Breeding German Shepherds can be a rewarding yet challenging endeavor. If you’re passionate about this breed and considering breeding your German Shepherd, it’s crucial to be well-prepared. This guide provides essential tips and information for first-time breeders to ensure a successful and healthy breeding experience.
Understanding the Commitment
Before you even consider breeding, understand that it is time-consuming, labor-intensive, and potentially expensive. It requires months, if not years, of diligent planning. Be prepared for potential failed attempts and the emotional challenges that come with them.
Is Your German Shepherd Suitable for Breeding?
The first step is to determine if your German Shepherd is a good candidate for breeding.
Health: Ensure your Dam (female dog) is as healthy as possible. Feed her a quality diet, keep up with veterinary check-ups and vaccinations, and ensure she gets enough exercise.
Age: Bitches must be at least 20 months old at the time of their first breeding.
Temperament: The female animal should be strong, healthy, and of good nature.
Educate Yourself
Educate yourself on the specifics of German Shepherd breeding. This includes understanding:
- The age a Dam needs to be before breeding can start.
- Standards that must be met.
- Health concerns to address.
- How to choose the right male partner for breeding.
Finding the Right Partner
The quality of the parents and their ancestors is the prerequisite for successful breeding. Consider the advantages and disadvantages of potential breeding partners, the degree of kinship, type, line, coat type, and the quality of existing offspring. Consulting with experienced breeders is recommended.
Preparing for the Mating Process
When two dogs are brought together for breeding, the bitch generally travels to the stud. It’s important to note that during a breeding session, the dogs often “tie,” during which the male’s penis swells, making separation dangerous and potentially causing physical damage.
Understanding the Heat Cycle
Prada was in day 10 of her estrus or heat cycle when she was ready to mate. Understanding a bitch’s heat cycle is crucial for successful breeding.
Creating a Healthy Environment
Nutrition
A high-quality diet and daily exercise are crucial to ensure the Dam is in good condition for whelping.
Veterinary Care
Keep up with veterinary health checks and vaccinations to foster a healthy environment.
Essential Supplies
Ensure you have all necessary supplies before the litter is born:
- Veterinarian’s phone number
- Rounded tip scissors
- Stethoscope
- Gloves
- Bulb syringe
- Disinfectant
- Charts for recording details
- Thermometer
- Towels and blankets
- Hemostat
- Emergency supplies such as a vehicle with gasoline
Marketing Your Litter
Unless you already have a list of interested people, start advertising your litter early. Use social media, publications, or a website to get the word out.
Breeding Regulations
The OGOK breeding regulations serve to promote systematic breeding of the German Shepherd breed. These regulations are part of the statute and mandatory for all members of the association.
Minimum Age
Male animals must be two years of age at the time of use for breeding. Bitches must be 20 months old at the time of their first use for breeding purposes.
Breeding Frequency
The SV (German Shepherd Association) dictates the frequency of mating per stud in its breeding rules. Bitches may be covered up to 90 times, with a maximum of 60 times in Germany.
Quality
Ensure the puppies are of better quality than their parents. The quality principle is paramount.
Unforeseen Pregnancies
Report any unforeseen acts of covering that have taken place before the minimum age has been reached to the competent authorities.
Nursing
A nursing mother can be given to suckle another bitch’s cubs and can nurse at least six cubs, including her own.
Conclusion
Breeding German Shepherds requires commitment, preparation, and a focus on the health and quality of the breed. By following these guidelines, you can increase your chances of a successful breeding experience. Remember, being over-prepared is better than being under-prepared.