The Complete Book of Dog Breeding. Dan Rice

       Chapter 1

      Overview

      The goal of this book is to provide practical, usable information. It explains, defines, describes, and offers guidelines. It is not an academic text, but a handbook—a how-to book. The information contained herein is gleaned from a lifetime of personal involvement with dogs and dog breeding. The most current veterinary literature on the subject was reviewed as this book was written. This volume, written in nontechnical language, covers all aspects of breeding and raising dogs.

      By definition, a breeder is “one who is engaged in the breeding or propagation of a specific organism.” This book is intended to inform and assist four different groups of people, described below, all of whom may be considered dog breeders or potential dog breeders.

      Note: Webster’s dictionary defines bitch as a female dog. It is so used throughout this book as generally accepted canine terminology. Don’t be offended by it. Also, graphic details of all aspects of canine reproduction are discussed, including the breeding act, male and female genitalia, parturition, cesarean sections, and other similar topics.

      • Experienced, established dog breeders will benefit from reading this book. It will update their knowledge and provide new ideas and concepts. Breeding soundness examinations are covered to remind you of proven, fundamental ideas and techniques that may have fallen into disuse. Professional dog breeders, kennel operators, dog handlers, and trainers will all benefit from the information contained herein. Those of you who produce and sell puppies should consider sending a copy of this book with each puppy raised and sold. It covers the benefits of spaying and neutering, puppy and adult diseases, and vaccinations.

      • Novice dog breeders will find a wealth of information about breeding animal selection and how and when to breed them. You will acquire important knowledge about canine estrous cycles, infertility problems, and natural and assisted breeding as well as normal whelping, dystocia emergencies and how to handle them, and the care of newborn puppies. A special section is devoted to raising orphan puppies. Sections of the book cover nutrition of the brood bitch before breeding, during breeding, while nursing, and when weaning puppies. Puppy nutrition and how to start them on solid food is also discussed. Other sections explain pre-breeding examinations, vaccinations, general health of breeding animals, health emergencies, and medical problems associated with dog breeding.