Are You Thinking About Breeding Your Labrador Retrievers
Are you thinking about breeding your Labrador retrievers? It is certainly an idea that many Lab owners will have at some time or another but there are a number of things to consider before deciding to take the plunge into canine breeding. Of course there are two distinct reasons why anyone would want to begin breeding Labrador Retrievers. The first to produce a litter for themselves and family, the second is as a commercial operation.
Whatever your motivation it should be remembered that not all pregnancies result in a happy, healthy litter. And, if you have the female dog, breeding a litter at home can be a great experience for the first time breeder or it can be an unmitigated disaster. It is obviously very important to make sure you have the best possible pairing of dogs. Each dog must have a good temperament, be in top physical shape and free from disease. Each animals lineage should be checked to ensure there are no inherited problems such as hip dysplasia.
Labradors usually end up living with a family so it is crucial they have the temperament to live in the family with both children and adults. So the breeding pair must be of the right temperament. It is as important as their health.
Inbreeding must be avoided, so it is essential that the pedigrees of each breeding pair is checked to avoid the danger they are too closely related. If the pair are closely related it can be detrimental to the health of the puppies, poor temperament and weaken the bloodline.
Before mating it is advisable to let the dogs get to know each other and, ideally, each dog should be over two years-of-age. By this time any temperamental or health issues should be apparent. Breeding Labrador Retrievers is not a decision to rush into but it should be remembered that finding the right pair of dogs is only the beginning of the process. Once the mating has taken place and pregnancy is confirmed the real work begins.
Taking care of the bitch during pregnancy can take a lot of work as can the whelping process. After the mum has produced her litter taking care of the puppies, and finding good homes for the puppies is a time-consuming and potentially expensive undertaking.
On a final point, you should not underestimate the importance of finding good owners for the pups. You will not let them go to just anyone So if you are unsure that potential owners can offer the pups a caring and loving environment, be prepared to turn them down.
Looking for the best information on Labrador Retreivers – look no further than the Labrador Retriever Guide an online resource for all Labrador owners including a complete history of the Labrador Retriever
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