Agree the terms up front
- The stud fee, or whether payment is a puppy from the litter
- What happens if the bitch does not conceive (a free repeat mating is common)
- Who pays for progesterone testing, travel and any veterinary costs
- Kennel Club registration details and who registers the litter
- Both owners' responsibilities if a puppy needs to come back later
Budget honestly
Costs mount quickly: health testing, the stud fee, pregnancy scans, extra food, whelping equipment, vet visits, microchipping, first vaccinations and worming. Emergency caesarean sections can run into four figures. Plan for the worst case before you breed, not after.
Duty of care to the puppies
- Puppies stay with their mother until at least eight weeks old
- Microchip and register every puppy to you before it leaves
- Socialise puppies properly during their critical early weeks
- Screen new owners, and take a puppy back at any point in its life if needed
Be ready to say no
If your bitch is too young, in poor condition, has a difficult temperament or has had a hard previous litter, the right decision may be not to breed at all. Speak to your vet, who knows your dog and can give you an honest view.
Key takeaways
- Put the stud arrangement in writing before the mating
- Budget for emergencies, including a possible caesarean
- A responsible breeder will take a puppy back at any stage of its life
This guide is general information for UK dog owners and is not legal or veterinary advice. Always check with your local council and your own vet.