PRACTICAL DOG BREEDING. By Brian Plummer. 2008 Tideline Books paperback edition.

(2000) 2008 paperback edition. 8vo (147 x 206mm). Ppvi,190. B/w line illustrations.

"Brian Plummer has bred dogs virtually all [his] life and has experience most of the problems attendant with the birth of puppies. He readily admits that he has also made most of the mistakes dog breeders makes, though his scientific training has perhaps allowed him to check and dodge most of the unscientific hokum that sometimes clouds the minds of conventional dog breeders. This practical and comprehensive book is essential reading for anybody who intends to breed dogs, be it an occasional litter or as a full time occupational. It is full of telling and instructive anecdotes coupled with sound professional advice from one of the UK's top breeders. The book covers all aspects of breeding, from choosing, and maintaining breeding stock through to the birth and rearing of puppies and on to their sale. It also deals candidly with some of the less palatable aspects of dog breeding including vivisection, culling and the disposal of kennel waste." Chapters include: The reasons for breeding dogs; Points to consider before starting up; Making a start; Rearing and maintaining breeding stock; Exercise; Stud dogs; The act of mating; Pregnancy; Parturition or the process of whelping; Rearing puppies; Selling one's wares; Dealing with clients; Hand rearing a litter; An idiot's guide to genetics; Breeding for vivisection; Disposing of elderly stock; Kennel staff; Bedding and the disposal of kennel waste; The future of dog breeding. Appendices cover, the Breeding of Dogs Act 1973, Licence for Keeping a Breeding Establishment for Dogs, Tail docking.