Breeding Better Dogs: Canine Breeding Management delves into the biology of managing reproduction in dogs, from mating to whelping and the first few weeks of life. It also delves into the genetic management of dog breeds and selection procedures to aid breeders in producing sound, useful dogs. The book includes: – details of managing the genetic structure of breeds and genetic management of individual breeding programs – details of managing dogs that are used for breeding – details of mating dogs, managing pregnancies and whelping This book is an excellent resource for dog breeders. Providing an accessible approach to a complex subject, Breeding Better Dogs breaks down into digestible chunks the essential information for understanding the subject at a broad level.
Table of Contents
1. Breeding Dogs
1.1 The Significance of Dog Breeds
1.2 Advantages of Dog Breeding
1.3 Key Considerations
2. Genetic Tools for Breeders
2.1 Fundamentals of Genetics
2.2 Transmission of Genes Across Generations
2.3 Understanding Single Gene Inheritance
2.4 Complex Inheritance Patterns
2.5 Insights into Epigenetics
2.6 Selective Breeding Strategies
2.7 Essential Insights
3. Dog Evaluation
3.1 Assessing Pedigrees
3.2 Phenotypic Evaluation and Structure
3.3 Role of DNA Testing
3.4 Making Selections
3.5 Considerations in Reproduction
3.6 Important Points
4. Managing Genetic Traits
4.1 Impact of Selection and Genetic Drift
4.2 Approaches to Genetic Management
4.3 Handling Single Gene Traits
4.4 Management of Polygenic Traits
4.5 Strategies for General Gene Management
4.6 Key Insights
5. Maintaining a Breed or Bloodline
5.1 Understanding Genetic Bottlenecks
5.2 Monitoring Population Size
5.3 Mitigating Inbreeding Effects
5.4 Strategies for Monitoring and Managing Inbreeding
5.5 Balancing Genetic Contributions
5.6 Strategies for Breed Preservation
5.7 Addressing the Trend of Designer Dogs
5.8 Key Aspects
6. General Health Management
6.1 Routine Care Guidelines
6.2 Vaccination and Preventative Measures
6.3 Dietary Recommendations
6.4 Importance of Exercise and Socialization
6.5 Ensuring Biosecurity Measures
6.6 Essential Points
7. Management of the Male
7.1 Nutritional and Health Considerations
7.2 Prostate Health and Fitness
7.3 Evaluating Breeding Soundness
7.4 Semen Processing and Preservation
7.5 Key Insights
8. Management of the Female
8.1 Dietary and Health Guidelines
8.2 Understanding Estrus and Reproductive Phases
8.3 Addressing Medical Conditions in Females
8.4 Assessing Breeding Fitness
8.5 Pregnancy Frequency and Management
8.6 Key Considerations
9. Management of Mating
9.1 Timing and Methods of Mating
9.2 Various Mating Techniques
9.3 Dual-Sire Considerations
9.4 Essential Insights
10. Management of Pregnancy
10.1 Nutritional and Health Considerations
10.2 Monitoring and Diagnosis of Pregnancy
10.3 Addressing Parasitic Concerns
10.4 Managing Pregnancy Disorders
10.5 Key Considerations
11. Whelping
11.1 Gestational Management
11.2 Choosing Birth Methods
11.3 Preparing for Whelping
11.4 Veterinary Involvement and Precautions
11.5 Key Events During Whelping
11.6 Post-Whelping Considerations
11.7 Addressing Puppy Rejection
11.8 Important Insights
12. Management Post-Whelping
12.1 Care for the Dam
12.2 Addressing Post-Partum Issues
12.3 Neonatal Care and Development
12.4 Supplemental Support and Stimulation
12.5 Key Guidelines
