1. Have litters to Make Money.

2. Duplicate: Requests for puppies/want another dog just like this one. No sir, no "unwanted puppies" here.

3. The experience. Simply LOVE puppies.

Now that we have your attention. Let's be sure you want to breed a litter of puppies and some facts that tag along with the responsibility. Your first responsibility is to have a waiting list in hand of buyers. No plan of action? Take a moment to think this through. Do you want to sell your pups below their value should you not have customers? Puppies not taken will end up where, the rescue shelters know.

#1. Make Money. What's that? You're just a backyard breeder looking for a few extra bucks on the side? Hmm. Do you understand the expenses involved? Proper facility, vet bills (and what if there are medical complications), food, advertising, etc.

a. Can you really handle Stud: Show Quality is what you're after, 'ey? Thinkin' the little guy has stud muffin potential? Offering improvement benefits to the greater good of the breed should only be the very best males. This includes the expected health as well as temperament, confirmation. Knowing that an owner of a female has a choice of top males, do you know what your boy has to offer? Proper evaluation by qualified, top competition show ring judges? Medical certified for hips, eyes and all tests clear? Are you certain about temperament?

b. Bestest Bitch: All virtuous, standard quality. No faults. Check again with unbiased, reputable breeders in the know. Double check on that health and temperament. Vet visit for x-rays, eyes, breed-related issues, needed shots or vitamins. Get ready for a stud fee when your little girl is in season, possibly a boarding fee, too. Know in advance any stud related details so there are no surprises. After your female has bred you'll want to vet visit, unexpected medical emergencies or not, to prevent infection. Puppies will also need a vet visit at 6 weeks old. You will want to price the pups according to their grading before their departure date.

c. What education can you provide your puppy takers? Answering any questions with helpful advice on housetraining, food. Demonstrate proper grooming techniques. Offer recommendation for obedience training, tips for housebreaking. Is a pedigree/registration form expected from you?

#2. Duplication of thee most perfect pet on the planet. From experience, no two are the exactly the same, sorry. Are you prepared for the list of excuses you may hear as to why dedicated puppy takers are backing out, leaving you stuck with how many "promised" puppies?

#3. Who doesn't LOVE puppies, I mean, really. Thing is, Responsibility and Mess come with the territory. Plan to spend dedicated time on some serious care taking. Mama stops cleaning after the little ones and you clean them off. Sanitary conditions are vital; you clean the whelping box area and anything that comes in contact with the pups. Feeding times are your responsibility. You will essentially be a fur kid parent similar to having a newborn human baby in the house. No long periods of time away unless you have an experienced puppy sitter you can depend upon. Ask yourself now, "Is it I who wants to breed puppies?" Rather than, after the fact, "Why did I breed these %@&# puppies??" because of the overwhelming task.

Leave breeding to the professionals. Spay or neuter your dog: Prevent unwanted puppies.

About the Author. Debbie Readinger is the writer, webmaster of ForDogOwners.com