Responsible dog breeding requires a commitment to do what is right, not what is most economically rewarding. At Spiegel Bird Dogs, our breeding philosophy extends beyond basic breeding practices, including a strong ethical commitment. This includes choosing dams and studs wisely, testing for brucellosis, comprehensive reproductive exams, vaginal cytology, and multiple progesterone tests. These steps ensure that we breed for desirable traits and the health and vitality of each litter.
Genetic Health and Certification
Spiegel Bird Dogs prioritizes genetic health and certification to ensure our Brittanys are top-notch bird dogs with robust skeletal structures. Piper and her chosen mate, Lucky, come from pedigrees boasting multiple champions in field trials and conformation shows (8 National Field Trial Champions, 5 Dual Champions, 5 Field Champions, and 2 Show Confirmation Champions). Hip certifications from reputable organizations like the OFA and PennHIP confirm that Piper and Lucky have excellent skeletal health, vital for mobility and overall well-being (Piper's hips are OFA-GOOD; Lucky PennHIP is LOW RISK with a DI = 0.28). This pairing has the genetic makeup of outstanding bird dogs with excellent skeletal structures.
The Importance of Comprehensive Reproductive Exams
A comprehensive reproductive examination is crucial for assessing the overall reproductive health of a bitch. This exam helps identify potential hereditary issues, physical abnormalities, or health concerns that could affect breeding success or the well-being of future puppies. Diseases like brucellosis, which can lead to infertility and abortions, are screened during these examinations. Similarly, vaginal cytology involves the vet analyzing a smear of vaginal cells under a microscope. A culture is used to detect infections or abnormalities, ensuring the bitch is in optimal health before breeding.
Progesterone Level Tests
Countless dogs are bred with only an estimated whelping date, typically derived from the start of the bitch's heat cycle or the last mating date. However, these methods are imprecise. The most reliable indicator of a due date is knowing when the bitch ovulated since the gestation period for all canines, irrespective of breed, is 63 days (+/- 1 day) from ovulation. The only reliable way to accurately predict the whelping date is by tracking the female's ovulation through progesterone testing.
Last year, Piper ovulated on the seventh day of her heat cycle. This year, she ovulated on the 11th day. However, any estimation would be purely speculative without the definitive results provided by progesterone testing—where the vet identifies ovulation by a progesterone level of 5 ng/ml. This testing involves multiple blood draws and pinpoints ovulation accurately, which is crucial, especially if a cesarean section (C-section) becomes necessary. The precision of this timing for a C-section can mean the difference between healthy puppies and those at risk.
Economic Considerations in Breeding
While these extensive health checks come with significant costs, they're essential for responsible breeding. Many breeders may forgo these expenses, focusing instead on maximizing litter sizes without a corresponding investment in genetic quality or health. However, at Spiegel Bird Dogs, we see our expenditures as investments in the future of our dogs and the breed as a whole.
Our commitment at Spiegel Bird Dogs goes beyond producing puppies—it's about fostering the health, standards, and future of the Brittany breed. By integrating genetics, comprehensive health assessments, and meticulous breeding plans, we ensure each litter is a testament to our dedication and ethical responsibility. Our approach sets us apart and underscores our commitment to the breed and the families who will welcome our puppies into their homes.
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