The BIG Question:
Should I Breed My Dog?
 Yes,
if: Your dog is healthy and certified (OFA, CERF) to be
free of genetic disease and came from parents and grandparents who were
certified.
Your dog fits the standard (a word picture describing
the perfect Bichon) well enough to be awarded points at a dog show under
respected judges
Your dog has a stable temperament, meaning not shy as
well as not aggressive
Your dog has at least four titled dogs (conformation.
obedience, tracking, agility, etc.) in the last three generations
You have a minimum of a five-generation pedigree on
your dog and are aware of any health problems in those five generations
You are prepared to meet the costs of veterinary care
for the mother prior to and after birth and to care for the puppies,
including veterinary care, for at least 10 weeks (or longer if you cannot
find suitable homes for them). This includes preliminary house training and
the first two sets of shots, early grooming and coat care and early teething
No, if: You do not have room for pups and
mother to be in a quiet indoor place during and after birth
You do not have finances to prepare
for emergency care that may arise prior to or during birth or with the
puppies in the critical weeks after they are born
You have no information on the
health of previous generations. This applies to the father of the puppies as
well as the mother
Especially not if you are doing this
to teach children about birth. Birth is bloody, messy and may include dead
or dying puppies if you do not know how to assist the mother in whelping her
puppies and you must be present during whelping!
You should be aware that most
breeders who provide the proper care find they often lose money instead of
making money. If they are lucky, they may break even. If they are unlucky,
they may not only lose money but may also lose a beloved pet when they find
too late that she was not a good breeding prospect
Breeding should be done to
improve the breed and this can only be done by being completely
knowledgeable about the breed and about your particular pet. Be sure that
your motives are the right ones. We encourage neutering and spaying for the
health of your pet and for the breed. Did you know that neutered animals
live longer and are more likely to be free of cancer and other
life-threatening
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