I want to breed my female pedigree mastif any advice (UK only)?

If she's older than 5, I don't think I'd breed her at all. First, have her hips and elbows x-rayed to be sure she isn't dysplastic. You don't want to pass on those diseases. Have your vet do an exam and fecal and blood tests for intestinal worms and heartworm to be sure her health is good. Then make sure your dog and the male you select (who should be a champion - your pups will be worth more!) are tested for Brucellosis - a canine VD.





If you breed her to a top quality male from an experienced breeder, they can help you with advice and may even show up to help you deliver the pups. They can also advise you as to whether or not your female is good enough to breed and that she has no major faults that she could pass on. Expect to pay at least the sale price of one pup for your stud fee.





If you just want a pup to keep for yourself, it's a lot easier (and cheaper) to buy one than to breed your own. The pups are going to need food and shots and worming and lots of care for eight weeks. Have you got the time and energy? One of my breeder friends once calculated that she made less than $1.85 per hour after expenses! I bred one litter myself, but now I'd rather go and buy the pup I want.I want to breed my female pedigree mastif any advice (UK only)?
You first port of call should be your dogs breeder who if reputable will give you advice on her suitablility for breeding and what lines to avoid. Very few dogs are suitable for breeding so you will also have to get her independently assess, either by entering her into shows or contacting the Mastiff Breed Club and letting various breeders go over her.





As you are probably already aware, Mastiffs require to be elbow scored prior to breeding - I would also get her hip-scored and eye-tested (after all you do not want to be sued by new owners if the pups develop an genetic condition). Once she has proved herself an outstanding example of the breed then the next thing you need to do is study her pedigree indepth, looking at all the dogs in her 5 generation pedigree to assess their health and genetic status as well as their faults and attributes in regards the breed standard. You will also have to do this for the stud dog that you choose. Have a look at this link it will help you understand what to look for in a reputable breeder: http://www.dogplay.com/GettingDog/breede鈥?/a>





Also remember that as the ***** owner you are morally responsible for any pups your ***** produces for the rest of their lives - that could mean taking back an adult dog in ten years when the owners no longer want it.I want to breed my female pedigree mastif any advice (UK only)?
go to another owner who has one
do a search on ';breeding dogs'; and get abook, there is a good one called The Essential Dog Book, it tells you alot about breeding dogs and whelping.


P.S. I am Scottish.
Mastiff





BACKGROUND





The Mastiff (often called English Mastiff) can truly claim an ancient heritage. Mastiff type dogs have existed since the human race began recording history, thousands of years ago. Mastiffs have been used for various purposes, but primarily as guardians of people and their property. Today they are bred as a superb companion and family dog.


MASTIFF/BULLMASTIFF CONFUSION





Over 100 years ago game keepers required a dog with the loyalty, strength and guarding capability of the Mastiff but greater speed and agility so the Bullmastiff was developed from the Mastiff. Today Bullmastiffs are a separate breed. Overall the Mastiff is larger, heavier and longer in body than the Bullmastiff.


AVERAGE LIFESPAN





When considering a dog, please realise that you are taking it on for its lifetime. Like many large breeds of dog, the Mastif has an average lifespan of 8-10 years.


AVERAGE SIZE %26amp; WEIGHT





The Mastiff is a giant breed of dog. One example of the breed is listed in the Guiness Book of Records as the heaviest dog in the world. Males are generally larger than females. A full grown adult Mastiff will generally weigh between 60 and 100 kgs and in height, their head will be at approximately the waist of an average person.


BREED PERSONALITY, CHARACTERISTICS %26amp; TEMPERAMENT





Mastiffs are loving, gentle and extremely loyal dogs. Provided they have been properly introduced, they are usually very good with children, but, as with any breed of dog, there should always be adult supervision.





Mastiffs are sensitive and crave approval and affection. They love nothing better than to be with their owners and for this reason are particularly suitable and rewarding as house dogs.





While not suitable as commercial guard dogs, Mastiffs will let you know when strangers are about. Their deep bark and massive appearance is usually enough to deter any unwelcome visitors.





Mastiffs love to please their owners but they are not a breed that will respond quickly or instantly obey without question.





COMPATIBILITY WITH OTHER PETS





By nature Mastiffs are usually very compatible with other pets, especially if they have been raised together.


CARE REQUIREMENTS





Mastiffs are a low maintenance breed. Their short coats require only a weekly brushing and a monthly bath. They do shed hair and many slobber a great deal. For exercise, most Mastiffs love to lie about watching you exercise. However, they do need and enjoy a daily half hour walk, regardless of how big or small their property is. They do not cope well with warm weather so walking should be done in the cool early morning or late evening.





Mastiffs need very large amounts of food while they are young and growing but less as they mature. A fully mature Mastiff may not eat much more than an adult German Shepherd Dog. Fresh cool water in a large chew and tip proof container must always be available.


PLEASE TAKE NOTE





Mastiffs are generally healthy dogs and responsible breeders take every care to ensure the long term health of the puppy you buy. However, as with most dogs, problems can occur. Large breeds grow rapidly and they can be affected by bone disorders. Mastiffs can suffer eye problems and some have a tendency to be susceptible to bloat. If you are considering a Mastiff, discuss the breed with as many breeders as possible and with your vet.





The general running costs of a Mastiff are much higher than smaller breeds. This is a big consideration e.g. a course of antibiotics for a small dog may be $25, for a Mastiff $100.


IN CONCLUSION





If you have decided that the Mastiff is the dog for you and you are happy to have a big, strong dog in your home then contact one of the groups listed below:


DECISION TIME








Before making a decision on getting a puppy, here are some articles you might find helpful:


What do we need to consider if we are thinking of buying a puppy?


How do I determine which breeder to use?


What should you ask the breeder?


How do you check if the breeder is reputable?


What to ask your vet prior to buying a puppy