Responsible Breeding of the Australian Cattle Dog

So you have a really, really, really nice ACD male and you want to breed him for one reason or another. After perusing the reasons to and not to breed listed here at cattledog.com you are convinced that he has something to pass on to future generations.

In dogs, the bitch owner generally seeks out the dog that he/she wants to use for breeding. You need to take the time and make the effort to get your dog out there in the eye of those looking for a stud dog in a way that will best show him off to the stud-seeking ACD owners of the world.

Some ways to get your dog out in the eye of like-minded breeders include:

Entering your dog in conformation shows in your area.
Entering your dog at the ACDCA National Specialty (or your country's national show).
Entering your dog in herding, obedience or agility trials in your area.
Advertising your dog in the ACD Quarterly (don't forget to publicize health testing information!.
Joining a Regional Club devoted to the Australian Cattle Dog.

You can also, of course, purchase a bitch to compliment your dog. Keep in mind that this is a long-term solution since a bitch shouldn't be bred until she is over the age of two. Make sure you consult with your breeder about what lines are compatible with your boy's pedigree. If you don't have a support system in your dogs breeder, make sure you are TOTALLY honest with the breeder's you approach to purchase a bitch from in regards to your dogs strengths (both physically and mentally) and weaknesses.

If you are approached by another breeder who asks to use your dog at at stud MAKE SURE that you are willing to be responsible for each and every one of the pups produced in that litter. Sure the bitch owner is responsible for whelping the litter and placing the pups, but if something should happen to that resource, puppy owners have every right to look to you for guidance and assistance. You are making a conscious choice to be part of this litter and should also take on the responsibility of the impending pups.

Some breeding agreements are formal and use contracts, others are agreed upon over a handshake and a cup of coffee. Regardless of the arrangements made for breeding the bitch, keep your boy safe and healthy by insisting that the bitch have at least a brucellosis test before breeding (some also require a vaginal culture). You should, of course, also take your boy to have a brucellosis test drawn before breeding (regardless of whether he has ever been bred before or not!)

Last Updated
13-November-2004

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