Breeders Brew: The Dog Breeding Podcast

Feeling unsure about how to handle a puppy return, when to give calcium or why your TCI didn’t take? In this episode, we tackle some of the most common breeder dilemmas head-on, offering clear, practical answers drawn from real-world experience, not outdated advice from Facebook. From managing food quality and supplement gaps to protecting yourself with proper contracts and understanding the accur...

Are pig rails truly essential or just outdated advice? Unsure whether elective C-sections are being overused or when it’s safe to leave a litter overnight?  In this Q&A episode, Sara and Isobel are joined by Jo from Northwest Breeding Services to unpack some of the most debated topics in dog breeding today, offering honest opinions, diverse perspectives, and no sugarcoating. From paddling pool...

Thinking of breeding your dog but unsure where to start or worried about making a mistake? In this episode, we address some of the most common myths and mistakes found in breeding forums, from misconceptions about natural matings to the risks of early vaccinations and poor socialisation timing. We break down why “I’m not a breeder” isn’t a free pass, what really goes wrong with novice pairings, an...

Are you unsure if your bitch is too old for a first litter or feeling overwhelmed by conflicting advice in whelping groups?  In this episode, we tackle real breeder dilemmas and bring clarity to the chaos. From managing multiple litters with limited equipment to the emotional toll of high-stakes breedings, we share the truths most breeders keep to themselves. You’ll hear honest reflections on when...

What happens when someone who's never owned a dog suddenly finds themselves living with a pack of Dachshunds and managing a stud dog?   In this episode, we sit down with Isobel's partner, Harry, who went from zero dog experience to becoming an active part of a responsible breeding setup. As a first-time dog owner and new stud dog handler, Harry shares what shocked him, what he's lea...

Confused by conflicting advice on due dates, milk supply or whether you should really be bathing puppies before they leave?  In this Q&A episode, we unpack the most common (and often questionable) breeding advice circulating online and replace it with practical, experience-backed guidance you can trust. From tracking ovulation and understanding colostrum to navigating the unpredictable cost of...

Feeling overwhelmed by conflicting advice online or frustrated by the chaos of Facebook breeding groups?  You’re not alone. In this first episode of Series Two, we reflect on the powerful feedback from Series One and introduce our new interactive Q&A format, designed to tackle the fundamental questions breeders are asking—without the fluff, myths or guesswork. We cover the dangers of following...

Worried about losing a puppy in those fragile early days or unsure how to spot and support a newborn who’s struggling?  In this episode, we delve into the realities of newborn care, from recognising congenital issues to navigating fading puppy syndrome and managing large litters. We challenge the outdated idea of a “runt” and explore what early abnormalities really mean for a puppy’s future. You’l...

Worried about missing something important once the puppies arrive? What does normal look like, or how do you spot early warning signs of infection, dehydration or poor milk transfer? In this episode, we focus on the vital observations and daily actions that can make all the difference in those critical early days—from tracking vaginal discharge to recognising signs of fading puppies, poor latch or...

Struggling with fussy eaters or confused about what to feed weaning puppies? Are you unsure if raw feeding is worth the cost or how to handle the dreaded six-week squits? In this episode, we cut through the confusion around weaning and explore why popular go-to options like goat's milk and Weetabix might be doing more harm than good. We share tips for smoother weaning using transition foods,...

Worried about why your bitch only carried one pup or whether reabsorption is affecting your litter size? Unsure when a C-section is justified or how to improve your breeding outcomes next time? In this episode, we delve into the intricate world of canine fertility, with a particular focus on singleton puppies and the proactive steps that can enhance their chances of survival. We explore Sara'...

Worried about when to give calcium during labour or if your supplements are doing more harm than good? Not sure how to support your bitch through each stage of whelping without accidentally interfering? In this episode, we break down the key facts breeders need to know about calcium supplementation, labour timelines and the breeder’s role in supporting one of the largest muscles in the body — the...

Worried that something in your setup could trigger mastitis or put your puppies at risk? Are you unsure if your hygiene routine is truly protecting your litter as it should?   In this episode, we delve into the fundamental health and hygiene principles every breeder needs to master, from recognising early signs of pain or infection to preventing trauma and supporting weakened immune systems. We co...

Worried about a low milk supply or wondering how to support your dam through lactation?  In this episode, we delve into the intricate factors that influence milk production—from brain chemistry and prolactin to hormone feedback loops and dietary considerations. We also look at how breed differences, kibble versus raw feeding, and a dam’s appetite can all play a part. We share Isobel’s go-to strate...

Are you worried your whelping kit is missing something important? Which tools are essential and which ones gather dust?   In this episode, we break down exactly what belongs in a well-planned, breed-specific whelping kit, sharing real-life tools and unexpected breeder favourites—from rabbit hutches to secret bone broth recipes. We also tackle common mistakes associated with Velcro ID collars and m...

Why Breeders Brew Exists and Why You'll Want to Stick Around If you've ever googled something in a panic at 2 am during whelping, felt out of your depth mid-pregnancy or wondered if anyone else cares about doing things correctly, you're in the right place. We created the Breeders Brew Podcast for breeders who want honest answers, not recycled myths. Whether you're planning your...