Many canine lovers can find themselves asking how to become a registered dog breeder when they own many dogs. What they fail to realize is that there is so much more to being one.
Sure, anybody can produce a litter of puppies, but not all can be successful in doing so. A breeder must be prepared mentally, physically, and financially to become effective. If you are considering breeding dogs, below is what you need to know.
Dog Breeding is a Commitment
Before getting into the dog breeding business, ask yourself this question: what is your reason for wanting to breed dogs?
If “to make money” is your answer, canine breeding may not be the right career for you. This is because this business is challenging, time-consuming, and costly. And, it is a full-time commitment that does not always guarantee a huge profit.
So why do people get into dog breeding?
Responsible breeders devote their energy, time, and money to producing puppies because they want to improve their breed with the hopes of making money doing so. They love taking care of their dogs and finding them a good family to go home to.
To become a successful dog breeder, you have to understand what you are getting yourself into and be prepared for it.
While canine breeding can be rewarding, it can also be frustrating. If you are not ready for feeding, cleaning up, grooming, vet visits, and training, it is advised not to go into this line of work.
Dog Breeding Costs Money
Successful canine breeders understand that breeding animals are more than just finding a stud for their female dog and selling her puppies. Breeding involves knowing how much it costs to run a kennel and having the money for it.
It all starts with buying a female dog and factoring in the cost of her food and supplements. These can range from $125 to $600 per year. Then, you will need to find a stud and pay a fee of $100 to $1,500.
You will also need to set aside $150 to $600 annually for prenatal, birth, and postnatal care. Additional expenses during the breeding process include ultrasounds, progesterone tests, and clearances.
Aside from the breeding expenses, you will need to have a comfortable and secure space for your bitch and her puppies.
Supplies you will need to have at hand include formula, a whelping box, bedding, and toys. Other expenses include veterinary visits, vaccinations, medications, obedience classes, and registration.
Dog Breeding Involves Choosing the Right Breed
Most prospective breeders already have a breed in mind before they even start breeding dogs. If you still have to decide on yours, consider attending a dog show. Here, you will be able to watch dogs in action and study each of their pedigree.
You will also get an overview of the etiquette and rules of the dog breeding business. Furthermore, you will get to meet other canine breeders and owners who can help you find the potential dog that matches your breeding criteria.
Dog Breeding Means Expanding Your Network
If you are new to the dog breeding business, you must find like-minded people who are experienced in the same field. This way, you can get all the advice and tips you need to become the successful canine breeder you want to be.
As mentioned earlier, a good place to meet a mentor is in a dog show. Event judges and fellow canine breeders will be able to help you make the best decisions while you are still getting the hang of the dog breeding business.
Another place to meet an expert in canine breeding is the internet. Numerous online communities conduct open discussions for all those who are passionate about dogs. You can join a forum or leave a message on a group board.
Chances of you getting free advice from people across the globe are likely.
Dog Breeding Requires Knowledge
Successful dog breeders have one thing in common: they are all knowledgeable about their breed of choice.
They know their canine’s temperament, health, genetic defects, feeding requirements, grooming needs, training needs, and exercise needs like the back of their hand.
They know all these by reading relevant books, researching their breed, joining dog forums, and asking questions to the right people.
But why is it important to be knowledgeable about your breed?
Every responsible canine breeder knows that it is their job to educate their prospective buyers about their breed. If you want to earn people’s trust, you must know your dog extremely well to comfortably answer any question that gets thrown at you.
By being an expert in your field, you will be prepared for any problems that may come your way. You will also be regarded by the community as someone who can be counted on when it comes to breeding dogs.