Understanding the breeding process will help you identify the quality of the puppy or dog that you wish to purchase. The following is the last (eighth) part in a series of eight articles about breeding dogs. Although it applies to a dog, it also applies to cats. People do not realize that there are cat mills which are like puppy mills. Note that these articles are based on my years of experience, my opinion and that I do not intend to refer to any individual. Please read the entire eight articles to glean a full understanding of breeding.

Part Eight

The Stud

As the owner of a male dog that you wish to stud, you have responsibilities as well. As stated in Part One, only the best bitches and males should be bred. The only reason to breed is to better the breed.

The male should be evaluated by an ethical breeder to determine that he is the quality to breed. This should also be reflected by wins in either the conformation show ring or as a working dog in working competitions.

The male dog must have all the medical testing that the bitch has, to include all genetic issues that the breed may have. A temperament test is also necessary.

As the owner of the stud, you may be required to board the bitch for breeding. Often when two dogs are kept for breeding, they both will cry, howl and bark day and night.

Do you know how to handle the problem bitch who does not want to be bred or the male who has not been bred before and needs help?

Are you qualified to judge a five-generation pedigree to determine if the bitch is a good match with your stud dog?

If the owner of the bitch is not experienced, are you qualified to advise the owner about whelping, raising puppies and selling them?

Do you know at what point in the bitch’s season is the correct time to breed them and how often?

What kind of guarantee will you give to the owner of the bitch? If the breeding doesn’t take, will you provide your stud in six months for a re-breeding?

Are you prepared, if the owner of the bitch cannot cope with the litter, to take the litter and be responsible for caring for and selling the puppies? It has happened where the owner of the litter dumps the entire litter on the owner of the stud.

In conclusion for both male and female dog owners. Keep in mind that there are only so many people willing to own a dog. The shelters are loaded with dogs and cats that people have given up for many reasons. Often because they got tired of caring for the pet, or an elderly family member passed away, and no one wants the pet. Some dogs and cats are put up for adoption because the owners could not deal with the level of energy or could or would not train the pet to be a well-behaved companion. Every breeder or stud dog owner who produces a puppy or kitten, potentially condemns one to death. Therefore, make sure that you have a good reason for breeding. I am not saying that you should not breed, we need different breeds to perform the many jobs that they do for us but be sure that the puppies you produce are the best and worth it.