Doing some research, including (but not limited to) reading general canine breeding books and reading forum posts, on various aspects of breeding GSD, and I have some questions.

If there are any experienced breeders out there so graciously willing to take time and help me, I would greatly appreciate it!

Please PM.

Thank you

It would probably be best to actually post the questions you have or the topics you have questions on so those who actually breed GSDs would know if they can help you.

Good luck!

In general, I'm looking for recommended resources (be that internet or books, etc) that will enable me to make good litter rearing decisions. I want to learn how to fish, not just be given fishes.

More specific topics include how to integrate the varying opinions on things like timing/type of wormers, vaccines for litters, etc.

Thank you.

Costs involved with breeding are also something I have questions about.

Michelle, what are your goals in breeding and why do you feel your dogs are breeding quality (if this is regarding current dogs/bitches)?

I'm not trying to be negative and it's good you're researching but the start of any good breeding program regardless of breed is to have some goals that better the breed. And, of course, to have an excellent, breeding quality bitch not to mention a breed mentor in place.

I'm not a breeder but I do know that costs would include appropriate genetic testing, stud fees, pre- mating vet checks, probable vet check during pregancy to make sure the pups are developing properly, a vet visit after delivery to make sure all the afterbirth is out and that mom and pups are healthy, worming and first vaccinations (if you vaccinate), and an emergency fund in case the worst happens and the bitch must have an emergency c-section.

I'll be interested in hearing more precise estimates from our experienced breeders.

I don't mean to hijack your thread but I also would like to learn about breeding.

I don't plan on breeding any time soon since my dog is pet quality - I also don't plan on breeding until I'm done school (vet technician and animal care).

But I wont be going into that until NEXT September, so I'm just here to listen to anyone willing to teach on this thread. I have three years plus of time to learn, so I'm all ears.

Elaine and Carley, I have PM'ed you.

First thing to do is kind of get an idea of what kind of dog you want to breed. Easier then it sounds and know that whatever you start out with you will change and modify your "ideal" as you learn more.

Go to shows, go to trials, where ever you may find this kind of dog. Find the dogs you like and grill the owners about them. You will be surprised on how many of us have copies of pedigrees in the vehicle.

Ask the owners what traits they think come from where. Do not be surprised when even breeders with a few litters under their belt give you a blank look. <VBG>

Seek out breeders and grill them. If they are local ask if you can whelp a litter, observe a breeding.

When you go to kennels, boarding or breeding, look at everything, from fencing to clean up. Get ideas.

Start scouting craig list and garage sales for crates of all sizes now.

Scour web sites and look for a breeding program that mimics or is close to what you want. Email or call them. Most of us love talking about our goals, ect, and about our dogs.

Costs? That can vary so much depending on where you live........
I moved 150 miles to a more rural area and the first time I brought two dogs to the vet I think it was about 1/2 price of what I was use to paying for one.

But pretty much plan on paying for the college education of your vets children. The plus is that both my vets, I have their cell phone number for emergency's and they normally refer to a clinic for after hours.

Hope that helps a little bit.

This is a really interesting thread, I hope we can get some more posts in here.

I have a problem (not a breeding one) finding events in my area. There are only a few kennels around and I guess they travel for their stuff. But I'm going to go see a "training day" tomorrow at this one place I'm considering getting a pup from.

 Quote:

But I'm going to go see a "training day" tomorrow at this one place I'm considering getting a pup from

That's great! And don't forget the other sports when you are looking for events to go to and things like that.

About 8 years ago I showed up at a Flinks Seminar with an 8 month old working line pup that I had no idea what to do with. I met Will there, Debbie High from this board and a couple of other people that I have a lot of respect for.

And a couple with not so much respect. ROFL

I've also gone to decoy certs for sports that I don't know much about to get a feel for it and to meet decoys.

Never have enough decoys.