Brood Volunteer Frequently Asked Questions

Brood volunteer FAQs

Deciding to become a Dog Breeding volunteer for Canine Partners is not a decision to be made lightly as it takes time, effort, and commitment to ensure both the brood and puppies (when the brood has a litter) can be given the care and attention they require.

Below are some of the most frequently asked questions we receive from those wishing to become a Dog Breeding Volunteer, or those that are unsure if the opportunity is quite right for their lifestyle.

If you have any other questions, please contact volunteer@caninepartners.org.uk.

How old will be the Brood be when she comes to live with us?

The brood will be around 16 – 18 months old.

Which breeds of dogs do you use on your breeding programme?

We generally use Labradors, Golden Retrievers, and crosses of these two breeds.

Can I take the Brood to work with me if I work?

This can be possible, but will depend on the environment you work in. The brood will need to stay at home when she is in season and when she has her litter to care for her and her puppies (this would be from the final week of pregnancy until the puppies have left home)

Can we have a Brood if we have young children?

As with all our Brood volunteers, you will need to go through an application process which will include a home visit to assess the suitability. However, many people that have young families take on a Brood with no problems.

Am I able to have other dogs at home?

Broods can live happily with other dogs, although this will be assessed on a case-by-case basis. We would not place a Brood with an entire male dog.

Can I have a Brood if I have never kept a dog before?

Yes – our breeding team will provide you with all the advice and guidance you need

Where are the puppies born?

Puppies will be born in your home. You will need to have a suitable space within the home for the birth and puppy rearing. We will provide you with the requirements so that we can ensure there is sufficient space.

How many puppies will there be in a litter?

This can depend. On average, a bitch will birth 6-7 puppies, but it can be up to 10-12.

How long is a ‘season’?

Seasons usually last for around 21 days.

 

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If your question remains unanswered, please fill in the form and a member of our breeding team will be in touch.

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