If you love dogs -- and I assume you do or you wouldn't be reading this article -- then you are probably going to be tempted at some point in time to become a dog breeder. Not only can you share with others your passion for dogs, you might even earn an income. But there are some points you should consider before you leap right into the dog breeding business.
Let's start with whether or not you have the right dog to breed. If you're seeking success -- either monetary success or wide acceptance of the dogs you breed -- you need to start with a dog with an impeccable pedigree. You will also want to begin with a dog that is free of genetic problems and who has an even temperament.
You don't want to breed a dog with a bad temperament or with a less-than-clean genetic makeup. If you ignore this advice, you'll likely end up with a dog you cannot sell -- you may even end up with still-births instead of live puppies.
Be sure, too, that your dog will be able to nurture and nurse a litter of puppies. Among other things, the potential mom should be at least two years old.
If you're still convinced you have the right dog to breed, let's give thought to the puppies. Do you have enough room for puppies? Do you have enough room for puppies in a space that can handle the noise?
How well do you handle stress? You're going to have to be there for the birth of the puppies -- potentially a 12-hour process. And then you'll clean up after the dogs, wean them, and feed them for a while. The food and other necessities can add up to an appreciable expense, and don't forget that there'll be vet bills, too.
What're you going to do with the puppies. Are they pedigree dogs that you may be able to sell at a profit even after all expenses? Are they mixed-breed dogs you'll give away or possibly sell as a money-losing proposition -- raising dogs as a hobby rather than a business?
I assume that you care what kind of a home the puppies are going to, so you won't just sell/give them to the first person who comes along. You'll want them to go to a good, loving home and to people who will care about their health and welfare.
If you are still committed to breeding your dog, it's time to look for a stud. If your dog is pedigreed, you'll want to be sure the stud dog comes with a pedigree of at least the same high quality. And perhaps you can find a stud dog that is strong where your dog is weak, hoping that their mating will produce puppies that are strong in all areas.
Keep in mind that the ultimate goal here is not to make a lot of money. And it is especially not to make a lot of money at the expense of the dogs' welfare. Breeding quality animals and making sure they remain happy and healthy will provide you with a real sense of fulfillment. Any profit is the bonus, not the purpose.
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