The problem: Breeding ground rules

“I am considering breeding from my young labrador bitch but have to confess to being overwhelmed by all the advice I am getting. Any thoughts?”

- JAMES CONROY, STAFFORDSHIRE

First I would say that breeding from your only dog can be fraught and is not entirely without risk. If you are under the impression that she somehow must have a litter to improve her health, think again. You should have a good reason for wanting to breed from her; for example, to keep a puppy, carry on desirable characteristics, improve the breed generally or produce a puppy for a friend.

Pause for thought

Before considering the multitude of testing that should be carried out on a prospective mum, please consider her suitability for breeding. Is her confirmation of an acceptable standard? Is she too fat or are her legs too short? Do you look at her through rose-tinted spectacles? Is she affected by any of the health issues that are inherited but for which there is no test available? (The list is long but includes Addison’s and Cushing’s diseases, heart problems, skin allergies, and epilepsy.) Is breeding from her likely to be detrimental to her welfare, especially her temperament? Also, take into account your circumstances: do you have the time, the place, the financial ability, and, most importantly, the stomach?

First steps