The main pros of a retired breeding dog are that you get a calmer adult dog, often of a known breed, size and health history, and you give a dog a home after its breeding career. The main cons are that some have health problems from repeated litters, may not be house-trained or used to home life, and – especially if they come from a puppy mill – can be shy or fearful and need patient training.
Regardless of the breed or size of the dog, adopting a canine is not a simple decision. It’s also a commitment to that dog, so it’s critical to be sure you’re prepared for it.
This complete guide will give you the knowledge that’s needed in order to make an informed decision about whether or not retired breeding dogs are right for your family.
Pros of a retired breeding dog
Though adopting a retired breeding dog might make some nervous, there are actually plenty of pros that come along.
First, let’s dispel the biggest myth about retired breeding dogs – that they can’t make great pets. Just because a dog has been used for breeding purposes doesn’t mean that they can’t be a wonderful companion. In fact, many people who adopt retired breeding dogs find that they make some of the best pets, as they are adults with settled personalities and a lot of love to give.
Here are some of the amazing benefits that adopting a retired breeding dog can offer.
1Save a Dog From Euthanization
Adopting a retired breeding dog can give that dog a far better life. Responsible breeders rehome their retired dogs carefully, but dogs from large commercial breeding operations may be surrendered to shelters, sold on or, sadly, sometimes euthanized when they’re no longer profitable.
When you adopt a retired breeding dog, you’re giving that dog a second chance at life. A chance to be loved and to have a family of their own. This is an amazing gift that you can give to a dog in need.
2Support Rescue Organizations
When you adopt a retired breeding dog, you’re also supporting rescue organizations. These are the organizations that work to save dogs from poor conditions and to find them loving homes.
Many of these organizations are run by volunteers who dedicate their time and resources to saving as many dogs as possible. By adopting a retired breeding dog, you’re helping these organizations to continue their important work.
3Control Over the Size, Breed, Health History
When you adopt a retired breeding dog, especially from a reputable breeder, you’ll often get a dog with a known history: its breed, adult size, health test results and how it behaves with people and other dogs. This is in contrast to adopting some shelter dogs where you might not know much about the dog’s background.
This can be extremely helpful, especially if you have small children or other pets in the home, because you have a much better idea of what to expect in terms of temperament and behavior. If you already have a dog, read how much harder it is to have 2 dogs.
4Low Energy and Good Temperament
Another great thing about retired breeding dogs is that they are usually past the puppy stage, so they tend to be calmer. This is in contrast to puppies which can be quite high energy and need constant supervision.
If you’re looking for a calmer dog, a retired breeding dog might be a great choice. Keep in mind that energy levels still depend on the breed: a retired Border Collie will need far more exercise than a retired Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.
Dogs from good breeders also tend to have good temperaments, as temperament is often one of the things breeders select for and the dogs have usually had plenty of human interaction. That isn’t true of every retired breeding dog, though, as the cons below explain.
Cons of a breeding dog
There are also some potential cons to adopting a retired breeding dog. How much they matter depends a lot on where the dog comes from, so it’s important to be aware of them.
1Potential Health Issues
One potential con is that retired breeding dogs might have some health issues. Repeated litters take a toll on a female’s body, and dogs from poorly run operations may have dental disease, skin or eye problems, or untreated injuries. Dogs that weren’t spayed or neutered until later in life can also have a higher risk of some conditions, such as mammary tumors in females.
Fortunately, many of these health issues can be managed with proper veterinary care. Book a full vet check soon after you bring your dog home.
2Potential Behavioral Issues
Another potential con is that retired breeding dogs might have some behavioral issues. This is because they might not have been treated well by their previous owners or because they weren’t given much attention or socialization. If your new dog seems withdrawn at first, see I just adopted a dog and she seems sad.
With time, patience and the help of a qualified positive-reinforcement trainer, most dogs become much more confident, although very fearful dogs may take months to fully settle.
3House Training and Everyday Life
Many retired breeding dogs have lived in kennels rather than homes. They may not be house-trained, may never have walked on a leash, climbed stairs or heard a vacuum cleaner, and can be startled by everyday household life. Plan on treating them a bit like a puppy at first: regular potty breaks, lots of praise, and a quiet space where they can retreat.
Where the Dog Comes From Matters
The biggest difference is the dog’s background. A dog retiring from a small, reputable breeder has usually lived in a home, been health tested and handled every day. A dog rescued from a large commercial breeding operation or puppy mill is far more likely to be fearful, under-socialized and in need of medical care. Ask the breeder or rescue about the dog’s living conditions, number of litters, health records and whether they are spayed or neutered.
Common Questions About Retired Breeding Dogs
Q: How can I find a retired breeding dog to adopt?
A: The best way to find a retired breeding dog is to contact a local animal shelter or rescue organization. They might have retired breeding dogs available for adoption. You can also search online for “retired breeding dogs for adoption” to find listings from organizations across the country.
Q: How much does it cost to adopt a retired breeding dog?
A: The cost of adopting a retired breeding dog varies depending on the organization you adopt from. But in general, it’s usually cheaper to adopt a retired breeding dog than it is to purchase one from a breeder.
Let’s Recap!
All in all, there are many great reasons to consider adopting a retired breeding dog. These dogs make wonderful companions and can provide you with years of love and happiness. So if you’re looking for a new furry friend, be sure to consider adopting a retired breeding dog. For a broader picture, see how having a dog changes your life.
