We're back with a fresh batch of listener questions that speak to the heart of everyday breeding life—from the emotional (and sometimes awkward) challenge of dealing with puppy returns, to the head-scratching realities of food formulation changes, and the technical demands of TCI and post-mating care.
As always, this episode is rooted in real-world experience with practical advice you can apply straight away—whether you're on your first litter or refining your fifth generation.

How should I handle a puppy return?
Bev got in touch after a puppy buyer asked for a refund just days after taking the pup home due to an allergy. She was willing to take the puppy back, but unsure of the best way to handle it.

• Your puppy contract should always include clear return terms—if it doesn’t, draw up a separate return agreement with refund conditions, timelines, and a vet check
• If it’s early days and health-related, a full refund is reasonable—but beyond that, a partial refund (minus your costs) is fair
• Don’t take a return personally—it often reflects trust in your support as a breeder
• Focus less on the reason and more on ensuring the puppy ends up in the right home

My dog’s food has changed—what should I do?
A listener in Canada noticed coat and stool changes even though she hadn’t switched brands, and asked about food quality and supplement support.

• Vague terms like “animal derivatives” on labels allow brands to change recipes without notice—watch for coat dullness, itchiness or digestive issues
• Even high-end foods may fall short for pregnant and lactating bitches—they often need folic acid (for clefts) and selenium (for conception and puppy viability)
• Supplementing only works when the dose, duration and product quality are right
• Calcium should only be given after labour begins—and calcium citrate is safer than chalk-based forms

What went wrong with my TCI—and how can I improve next time?
​Lara asked what she could do differently after a failed transcervical insemination (TCI).

• TCI is often used when natural matings fail or when using frozen semen, but success hinges on precise timing—3 days after ovulation
• Always confirm ovulation with progesterone testing, and consider post-mating hormone checks to confirm the pregnancy is holding
• Not all clinics offer the same care—ask about their equipment, protocols, and aftercare
• Progesterone support may be needed if levels drop—and every detail matters when you're working with challenging breedings

In this Q&A-style episode of The Breeders Brew, Sara and Isobel take a deep dive into online whelping group discussions, dissecting common breeding questions and offering expert insights. From determining the best age for a first litter to managing incubators and navigating the emotional rollercoaster of breeding, they unpack the good, the bad, and the downright questionable advice often found online. Tune in as they share their own experiences, bust myths, and discuss why having a trusted support network is essential for responsible breeding.

• Understanding the Right Age for a First Litter
  
  • General guidance suggests that breeding a first litter before four years old is ideal.
  • Breed-specific considerations may influence the best time, especially for giant breeds with shorter lifespans.
  • Younger bitches generally have better overall health and physical resilience for pregnancy.
  • Kennel Club guidelines allow first litters up to eight years old, but responsible breeders should consider if that is ethical.
  • Decisions should be case-by-case, considering the bitch’s health, fertility, and lifestyle.
• Managing Whelping Setups and Incubators
  
  • A 12-day-old litter can typically transition to a whelping box with a heat pad rather than staying in an incubator.
  • Mixing litters, especially those with significant age gaps, is risky due to immune system differences and developmental mismatches.
  • The need for incubators depends on breed and situation—some French Bulldogs, for example, may not require them.
  • Always prioritise the weakest and youngest pups when determining whelping setup needs.
  • Proper airflow, spacing, and temperature control are crucial for neonates’ health and mobility.
• Lessons from Breeding: The Highs and Lows
  
  • Every litter presents new learning opportunities, even for experienced breeders.
  • Responsible breeding involves continuously improving methods and not becoming complacent.
  • The emotional toll of breeding, especially when things go wrong, can be significant.
  • Support networks—whether family, friends, or breeding communities—are invaluable.
  • Successes are rewarding, but losses can be devastating, particularly after significant investment in time, money, and effort.
• The Impact of Sleep Deprivation and Stress on Breeders
  
  • "Puppy brain" is real—prolonged exhaustion leads to poor decision-making and mental fog.
  • Some breeders report experiencing nightmares, extreme stress, and even physical side effects.
  • Proper preparation, organisation, and a strong support network can mitigate stress.
  • Sleep deprivation affects hormone regulation and overall well-being—making planning ahead vital.
  • Emotional attachment to puppies makes decision-making harder, highlighting the importance of having a clear breeding plan.
• Finding Your Breeding Community
  
  • Many breeders seek advice and support in online groups, but not all Facebook groups provide accurate information.
  • The Breeders Brew Community on Facebook offers a space for responsible and proactive breeders.
  • Membership communities like the ones offered by Sara and Isobel provide structured, evidence-based support.
  • Continuous learning is essential—breeders should engage with specialists, read new research, and refine their practices.
  • Having a trusted circle to discuss challenges and share experiences improves both breeding success and well-being.

Want to be part of a responsible and knowledgeable breeding community? Here’s how:

• Join the Breeders Brew Community on Facebook – A private group for passionate and proactive breeders where you can ask questions, share experiences, and connect with like-minded individuals.
• Email Us Your Questions – Have a burning question you’d like us to answer in a future episode? Send it to [email protected].
• ​Follow & Subscribe – Make sure to follow The Breeders Brew on your preferred podcast platform so you never miss an episode.

Until next time, happy breeding!