Want to know Portuguese water dog Breeding Do’s and Don’ts? Find out how challenging and interesting breeding Portuguese Water dogs can be. Read our guide for more facts & information…
There are different reasons why Portuguese water dog owners decide to breed their dog. Some breeders aim to make money as a considerable amount can be made by breeding and selling puppies. Others would do it for the experience, while some would breed for fun or just because they feel like it. It is always best if owners examine their motivation prior to making this decision. More importantly however, the question is: Is the owner prepared to deal with the consequences and challenges of breeding? If the answer is yes, then by all means, the owner should proceed. If no, then it would be wise to take a step back.
Risky Business: What Every Breeder Should Know
If your main motivation for breeding is to earn extra bucks, think again. Would whatever money you make outweigh the costs of breeding and the time, effort, and sacrifice you’ve invested? The answer is: probably not. There are many costs and risks involved in the conception and post-natal stages of breeding. You will have to be ready to pay for veterinary bills, especially for a possible cs-section operation. You also need to worry about the dam’s needs during pregnancy, whelping, and after it gives birth. Then you have the possibility of the dam or litter getting infected and other potential complications that would make your veterinary bills shoot up. Once you have your puppies, it gets exciting but your responsibilities just don’t end.
Breeding Portuguese Water Dogs: A Commitment That Entails Responsibilities
Breeding Portuguese water dogs is more than just an activity. It is a commitment that entails responsibility that starts even prior to the pregnancy. As a responsible breeder, there are things that you should do to make sure everyone involved is well prepared for new members of your household. Familiarize yourself with local breeding rules and regulations for breeding, registering, and record keeping. Know more about your dog – conduct research, ask other experienced breeders, read books, surf the web, and make sure you consult a vet. Ask around for any diseases your dog, its mate, or their ancestors may have had in the past. During the pro-estrus and estrus stages, you should conduct close monitoring of the bitch’s activities. Utmost care should also be provided to the expectant dam during pregnancy, whelping, and even when the puppies are born. Your role then expands as you continue to be a nurse, a maid if necessary, and now a surrogate mom not only to your dog, but to the newborn pups as well.
