Dog Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook.pdf - Mr. Walnuts

will be familiar with the bloodlines that lie behind your bitch. If you have an
outstanding bitch, you should seriously consider using a stud from that same
bloodline to reinforce her best qualities.
The show record of a prospective stud dog may include a Championship,
multiple breed wins, Group placements, or even Bests in Show. Unfortunately,
not all great show dogs are outstanding producers. A show record beyond a
Championship is not as important as the record of the dog’s offspring. If the
dog has sired outstanding puppies, particularly out of several bitches, you have
evidence that he is a good producer. Much of the credit, however, may belong
to the breeder for using the dog wisely and with bitches who complement his
attributes.
It is the responsibility of the breeder (that is, the owner of the bitch) to
come to a clear understanding with the owner of the stud dog concerning the
breeding terms. Usually a stud fee is paid at the time of the mating, or the
stud’s owner may agree to take a puppy of his or her own choosing. If the bitch
does not conceive, the stud’s owner may offer a return service at no extra
charge. However, this is not obligatory. Terms vary with the circumstances
and policies of the kennel. If the terms are in writing, there will be no misunderstandings
later.
THE STUD DOG
The age at which a male dog reaches sexual maturity and begins to produce
sperm varies from 6 to 12 months, the average being about 9 months.
Physiologically, a male could be used at stud at about 1 year of age. Most male
dogs, however, do not achieve physical maturity before 18 to 24 months of
age, and should not be used before that time. This is because their full breeding
potential does not become apparent until they reach physical maturity.
Also, many health certifications, such as OFA clearance for hip dysplasia,
require the dog to be at least 2 years of age.
A stud dog should be kept at an ideal weight with regular exercise and a
sound diet. Exercise maintains physical condition, endurance, and muscle
tone. Regular health checkups are important. Vaccinations must be kept current,
as the stud will have close contact with a number of bitches (see
Vaccination Schedule, page 98).
The Prebreeding Examination
SEX AND REPRODUCTION • 435
Before a male is used at stud he should undergo a complete physical examination
with laboratory tests similar to those described for the brood bitch.
Parasites, if present, should be treated. Heartworm preventives are important
in areas where the disease is known to occur. Screening tests for von
Willebrand’s disease and hypothyroidism may be necessary for certain breeds.