication to do the breed justice. With careful preparation and a love for dogs, breeding can become an immensely gratifying labor of love.
I hope you found this beginner’s guide to dog breeding informative and inspiring. Feel free to save it for future reference, and share it with any other aspiring breeders you may know.
