At what age can you start breeding a golden retriever?
We plan to breed our girl dog when she’s mature enough. When can we start?
After she starts winning shows regularly and is old enough to have cleared all genetic tests and certifications. Generally these tests can’t be finalized until 2 years of age or so.
Remember, if you aren’t breeding to improve the breed, the dog should not be bred. Anything else is against the guidelines of the AKC and the Golden Retriever Club of America.
Was this dog bought from a showing breeder who sold the dog as a ’show dog’? If not, then while the dog is probably an outstanding pet, she probably should not be bred. AKC registration and ‘champion lines’ are not reasons enough to be bred.
Start showing her. Join your breed club. Meet other reputable breeders. Have the genetic tests done. And if all that goes well, then start to consider breeding her. But, not a second before.
GRCA breeding tips: http://www.grca.org/acquiring.htm#breeding
AKC responsible breeding guidelines: http://www.akc.org/breeders/resp_breeding/index.cfm
Various other sources:
http://www.thepetcenter.com/gen/dbb.html
http://dogplay.com/Breeding/index.html
http://www.chihuahua-rescue.com/postit/spayneuter.htm
http://www.geocities.com/bluegracepwd/wheretobuy.html
Right now, you aren’t educated enough to be a breeder. Good and responsible breeders have been involved with their breed and know other responsible breeders. They already know how old 8itches and dogs should be before breeding. This is basic information. Yes, everyone has to start somewhere, but a good breeder starts withother breeders and by being involved in the breed. This isn’t saying that you can’t accomplish that, but it will take probably several more years to get to that level. If you aren’t willing to put that much time into it, or she’s not a show dog, then have her fixed at 6 months old.
Good luck to you. : )
Golden Retriever Darcy bringing Cheer
