The Pros and Cons of Dog Breeding
By Sandie Parrott

You’ve seen advertisements for high priced pure bred dogs and think cute little princess would make a wonderful mother. Wait, before you make this important decision, listen to what some experts say.

According to Dr. Kerry Zubke, DVM, “There are many more cons than pros, so many animals in shelters that need homes and too many that are euthanized every day.” The only reason Dr. Zubke says she would encourage dog breeding is if the breeder concentrates on one breed to make the breed better by eliminating genetic diseases, a definite pro.

“I see the products and problems associated with poor breeding,” stated Dr. Zubke. One of the major problems she sees often is hip dysplasia, a risk with good breeding, especially in larger dogs, but a larger risk with poor breeding or multiple breeds. Other risks include autoimmune diseases, uterine infections and cancer. According to Dr. Zubke, “It is much healthier for female and male dogs to be spayed and neutered, several types of cancer can develop and the risk increases with every heat cycle.”

According to Dr. Zubke, “Designer breeds, combinations of two or more breeds, pose a potentially greater risk with genetic issues because of the problems associated with all of the breeds involved.” Examples of designer or hybrid breeds include; Daisy Dogs (Bichon, Poodle and Shih-Tzu), Goldendoodle (Golden Retriever and Poodle), Shih-Poo (Shih-Tzu and Poodle) and Puggle (Pug and Beagle).

Linda Radamacher, a professional breeder of Golden Retrievers for twenty-five years said, “People just don’t realize how much work it is. The first six to eight weeks, your whole life rotates around them.”

Radamacher only breeds her dogs if dogs brought to her are tested and she feels the potential breeders understand everything involved. “I turn down 75% of those who come to me because they do not meet our requirements,” claims Radamacher. She insists that all shots be up to date and orthopedic (hips), cardiologist (heart) and ophthalmologist (eyes) certification and a Brucellosis Test for sexually transmitted diseases are completed. “I really don’t try to discourage people; I try to educate people instead.”

One pro is the money the puppies could bring, but Radamacher and Dr. Zubke agree if the breeder does everything needed to ensure a healthy, long-lived, comfortable and properly socialized puppy, they will be lucky to make money. If there are complications, such as needing a C-section (about $1,000), there could be a loss. Dogs not sold can also end up in shelters. The costs include pre-tests, stud fees, warm area free of drafts for caring and feeding the pups and mother dog, shots, worming and marketing costs. That doesn’t include complications or the dedicated time involved. Radamacher admits, “I couldn’t make a living just breeding puppies, even though I have a national reputation, my bread and butter is grooming and boarding.”

Jody Maddock, Board Treasurer and Dog Coordinator for Adopt-a-Pet (slogan: Adopt don’t Shop) in Fenton said, “Our rescue doesn’t support general public breeding, because we see too many animals that don’t have homes. People probably don’t know, but nationally 20% of euthanized dogs are pure breed.” Maddock continues, “We sometimes see complete litters of pure breed dogs or people that are moving and don’t want to take their dog.” Maddock claims the top two reasons given by potential breeders, “Provide one litter before the dog is spayed and allowing their children to experience a litter of puppies,” aren’t good reasons to bring puppies into this tough world.

So, if you’re thinking of breeding dogs, study up, call professional breeders, tally costs and best, leave the breeding to professional breeders and enjoy puppies that are true to their breed, comfy, adjusted, healthy and ready to live a long, happy life.
Finally, check www.petfinder.com for thousands of pets available for adoption or watch the TV series Saturdays on the Animal Planet.