Breeding Dogs
Perhaps due to their fierce loyalty to their masters dogs are referred to as man’s best friend. As dogs have been domesticated around 15,000 years ago, it makes the dog an ideal pet. There are numerous breeds of dogs such the Terrier and the Mastiff for example in addition to dog types. These two terms should not be used interchangeably as dog type means to categorize the animals by the function it performs. Allowing specifically chosen types of dogs to mate in order to get puppies with particular qualities is referred to as the practice of breeding dogs.
The qualities of the puppies are left for nature to decide when dogs reproduce without human involvement. Thus, many domestic dog owners would be breeding dogs to obtain an improved new generation of dogs. However, breeding dogs is a quite tough task. It’s vital that you have a good idea of the intended purpose, genetics and the health condition of the dog in question so that breeding dogs could be done in a fruitful manner. In addition, dog breeders usually register the birth of puppies in stud books of associations like kennel clubs, where the information about the dog as well as, the dog’s ancestry and special achievements are entered. The American Kennel Club (AKC) is such one famous organization.
It’s crucial when it comes to breeding dogs that correct records are kept about dogs. Once an owner has information regarding the dog, he/she could analyze them and determine what qualities can be anticipated and what should be avoided. The decision regarding whether to inbreed or to outcross is one that should be taken by the dog breeder. In addition, there are certain set of laws that have to be adhered to when breeding dogs. According to the breed, kennel club and country these regulations may vary. Usually, the rules are made for the well being of a certain breed or a few dog breeds and dog breeders have to follow the rules and regulations of an association to be enlisted in their breed programs. In addition, these rules may include various tests to determine the health and working qualities of the dog, and would also include an evaluation by an expert breeder.
Although breeding dogs is a very famous thing, there are specific groups who resist and condemn the practice. Animal rights groups state that breeding dogs to be sold is immoral and claim that most breeders care only about the profit while totally disregarding the welfare of the animal. In addition inbreeding has also been criticized as this might cause the inherent genetic disorders of the dogs to continue into new generations.
Thus, breeding dogs can be thought of as a very delicate matter. A comprehensive knowledge is required by anyone who wishes to perform it.
