Dog breeding can be very rewarding, but there are many things you have to consider for success. That's why today, our Lakewood vets are sharing tips on successful dog breeding, breeding consultations, and the procedures involved.
Dog Breeding
When you want to start breeding dogs there are several things to take into consideration before even starting the breeding process. It could take a significant investment of time, patience, study, money, and vet visits.
The first thing you should know about this process is that your goal should be to enhance the breed and not just the quantity of puppies. Many things can go wrong if careful consideration is not taken including cognitive defects. Learn everything you can about your dog and the breed you want to reproduce such as its strengths, weaknesses, common illnesses/ diseases, and more. Do this by reading books, researching online, talking to your vets and professional breeders, and attending breeding consultations.
Selecting Your Dogs
When selecting a bitch (female dog) and stud (male dog) you have to make sure they have a good temper and are fit and healthy. Our vets will be able to perform the necessary tests during the breeding consultations to make sure they are both well enough and suitable for reproducing a successful purebred litter and don't pass anything down to the puppies.
The dogs you select to mate also have to be of an appropriate age, especially for females who should be at least one year old and have had their first full season (dog menstruation). And the stud should have a compatible pedigree with your bitch to be able to breed.
Breeding Consultations
Breeding consultations include the following reproductive services:
- Ovulation timing
- Semen collection, evaluation
- Estrus induction and suppression in females
- Pregnancy diagnosis and management
- C-sections
These tests and consultations are very important to help ensure the health of both the dogs being mated and their soon-to-be-born puppies, therefore it is highly recommended to bring your dogs to a breeding consultant prior to attempting to breed a litter.
Medical Procedures For Dog Breeding
When reproductive planning for dogs there are many other medical tests and procedures that are required and recommended to help with the breeding process.
Progesterone Testing
Vet progesterone testing consists of testing the bitch for fertility issues and abnormalities as well as determining where they are in their ovulation cycle. These tests can be performed in the form of a blood test which can be more accurate than the progesterone kits. The accuracy of these tests is extremely important and is a key part of successful breeding and helps pinpoint the best time to breed. Vets recommend getting this test done after the bitch's heat cycle has started on day five.
Wellness Exams
Wellness exams are important for both the bitch and stud. These routine exams check for the overall health and well-being of the dogs making sure they are in optimal shape for the breeding process. These exams can include checking the eyes, coat, lungs, heart, and more looking for any abnormalities. Blood tests and urine tests could also be recommended.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.