Breeding Dogs
Perhaps due to their fierce loyalty to their masters dogs are referred to as man’s best friend. As dogs have been tamed 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 classify the animals by the role 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 characteristics of the offspring 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. In any case, breeding dogs is not an easy job. 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 data regarding the dog including, the dog’s ancestry and special achievements are recorded. The American Kennel Club (AKC) is one such well known organization.
It’s crucial when it comes to breeding dogs that correct records are kept about dogs. Once an owner has informationconcerning the dog, he/she could analyze them and decide what traits could be expected and what should be avoided. The dog breeder may also have to determine whether to inbreed or to outcross. In addition, there are certain set of laws that have to be adhered to when breeding dogs. These rules may differ depending on the breed, kennel club and country. Usually, the rules are designed for the well being of a specific breed or a few dog breeds and dog breeders have to stick to the laws of an association to be recruited in their breed programs. Different test might have to be done in addition to come to a decision regarding the health condition and qualities of the dog in question in accordance with these regulations and an evaluation by and expert breeder might also be necessary.
Although breeding dogs is a popular thing, there are certain groups who oppose and condemn the practice. Animal rights groups charge that most breeders are merely concerned about the profit and state that such individuals have no regard of the wellbeing of the animal and thus breeding dogs for purpose of selling is unethical. In addition inbreeding has also been criticized as this may cause the inherent genetic disorders of the dogs to continue into new generations.
Thus, breeding dogs can be considered a very delicate matter. A comprehensive knowledge is required by anyone who wishes to perform it.
