Perhaps due to their fierce loyalty to their masters dogs are referred to as man’s best friend. As dogs have been tamed around 15,000 years ago, it makes the dog an ideal pet. There are various dog breeds such as Terrier and Mastiff, and dog types. These two terms should not be used interchangeably as dog type means to classify the animals by the function it performs. Breeding dogs is the practice of allowing specially selected specimens to mate in order to preserve or create certain qualities or traits.

The characteristics of the offspring are left for nature to decide when dogs mate without human intervention. Thus, many domestic dog owners would be breeding dogs to obtain an improved new generation of dogs. However, breeding dogs is not an easy job. One needs to have a rather comprehensive knowledge about the genetics of the dog, health and its intended purpose in order to be successfully breeding dogs. In addition, dog breeders usually record the birth of puppies in stud books of associations such as kennel clubs, where the data regarding the dog including, the dog’s ancestry and special achievements are recorded. The American Kennel Club (AKC) is one such well known organization.

Properly maintaining data about dogs is vital for breeding dogs. Once an owner has information regarding the dog, he/she could study them and figure out what qualities could be expected and what should be avoided. The dog breeder may also have to determine whether to inbreed or to outcross. In addition, there are certain rules and regulations that have to be adhered to when breeding dogs. According to the breed, kennel club and country these regulations may vary. Normally, the rules are designed for the betterment of a specific breed or a few dog breeds and dog breeders have to follow the rules and regulations of an organization to be recruited in their breed programs. Different test might have to be done in addition to come to a decision regarding the health condition and qualities of the dog in question in accordance with these regulations and an evaluation by and expert breeder might also be necessary.

Although breeding dogs is a popular thing, there are certain groups who oppose and condemn the practice. Animal rights groups state that breeding dogs to be sold is immoral and claim that most breeders care only about the profit while totally disregarding the welfare of the animal. In addition inbreeding has also come under attack as this might cause the inherent genetic disorders of the dogs to continue into new generations.

Thus, breeding dogs could be considered a very delicate matter. A comprehensive knowledge is required by anyone who wishes to perform it.

Learn more about mastiff information. Stop by Regine Hehn’s site where you can find out all about mastiff training and what it can do for you.