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Welcome to the Breeding Journal
For a long time, this journal existed quietly in a folder on my computer—labeled, organized, and created mostly for myself. Breeding is not just about puppies; long before a litter is born, there are countless hours of observation, science, ethics, planning, and sometimes very difficult decisions. While I understand that not everyone wants or needs to see this side of the work, I also believe that education—especially for novice breeders—is important. This Breeding Journal is a collection of real stories, experiences, and practices related specifically to breeding: what we’ve done, why we’ve done it, and what we’ve learned along the way. It is an ongoing space, and I promise to continue adding to it as our program evolves. Not every story here is intended for puppy families, and that’s perfectly okay. If this level of detail isn’t for you, we invite you to visit our Living with a German Shepherd blog, where we share reflections on dogs, families, and real life with our dogs. This section of our website is dedicated entirely to breeding—and to those who genuinely want to understand it more deeply.

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The hand of a breeder
When You Shake a Breeder’s Hand When you come to my home, you shake my hand. A simple gesture. Polite. Ordinary. But this is not an ordinary hand. This is the hand of a breeder. It is the hand that felt your puppy move for the very first time, long before you knew they existed. The hand that rested on a mother’s belly late at night, quietly counting movements, listening, watching, waiting. The hand that calmed her during labor, steady and reassuring, when instinct and trust m
Serge and Veronika
Feb 193 min read


On Guarantees, Ethics, and How We Approach Stud Service
One of the most common questions we receive from breeders inquiring about our stud service is whether we offer “guarantees.” This question often leaves us both uncomfortable and genuinely concerned, and we believe it deserves a clear, thoughtful response. When working with live animals, reproduction, and breeding , there are no guarantees—ever . Breeding is not a transactional process; it is a biological one. No matter how experienced, knowledgeable, or prepared a breeder ma
Serge and Veronika
Feb 163 min read


Genetic & Orthopedic Health Testing in Female GSD
Timing, Heat Cycles, and Best Practices for Responsible Breeding One of the most common and important questions we receive from followers and prospective breeders is: “Should hip and elbow testing be done during a female’s heat cycle—or should it be avoided?” This is an excellent question, and the answer requires understanding how orthopedic evaluations work , how female hormones influence joint laxity , and how responsible breeding programs plan testing well in advance . Why
Serge and Veronika
Feb 164 min read


An Educational Look at Ethical Breeding & Stud Requirements in German Shepherd Dogs
Understanding Ethical Breeding Practices As a breeder, I often receive inquiries from families eager to learn about breeding, considering a future litter, or simply wanting to understand how ethical breeding programs operate. I’m always happy to share my experience and help people better understand the breed I care so deeply about. Thoughtful questions and curiosity are always welcome! However, one situation gives me pause—not because I don’t want to help, but because it refl
Serge and Veronika
Feb 74 min read


Silenced for Speaking Facts: When Breeding Advice Becomes Controversial in Online Dog Groups
In the world of responsible dog breeding, sharing accurate information shouldn't be controversial—but unfortunately, not everyone sees it that way. Recently, I responded to a question posted in a Facebook group by a pet owner who was considering using their male German Shepherd as a stud. They asked for advice on how to get started with breeding, and I replied with a detailed but respectful comment outlining the standard prerequisites any male dog should meet before being co
Serge and Veronika
Jun 3, 20254 min read


Understanding the Stages of Dog Pregnancy: What to Expect Week by Week
Dog pregnancy, also known as gestation, typically lasts about 63 days (around 9 weeks), but just like in humans, this can vary slight ly depending on the individual dog. Whether you're a breeder, a pet parent, or just curious, understanding the stages of pregnancy in dogs can help you better care for your expectant mama and prepare for the arrival of the puppies. Let’s walk through the journey, week by week, and see what changes occur in both the mother and her developing pu
Serge and Veronika
Apr 7, 20253 min read


Understanding the Different Types of Artificial Insemination in Dogs
Artificial insemination (AI) has become a valuable tool in responsible dog breeding, allowing breeders to carefully manage genetics, preserve valuable bloodlines, and even facilitate international breeding without the stress of travel for dogs. But did you know there are actually several different types of AI in dogs? Each has its own benefits, limitations, and best-use scenarios. Whether you're a new breeder or just curious, here’s a breakdown of the main types of artificial
Serge and Veronika
Apr 7, 20252 min read


Types of Semen
Types of semen Insemination can be performed using three types of canine semen: fresh, fresh-chilled, and frozen. Fresh Fresh ejaculated canine semen has the longest viability. Semen from young, fertile stud dogs can survive for up to 5-7 days in the bitch’s reproductive tract. Fresh-chilled Fresh-chilled semen involves the dilution of ejaculated semen in special canine extenders which contain egg yolk and buffers that protect the sperm during the cooling process. The extende
Serge and Veronika
Feb 13, 20251 min read


Breeding Dog: Natural & Artificial
Allowing dogs to mate naturally is undoubtedly the simplest and least intrusive method of breeding. However, in today's modern world with advanced technology, Artificial Insemination (AI) becomes very convenient, especially when natural mating is not feasible. Several factors influence the chances of pregnancy when using artificial insemination, such as the type of semen (fresh or frozen), its quality and quantity, the age and fertility of both the stud dog and the bitch, t
Serge and Veronika
Feb 13, 20254 min read


Dog's Heat Cycle
When female dogs enter puberty, they begin to have heat cycles. The dog's heat (estrous) cycle consists of four distinct stages: Proestrus and Estrus that both happen during visible bloody discharge and Diestrus and Anestrus , that take place after the discharge. What most people refer to as “coming into heat” or “coming into season” refers to the timing when a female has bloody discharge from her vulva. This period has two stages called Proestrus and Estrus. While knowing t
Serge and Veronika
Jan 25, 20243 min read


What Day of the Cycle should I breed my dog?
This is another SUPER COMMON question that novice breeders ask when it comes to mating their dogs. I personally find it funny enough, when this question pops up on social media and hundreds of comments show up shortly suggesting breeding dogs on "day 7 of her cycle" or "day 11 after first onset of bloody discharge" or any other NUMBER. The truth is, there is NO magical number that will work for every dog. Every bitch is different and every bitch will ovulate on her own timing
Serge and Veronika
Jan 25, 20244 min read


What age should I start breeding my Female dog?
Hello! I see this question pop up every single time a pet owner wants to become a dog breeder. I say "pet owner" because most seasoned breeders, or those that have done their research in preparations to become a breeder, would know the answer to this question. I will keep the breed prerequisite for breeding for another post and keep this one strictly related to the age and health of the female dog. Please note that we are ONLY working with German Shepherd Dogs and our experie
Serge and Veronika
Oct 17, 20234 min read
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