Breeding for success

Two Dalmatian puppies; one having its stomach rubbed

Whether for sale, hobby, or show, breeding companion animals can be a rewarding experience, impacting the lives of animals, their owners, and your community. Practices that prioritize the health and wellbeing of breeding animals and their offspring can maximize the rewards for all involved—and promote breed quality for future generations.

As a breeder, you can optimize your success and honor your love for the breed(s) by partnering with a veterinarian to develop and maintain a successful, healthy operation. For dog breeders, one way to do this is by working with an attending veterinarian for commercial dog breeders.

Best practices for breeding

Achieving high standards for breeding programs starts with these fundamental steps:

  • Becoming familiar with hereditary conditions common to the breed that negatively impact animal health and welfare—for example, joint disease, bone deformities, and heart and eye conditions
  • Using breed registries, health and temperament screening, genetic tests, and other tools to select mating animals that support genetic diversity and lower the risk of passing along inherited disorders or an undesirable temperament
  • Limiting the number of litters per breeding female to allow for sufficient recovery between litters and support long-term health
  • Ensuring breeding animals are up to date on vaccines and parasite control
  • Providing nutrition that supports the animals’ needs at each life or reproductive stage
  • Providing prenatal and postnatal care for breeding females and their offspring
  • Supporting the behavioral and socialization needs of breeding animals, including exercise
  • Providing offspring with socialization opportunities and early training (such as litter box or crate training)
  • Monitoring the general health and wellbeing of all animals
  • Maintaining a clean, safe, and stress-free environment for mothers and their litters
  • Educating clients on their new pets’ needs, including these aspects:
  • Keeping appropriate records (including medical records) and documentation

Resources for breeders

Client brochure: Pet ownership
Canine Care Certified program for breeders
Canine Inherited Disorders Database
Body condition scoring (American Animal Hospital Association [AAHA])
Understanding pet food (Association of American Feed Control Officials)
Canine vaccination guidelines (AAHA)
Feline vaccination guidelines (AAHA)

Tools for veterinarians

Find tools to support your work with breeders.

Get veterinary resources