Posted by agilebasenji on January 13, 2003 at 21:33:59:
In Reply to: Need useful breeding links posted by tera on January 13, 2003 at 14:12:59:
:Hi. I am wondering if anyone can tell me some chihuahua links about anything and everything. I am wanting to gather as much knowledge about the breed as I can. In the future I am thinking about breeding. But first I want to read everything about it and them first. Links such as about the breed, breeding, training, care, breeding standards, paperwork Id have to file and keep, etc. Also, can anyone tell me if there is anything about how to get a breeders license? All for my future reference. To help me decide if this is something I want to do or not. Thanks everyone for all the help!
I've never bred a liter, but I do know that there's an awful lot of work involved, especially with little dogs. The best way to start your search is with a visit to the AKC website (www.akc.org). From there you can look up breeders of chihuahua in your area. I'd give them a call and stress you want to know the right way to go about breeding. A good breeder will be able to direct you to numerous resources and tell you what to test for in your breeding stock (genetic and hereditary problems) and how to evaluate your dogs, etc. Breeding a dog is a life time commitment and not something to enter into lightly. It is also not a good way to "make a quick buck." Here's a link to some costs involved in breeding a liter of basenjis.
(http://www.geocities.com/rugosab/Prices.htm)
The health tests Vickie performed on her bitch are pretty standard, but may vary somewhat for a chi. Keep in mind that Chi's also usually have smaller liters and are probably more likely to have delivery complications than the basenjis. Also I don't see where the show entry fees are added in which is how most responsible breeders evaluate how close to the standard their dogs are. Entry fees for conformation shows are usually around $20/day not including travel/hotel expenses, time off work and handler fees (if you decide not to show the dog yourself). It may take just 4 shows to obtain a championship on your dogs, but that's not very realistic especially if you are doing it yourself.
You can also find upcoming shows at the akc website (or www.onofrio.com or www.infodog.com). I would also encourage you to go to the shows and meet people and their dogs there. See if you like it.
Good luck
