Breeding Best Practices
How many dogs should a reputable breeder have? Some folks claim that having nine or ten is the minimum needed to develop a good breeding program. Others think only one or two bitches with outside studs is best. Though the breeder likely won’t have you visit the pups until they are 7-8 weeks old, it’s best to be at the top of the visiting list.
Responsible breeders ensure female dogs are bred no more than once per year, and typically breed no more than two or three litters per year. This ensures enough time to dedicate to properly raising the puppies. Additionally, reputable breeders will cap even their fittest, best mothers at around 4-6 litters so she can be spayed while still young and healthy.
The number of litter per dam is one such matter that defines how reputable a breeder is. Regulated litters from the same dam are limited to four or five by the United Kennel Club and other nations. The United States/the American Kennel Club actually has no legal limit on the number of litters a single dog can produce. However, an ethical breeder will be taking many factors into consideration when it comes to the number of litters their dogs produce.
Preservation and Quality of Breed
In order to preserve the breed, a reputable dog breeder must abide by the written breed standard and conform to it. Their goal is to produce dogs that are as close to the standard as possible, which are healthy, structurally sound, and with balanced temperaments. A dog breeder’s breeding practices are often directly reflected by the quality of dogs they produce.
Simplifying the Search for a Reputable Breeder
Instead of expecting people to attend dog shows, spend several months reading up on health testing, then having to sit on a long waitlist before they are able to get a dog, we should simplify the process as much as possible. Here is my definition of a reputable breeder: Health – All health testing is done, no excuses, no "my vet said they look ok" Certifications.
Nutritional Guidelines and Dog Feeds
Minimum nutritional guidelines indicate products contain at least that nutrient value. Maximums indicate no more than those nutrients.
Guaranteed Analysis:
- Should represent actual nutrients.
Protein Needs:
- Depends on age, activity, reproduction, and health.
- AAFCO guidelines: 22.5% protein for growth/reproduction, 18% for adult maintenance.
Calorie Needs:
- Use the calorie estimator as a starting point.
- Adjust based on dog’s body condition and vet input.
- Maintain a healthy weight.