Responsible Dog Breeders Do Not
Contribute To The Wrong Image
Of Dog Breeding

By Teri Champigny

Dog breeding is a career that should be pursued by those who are passionate about dogs and are truly concerned about a breed. It is certainly not for those who are in it for money. The truth is that if you are a responsible dog breeder you might not be making much money in the business. In fact, many times you will be glad that you have not lost money. But then responsible dog breeders are not concerned about money. They care for the breed. In order to become a successful breeder one has to first become a responsible breeder, first.

All Responsible Breeders Follow Certain Guidelines:

• Love and enjoy your dogs. Remember that you started dog breeding because you love dogs. Never fail to show your love and always spend time with your lot of dogs. Never treat them as breeding machines with no emotions. Dogs are very humble creatures and they will love you unconditionally.

• The reason behind dog breeding should be the improvement of that breed. Any other reason besides this does not justify dog breeding. Developing a bloodline with positive traits requires years of hard work and discipline. A responsible breeder is committed to the improvement of the type, temperament, movement, and health of his dog’s breed.

• A responsible breeder is not blind to the faults in his dogs. A good breeder knows the faults in his dogs and will find a mate that will help remove the faults. A good breeder is always open to the other point of view.

• A responsible breeder knows that good puppies are the result of healthy and happy parents. He takes constant care of his sire and dam. He will take them for regular veterinary care, screen for genetic problems, conduct pre-breeding health tests, give regular exercise and good nutrition to his dogs. A responsible breeder knows that mental health is as important as physical health; therefore, he maintains his dog’s health. Shy and unstable dogs should not be bred.

• A responsible breeder nurtures the puppies. Taking care of puppies is a lot of work. He is prepared for unusual situations, like when the dam has no milk to offer or when the puppies are orphaned. In such a case a responsible breeder would readily take up the responsibility of feeding and cleaning the pups at regular interval. Believe me pups need to be fed quite often.

• Finally a responsible breeder will do everything possible to find loving homes for the puppies. He knows that he is responsible for bringing the puppy into this world and will ensure that he has a healthy and loving life.

When you find a breeder following these guidelines, you know that you are dealing with a responsible and good breeder.