Breeding Boxers
A Few Tips on Breeding Boxers
Breeding boxers, or any pedigreed dog for that matter, is quite a process, and not one to be taken lightly. It will require patience, knowledge, time and money to perform the job efficiently and properly.
There are many reasons that people think they would like to become involved with breeding boxers or other dogs. Quite often, the main motivation is the money they think they will be making by reproducing a popular breed of dog. For others, it is truly just the love of the dog that motivates them to begin the business.
For the people who believe the money can be made breeding boxers, they have most likely not done their homework to research all that is required in the process. The first step, obviously, is to have a properly papered female; a dog that is free of any disease, disorders or defects. She will need to be up to date on all of her shots. Her ancestry line must be clear and recognizable, with as much background as possible.
Before any medical testing begins, a stud male must be found. If you own the pair of breeding boxers, the male will need to have a myriad of health tests that will add up to a sizeable investment. If you do not own the male, you will need to ensure that he has a clean bill of health by visually seeing the reports. Oh, yes; and the stud fee, which can vary depending on the bloodline of the dog.
Next, a trip to the veterinarian will be in order. The female should be tested for heart defects; an issue with many boxers. This will include aortic stenosis testing. Not only the testings but the technicians performing each of the tests at separate intervals will incur charges. Hips and spine disorders are also issues, although not common, for boxers; these tests will require x-rays. There may be other tests as the veterinarian suggests based on the female breeding boxer’s health history.
Once bred, special feeding considerations will be needed for the pregnant female. There may also be medical costs once whelping commences; especially if a C-section is needed. When all costs are considered, you will likely just be calling it even. Oh, and you need to sell the pups to recoup costs.
Breeding boxers for the simple love of the dogs is different, although the costs are the same. The devotion to breeding quality dogs outweighs the costs involved. The determination to maintain good bloodlines is the motivator, along with supplying superb pups to people who will love and care for them.
Anyone thinking about breeding boxers needs to consider the motivation and the costs of undertaking such an endeavor.