Recently, I've heard several discussions where people who haven't bred canines are going into that business to make extra cash. My initial concern is the thought of another despicable puppy mill. Breeding dogs can be a very rewarding experience as long as you know what you are doing, what to expect and can care for the pups humanely.  There are several challenges involved in this field including the time it takes, the cost, the right foods and tools, and of course, lots of affection.

If you are considering this business, there's much research you should do before beginning.  For one, kennel permits are required in certain states. It's always a good idea to talk to other breeders and if possible, ask if you can visit their facilities.  This will give you an example operation to go by instead of trying to figure it all out yourself.  Plus, you may be able to obtain a stud from their facility with the appropriate papers and tests for your new venture.  Costs for a good stud usually start at four hundred dollars.

 

It's important that you have enough space to care for the dogs.  You never want to put more than one dog in a crate. <a href="http://www.petbedsunlimited.com/dog_crates.html">Dog crates</a> should be big enough for the breed you've selected to comfortably stand, turn around and lie down.  A good crate isn't cheap so take into consideration these costs.  Other costs to remember are things like the tools you'll need for breeding.  Things like extra towels, nutritious adult and puppy food, scales, feeding bowls, suction bulbs, potential veterinary bills, vitamins, droppers, toys and more.  The breeding of canines is a business, not a hobby.

Then you need to obtain a bitch.  Selection of breed is important. Picking a popular breed is safest. Be sure to research the American Kennel Club criteria for the breed. The bitch must be a minimum of two years old before you can subject her to breeding. The female should be licensed and have had all her tests to show that she is healthy. You don't want to take a chance if she has health issues. Typical tests would include hip x-rays and eye exams at a minimum. A good bitch for breeding can run eight hundred dollars. Again, these are all costs to be aware of before starting this type of business.

Typically, the female is taken to where the stud is located for mating. This way, the stud owner can assist the process if needed. This is especially helpful if your female is a beginner. In some cases it doesn't always work out.  Some dogs just don't get along and your stud fee should be returned, or the female may not get pregnant. If she does get pregnant, remember that she should be regularly checked out by a vet. After all, the point of this type of venture is to have healthy puppies. 

Whether you are breeding to have puppies to keep, give away or sell, there's alot involved in the process.  As I see new people coming into this field, I can only hope that they are doing it properly.  That means always caring for your canines, both the adults and the puppies.  There is certainly money to be made on pedigreed dogs, but you should have the space, the money, the patience and the compassion required.

 

About the Author

Debbie Foster is the owner of Pet Beds Unlimited and an avid animal lover. You’ll find a wide selection of quality pet beds, dog crates, dog carriers, dog pens, cat beds, cat carriers,large dog beds, pet strollers and more at http://petbedsunlimited.com.