Tests
DNA + OFA

Each Fiddlefigg is Embarked and tested for 207 genetic variants, 5 of which are specific to the Chihuahua breed. 

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Each Fiddlefigg has its heart and knees examined and cleared prior to breeding. For heart we are looking for any murmurs and for knees we are looking for luxation, or, when the knee cap slides out of place. Heart and knee evals are completed once a dog turns 1 year old by a physical examination of a qualified examiner. My vet performs our evals.

OFA recommends checking heart, knees, and eyes. Ophthalmologists are difficult to find but they do have traveling clinics which we attend when in our area. As long as the dog doesn't have an eye related genetic variant I consider them sound; however, OFA eye tests are still completed as is recommended.

Figg is CHIC certified meaning his heart, knees, and eyes have been examined and cleared as normal.

Fitness to be bred

Each breed has it's own set of important health concerns that inform their fitness to be bred. I've mentioned genetic and OFA testing but what is also important to consider is body frame and mental maturity.

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If a dog has the following I will consider them for breeding:
 

1. Passed its genetic screenings
    

2. Passed its heart and knee examinations (these can only be done at 1 year of age)
    

3. Is of healthy weight and sturdy frame (not fragile)
    

4. Has the ability to focus and is clearly mentally developed.

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I share these things in an effort to be transparent and to facilitate any questions for those who are considering me for their breeder.  

Back to Back breeding

The overall health of a female informs their breeding plan. Back to back breeding keeps canine reproduction issues, such as pyometra, in check, however, this advantage must be balanced against the needs of the female. Some do better than other's with pregnancy and these decisions are made on a case by case basis.

Breeding is an ongoing science. Each of my dogs is treated as an individual, not an assumed quantity. Some decisions may be appropriate for one female that is not for another. 

Profits

Breeding and raising dogs to be future companions brings me a lot of joy. To produce the healthiest, best cared for, and quality companions money, and lots of my own, is required. Tests, facilities, emergencies, shows, leaches, bowls, filing cabinets, gas to deliver puppies, you name it, everting has a cost associated with it. I absolutely aim to make a successful business which will allow me to build better things for my dogs and create better experiences for my clients. I hope, too, there is a little extra at times for myself, but my main focus is to build a business that connects happy, healthy dogs to loving homes.