Dog and Cat Breeders Key Terms

Learning the proper terminology is a must for dog and cat breeders
By Harrison Howe If you're thinking about becoming a dog or cat breeder, you might start by becoming familiar with some dog and cat breeders key terms. From understanding the heat cycle, to knowing breed standards, or learning the difference between a hybrid or pedigree, and show versus pet quality, you'll find there are many key terms you'll use quite often if you choose to enter the field of dog and cat breeding.

Estrus, or heat

Female dogs and cats both go into an estrus, or heat cycle, a time when they are fertile and ready to reproduce. Both physical and behavioral changes become apparent in both dogs and cats when this begins. As a dog or cat breeder, you should familiarize yourself with what the heat cycle is and the telltale signs in both types of animals.
Try:  HDW Enterprises describes feline estrus cycles and also the signs of heat displayed by female cats. Find a description of a dog's heat cycle, with physical changes to watch for and how to start the breeding process at ThePetCenter.com.

Pure or mixed breed

Both dogs and cats can be either purebred or of mixed breed. Purebred dogs and cats have ancestors that were of the same breed, while mixed breed, as the name implies, are offspring of different breeds. Pedigree often refers to purebred dogs, while bloodline means cats that come from the same breed.
Try:  The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) offers a detailed explanation of purebred and mixed-breed dogs and cats.

Breed standard

Breed standards for dogs and cats refer to guidelines that establish the general appearance and temperament of specific breeds. These descriptions are set by recognized breed clubs. Dog and cat breeders are expected to maintain the breed standard of the dogs and cats they are breeding.
Try:  DogDunDee details the breed standard of several types of dogs as set by the American Kennel Club to give a full understanding of what is meant by the term "breed standard." The CFA Manx Breed Council provides information about the breed standard of a certain breed of cat to illustrate what is meant by feline breed standard.

Show versus pet quality

Generally, dog breeders can breed two types of dogs, show or pet quality. Show dogs are bred to maintain the physical and temperamental breed standard. Pet quality dogs usually have a physical trait that does not allow them to meet breed standards.
Try:  Abounding Poodles gives a description of both show and pet quality dogs, while Hidden Paw Cat Club does the same for cats.

Weaning

Both dogs and cats must be weaned from their mothers before they can be sold. This means they must be gradually removed from receiving their mother's milk and begin to be fed solid food.
Try:  Find a thorough explanation about how to wean a kitten at Professor's House. The American Kennel Club gives a brief description of how to wean puppies.

Backyard breeder

If you wish to become a successful and respected dog or cat breeder, you won't want to fit the definition of a backyard breeder. This term refers to breeders who ignore breed standards and the health of their dogs and cats while mixing breeds and paying no attention to the genetic history of their animals.
Try:  The Almost Home Dachshund Rescue Society has a detailed description of the characteristics and habits of a backyard breeder.