Companion Dog Project Breeding Strategy

 

*Note: CDR Registration is not required for members.  CDR registration requires submission of proof of health testing and temperament data specific to the individual dog and approval of individual pairings based on compatibility and predicted average or actual genetic COI of puppies of `10% or less.    

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• ​The goal of pairings is to produce puppies with highly social, resilient, low aggression temperament suitable for life as a family pet; lack of any disease significant impacting quality of life; and sound structure that allows ease of movement and normal exercise tolerance

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• Breeding goals which include an aesthetic component are acceptable if temperament and health are consistently prioritized above appearance in breeding choices 

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• Breeding choices will be consistent with the Functional Dog Collaborative guiding statements 

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• Appearance: Any color, size, coat type or appearance is acceptable

  • Color: High amounts of white on the head, dilute or merle coloring require special consideration in choosing pairings to avoid any associated health risks

  • Size: Extremes of conformation including extremes in size are to be avoided

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• Health Testing: Appropriate health testing will be completed on all breeding dogs prior to breeding. Testing requirements are unique to dog type and family history but generally include a baseline of radiographs, DNA testing and cardiac exams. Additional items are often needed. CDR registration requires proof of appropriate testing and each application is evaluated individually

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• Carrier status of recessive mutations should not be used to exclude dogs from breeding unless all other factors are equal. . Pairings will not be made between two dogs carrying the same deleterious recessive mutation

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• Temperament should be the highest and most important consideration when choosing breeding candidates and matching pairs, followed by health, then structure and appearance

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• Sociability with humans and dogs is the most important aspect of temperament to be considered

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• Overall resilience should be emphasized

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• Selection for individual desired traits, regardless of breed or a breed standard, and the frequent introduction of new stock, will be emphasized

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• Predicted genetic COI of puppies will be < or = to 10 % 

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• The use of the oldest possible appropriate healthy stud is encouraged

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• Natural mating is encouraged for at least the first breeding of each dog, to establish its ability to do so. Inability to mate naturally should be considered a negative trait and breeding away from this concern is expected 

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• Successful unassisted natural whelping and mothering of puppies is a breeding goal. Inability to do so should be considered when making breeding decisions, and breeding away from this concern is expected 

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• Fertility should be considered and unexplained small litter sizes should be bred away from 

 

Breeding:  

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• Both Sire and Dam should be at least 18 months of age. Dogs with unknown parentage or from unknown lines should ideally be fully socially mature (2.5-3 years old) to establish adult temperament prior to breeding. 

 

• Females will be bred no sooner than second heat, third is preferred in most cases. Skipping heats is optional and should be based on veterinarian recommendation, breeding goals, and the condition of the dog. No female may be bred more than 4  times or after age 8 without prior examination and approval of a licensed veterinarian 

 

• Dogs should be in overall good health at the time of breeding with normal appetite and having no sign of illness, in healthy body condition, with good mobility of all joints, at a healthy weight, parasite free and up up to date on vaccines as recommended by a licensed veterinarian