Info on becoming an ANKC Breeder with a mentor

I get asked quite a lot “How do I become a breeder”. This page is a guide, a starting point to head you in the right direction. It is by no means everything you need to know.

I mentor a few people and help them with all aspects of breeding. This includes choosing the right dogs using pedigrees, COI, DNA info, and of course Breed standard and temperaments.

The biggest questions you should ask yourself are

Why Do I Want To Breed?

Will I be a Guardian of my Breed?

Will I make my Breed, Better than I found it or Worse?

Are you financially able to pay for all costs upfront in relation to stud service, breeding vet costs, and any emergency vet costs?

If you are ready to become a breeder read on

Step 1 Are you a member of Dogs NSW or similar state body?

Step 2 Join your state body Here is the link to DOGS Australia

Step 3 If you haven’t already, Purchase a purebred dog on Mains Register and transfer into your name and membership number.

Be honest with the breeder you are purchasing from. Tell them you want to breed. Do your research make sure the pup is good quality and all DNA tests have been done on the parents. GET COPIES OF ALL TESTING. Ask your breeder to mentor you. If they aren’t willing too, I would probably choose to not buy from them.

Interested in showing your mains registered dog?

Step 4 Apply for a breeders prefix.

Here is the link

Step 5 Choosing the right dog to mate with your dog.

Here’s where your mentor should help with assessing your animal and siting what is acceptable and unacceptable in your dog. Choosing a dog that compliments yours and addresses any faults and or traits your dog might have.

Step 6 Mating

Once again a mentor will advise on mating procedures and the best way to achieve the results you are wanting. Advice on looking after your pregnant bitch feeding etc

Step 7 Whelping

Having pups can be extremely stressful. Some breeds require a caesarean and others whelp naturally. Having someone to guide you and to answers any questions at anytime is very beneficial. I have been breeding for almost 30 years and still come across something new occasionally. Having a great vet on hand is extremity important too.

Step 8 The Litter

Weighing pups daily is very important. Feeding any by bottle that needs it. Making sure Mum is eating enough, cleaning the pups, letting everyone drink as much as they want. Eventually weaning onto solids.

Step 9 Making sure the pups are sold to responsible people.

What to ask potential new owners.

Do they have a fenced yard?

Where will dog live?

Have they experience with the breed?

Have they small children? Ages?

Will dog be taken to puppy school or socialisation classes?