It’s been one year of real talk, no-fluff breeder education—so we’re taking a moment to celebrate! In this special episode, Sara and Isobel reflect on the highs, the learning curves, and the many (many) questions that led to the Breeder’s Brew becoming what it is today.

We wrap up our Q&A series with some powerful topics—irregular seasons, immature bitches, supplements that work, how to time a stud trip, and whether it’s ever okay to use a carrier stud dog. And best of all… we unveil The Brew Crew—our brand new membership designed for breeders who want more support, more clarity, and more community.
​
Whether you've been with us since episode one or you’re just joining the journey, we’re raising a cuppa to you.

You’ve asked for more. So we’ve built more.

The Brew Crew is your next step if you want to go deeper than the podcast. It's a membership for breeders who want genuine support, real-time guidance, and access to education and tools designed by professionals who live and breathe dogs.

What’s inside:

• B!tch & Brew Catch-Ups
  Fortnightly live calls to ask questions, share updates, and talk through the real-life decisions you’re making.
• Spotlight Sessions
  Monthly deep-dives into focused topics like pricing puppies, interpreting COIs, managing studs, and more.
• Breeder Briefs
  Exclusive audio content for members only—get Sara and Isobel’s unfiltered insights on key breeder challenges.
• The Taproom Resource Hub
  Templates, recordings, practical downloads, and a growing bank of tools you can use in your own breeding journey.

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 engaging Q&A episode of the Breeders Brew podcast, co-hosts Sara (Canine Family Planner) and Isobel (Canine Nutrition Coach) are joined by a special guest—Harry, Isobel’s long-term partner. Together, they explore the intricacies of dog ownership, the realities of breeding, and the importance of doing things the right way. Harry brings a fresh perspective, offering insights from someone newer to the dog world but fully immersed in responsible breeding practices.

• Harry’s Unique Journey into Dog Ownership and Breeding
  • Harry grew up in a pet-free household, aside from reptiles, making dogs a new experience when he met Isobel.
  • His first exposure to dog ownership came through miniature Dachshunds, and he shares how their quirky personalities won him over.
  • Despite preferring larger breeds like Bernese Mountain Dogs, Harry has embraced the Dachshund lifestyle.
• Understanding Breed Characteristics: The Dachshund Dynamic
  • Dachshunds are described as small dogs with massive personalities—loyal, vocal, and often stubborn.
  • Their portability is a significant advantage, especially when travelling with multiple dogs.
  • Harry highlights the breed’s growing popularity and the importance of understanding breed-specific challenges and quirks.
• The Reality of Breeding: Planning, Responsibility, and Emotional Investment
  • Breeding is far more complex than many realise, involving extensive planning, health considerations, and potential emotional rollercoasters.
  • Harry shares how his first breeding experience opened his eyes to the demanding nature of breeding responsibly, including the sleepless nights and the need for proactive preparation.
  • Isobel and Harry emphasise the importance of working with experienced breeders or mentors to navigate the challenges that arise.
• Ethical Stud Dog Ownership and Breeding Support
  • The role of a stud dog owner goes beyond providing a mating service; it's about fostering a responsible breeding journey.
  • Harry outlines how they screen potential bitch owners, ensuring they align with responsible breeding practices and are not just seeking a quick mating.
  • They stress the importance of early communication, progesterone testing for optimal timing, and the pitfalls of rushing into a mating without proper preparation.
• Comprehensive Support Beyond the Mating Process
  • Breeding support doesn’t end after the mating; ongoing guidance is essential for the health of the bitch and the future puppies.
  • Bitch owners receive an extensive information pack, including:
    • A comprehensive pregnancy guide tailored to breed-specific needs.
    • A critical care sheet from the Breeders Brew Series 1 handout.
    • Access to Isobel’s support club, offering structured monthly coaching.
    • Personalised guidance on nutrition, pregnancy care, and whelping preparations.
  • Harry and Isobel’s commitment ensures that every breeding they’re involved in upholds the highest standards of care and knowledge sharing.

Have a breeding-related question? Join the discussion!

• Email us: Send your questions to [email protected].
• Join our Facebook community: Search Breeders Brew Community on Facebook to connect with proactive, passionate breeders.​

Series Two has officially begun, and we are thrilled to have you with us. In this episode, Sara and Isobel discuss the incredible response to Series One, highlighting the global reach and impact of the podcast. As we kick off this new season, we're introducing a fresh format—Q&A! We'll be diving into common breeding and whelping questions from online groups, shedding light on the challenges of free and often unverified advice in Facebook communities. Expect real talk, practical insights, and a focus on responsible, informed breeding practices.

• The Dangers of Free Advice:
  • Many responses in online groups lack essential context, leading to potentially dangerous misinformation.
  • The importance of verifying advice and seeking information from knowledgeable, experienced breeders.
  • The term "One-Litter Lucy" and the issue of inexperienced breeders providing misleading guidance.
• Why Qualified Advice Matters:
  • Just because someone is a vet doesn't mean they have hands-on breeding experience.
  • Experience, context, and understanding of breed-specific needs are crucial when giving advice.
• The Importance of Membership Communities:
  • Sara and Isobel are working on creating trusted membership platforms where breeders can access reliable, vetted information.
  • A safe space for learning and sharing experiences without misinformation.
• Breaking Down a Real Whelping Question:
  • A breeder with 10-day-old puppies worries about the mother refusing to stay in the whelping box.
  • Possible causes: Heat source issues, puppy development milestones, and maternal comfort.
  • The common misconception is that a mother must be with her pups 24/7, so why is this not always necessary?
• Another Question – Urgent Whelping Concerns:
  • A breeder reports a stillborn puppy and is waiting for the next pup.
  • The missing details: How long was the labour? How many pups were expected?
  • Why is blindly following "wait three hours" problematic without knowing the full context?
  • The value of consulting a vet instead of relying on unverified online advice.
• The Role of Ultrasound Scanning:
  • Why every bred female should be scanned for proper planning and preparation.
  • Misconceptions about pregnancy detection methods—why gum colour changes and home tests aren't reliable.
  • The risks of not scanning: phantoms, unnoticed absorption, and undiagnosed health issues.
  • It is important to seek a trained and qualified scanner for accurate results.
• Annual Breeders Survey:
  • A project to collect real-world data on whelping trends and experiences.
  • Why factual data is essential in understanding breed-specific whelping trends.
  • How breeders can participate and contribute to a larger body of knowledge.

• Have a question you'd like us to discuss? Please email us at [email protected]
• Join our Facebook group, Breeders Brew Community, for discussions and support.
• Please participate in our Annual Breeders Survey at www.breedersbrew.com/survey to contribute valuable whelping data.

Breeding is complex; quality information is key to raising healthy, well-adjusted puppies. Be mindful of the advice you take online, seek guidance from trusted sources, and join us in creating a well-informed breeding community.

Until next time, happy breeding

In this heartfelt episode, we delve into the intricacies of caring for newborns, emphasising the importance of a strong start in life and addressing common congenital conditions.

Sara challenges the notion of the "runt of the litter", shedding light on the prevalence of puppy abnormalities. Isobel shares how folic acid supplementation can reduce the risk of cleft palate by 48% and the ethical considerations surrounding the treatment of cleft puppies at birth.

Explore the nuances of fading puppy syndrome whilst gaining insight into the challenges of supplement feeding. Learn about hydration over milk feed—practical tips for managing water-to-milk ratios and feeding quantities. The complexities of caring for large litters, including rotation strategies, will also be discussed. 

Discover our favourite milk formulas and feeding methods, from old-school methods to innovative tools like miracle nipples and silicone puppy feeders. Learn why reinvesting in new equipment and paying attention to detail is crucial for success.

Whether you're a seasoned breeder or a newcomer to puppy care, this episode of Breeders Brew is filled with invaluable insights and practical advice to help you navigate the challenges of raising healthy, happy puppies from the beginning.

​PODCAST TAKEAWAYS

• Supplement Feeding Basics
  • Begin with hydration fluid containing electrolytes, gradually increasing the milk ratio as the puppy's condition improves.
  • Offer small, frequent feeds to prevent overloading the puppy's tiny stomach and prioritise hydration over large milk meals.

 

• Tube Feeding
  • Tube feeding allows for precise fluid control and benefits very weak puppies.
  • Proper measurement of tube length for each puppy ensures safe and effective administration. Feeding lying flat helps prevent aspiration.

 

• Equipment/Supplies
  • Before breeding, it's essential to have necessary supplies such as tube feeding kits, milk replacers, and miracle nipples on hand.
  • Reinvesting profits into quality equipment is crucial for ensuring the health and well-being of the puppies.

 

• Cleft Palates
  • Folic acid supplementation is critical for healthy neural development and reducing the risk of cleft palates.
  • Dosing should be tailored based on breed size, as any breed can be susceptible to cleft palates, with brachycephalic breeds at higher risk.

 

• Passionate Puppy Practitioner Recommendations
  • CNC Folic Acid
  • Tube feeding Demo

 

• Don’t forget!
  • Share your personal experiences with us inside the Breeders Brew Community. Register your interest by www.breedersbrew.com/s1.htmldownloading your free Breeders Brew Critical Care Sheet!

Thank you for joining us for another informative episode! Stay tuned for more valuable discussions on dog breeding and wellbeing. Feel free to share your feedback and experiences with us inside the Breeders Brew Community!

This episode focuses on the essential observations breeders must take when their puppies arrive, to avoid breeding blunders.

Join us as we discuss what breeders should be looking out for, from ‘normal’ to ‘dangerous’ discharge, and the benefits of raspberry leaf as a uterine tonic. Learn about the potential risks of retained placentas, the impact of antibiotics on puppies' gut health and immune systems, and how you can avoid the dreaded "6-week squits". 

We delve into common nursing issues such as frustrated milk moans and latching difficulties, all whilst highlighting the significance of puppy observations. We discuss how to analyse puppy stools and spot signs of dehydration, so you can ensure each puppy receives the care it needs to thrive.

Whether you're a seasoned breeder or a newcomer to the world of puppy rearing, this episode of Breeders Brew is filled with invaluable insights and actionable advice to help you navigate the journey from birth to breeding benchmarks with confidence and care.

PODCAST TAKEAWAYS

• Normal Dam Discharge After Whelping
  • Discharge from the dam after whelping can last a significant period and is considered normal, provided the dam has no fever and behaves typically.
  • Oxytocin released during nursing helps in uterine contraction, exacerbating the discharge process. Raspberry leaf can be administered to expedite clearance.

 

• Weighing Puppies Daily
  • It's crucial to weigh each puppy daily during the first few weeks to monitor weight gain and overall health. You should be recording this vital information in the Home Breeder Puppy Playbook.
  • Tracking weights and gains for each puppy enables the identification of any deviations or concerns, allowing for timely adjustments in care.

 

• Signs of Improper Latching
  • Signs of improper latching, such as frustration noises from the puppy during feeding, may indicate issues like low milk supply.
  • Repositioning the puppy on a different teat or assisting with latching can help alleviate feeding difficulties.

 

• Importance of Winding Puppies
  • Regular winding of puppies after feeding is essential, as puppies may need to pass gas despite appearing full.
  • Proper winding ensures comfort and prevents discomfort caused by trapped gas.
  • Watch our winding demo to learn to wind your puppies properly.

 

• Monitoring Urine Output
  • Monitoring urine colour and amount provides valuable insights into puppy hydration levels and milk intake.
  • This simple practice aids in assessing overall health and well-being.

 

• Don't Panic About Lack of Stools
  • Lack of visible stools may not indicate a problem, as the dam often diligently cleans up after the puppies.
  • As long as puppies gain weight and exhibit normal behaviour, lack of visible stools is generally not a cause for concern.

 

• Passionate Puppy Practitioner Recommendations
  • Free Downloadable Puppy Report Card Help Sheet
  • CNC Raspberry Leaf to support uterine healing 
  • Home Breeder Puppy Playbook to record your puppy observations and breeding milestones 
  • Puppy Winding Demo

 

• Don’t forget!
  • Share your personal experiences with us inside the Breeders Brew Community. Register your interest by downloading your free Breeders Brew Critical Care Sheet.

Thank you for joining us for another informative episode! Stay tuned for more valuable discussions on dog breeding and wellbeing. Feel free to share your feedback and experiences with us inside the Breeders Brew Community!

During this episode we discuss breeders' obsession with Goat's milk and Weetabix while emphasising the importance of not making puppies fussy eaters. Learn about the effectiveness of transition foods and discover tips for successful weaning, including adding water and using silicone spoons.

We also discuss the common issue of "6-week squits" and the various solutions, from worming and stool cultures to antibiotics and how supplements like pure slippery elm uncover the incredible benefits of slippery elm for puppies and post-whelping mothers.

Navigate the complexities of raw feeding cost considerations, including litter and breed sizes. Understand the expense of raw weaning and ideas to accommodate the possible additional cost. Also, consider whether raw-fed puppies deter potential owners.

Take action with Sara's playbook feeding guide and implement tips for improving the transition to a new home. Whether you're a seasoned breeder or a novice puppy parent, this episode of Breeders Brew is packed with invaluable insights and practical advice to help you navigate the journey of puppy weaning and raw feeding with confidence and success.

PODCAST TAKEAWAYS

• Raw Feeding for Weaning
  • Raw food closely mimics the natural diet puppies are designed to eat, promoting stronger immune systems and gut health.
  • Raw-fed puppies often experience fewer digestive upsets, leading to cleaner stools and easier cleaning during weaning.
  • Slower but steadier growth rates on raw diets reflect true conformation and health.​

• When to Start Weaning
  • Weaning typically begins around three weeks when puppies' eyes open and they can stand/bear weight.
  • It's essential to be guided by puppies' readiness and avoid forcing a rigid schedule.

 

• Weaning Techniques
  • ​Spoon or finger feeding allows for controlled portions, catering to individual puppies' needs.
  • Start with a loose paste of raw food mixed with warm water and gradually decrease the water content as puppies progress.
  • The transition from boneless mince to a balanced weaning paste at around 4-5 weeks old.

 

• Feeding Schedules
  • Feeding schedules should be flexible, but the aim should be four meals per day by eight weeks old.
  • Start weaning puppies by feeding them first thing in the morning when they're hungry after a night without the mother.
  • Limit the mother's access before meals as weaning progresses to encourage puppies to eat solid food.

• Passionate Puppy Practitioner Recommendations
  • CNC Slippery Elm
  • Home Breeder Puppy Playbook

• Don’t forget!

Share your personal experiences with us inside the Breeders Brew Community. Register your interest by downloading your free Breeders Brew Critical Care Sheet.

Thank you for joining us for another informative episode! Stay tuned for more valuable discussions on dog breeding and wellbeing. Feel free to share your feedback and experiences with us inside the Breeders Brew Community!

• Why do singletons occur?
• What evidence is needed to justify a c-section?
• How common is whole litter and puppy reabsorption? 

In this episode we unravel the intricacies of canine fertility, whilst delving into the unique challenges posed by singleton puppies. Sara shares eye-opening statistics from her white paper on solo pups, and what proactive approaches significantly improve a singleton’s chance of survival.

From discussing whether body proportions can contribute to reabsorption causing small litters, to unveiling the supplements proven to boost fertility, we cover many aspects of the canine fertility puzzle! But it takes two to tango. Stud dogs can be a fertility-ticking-time-bomb, especially those seven years and older, so we look at the importance of fertility testing too.

We begin to untangle the multifaceted factors impacting a dog’s fertility, from diet and condition to age, and even discuss how different breeds have varying fertile windows. So whether you're a seasoned breeder or a newcomer to the world of canine reproduction, this episode of Breeders Brew is packed with invaluable insights and actionable advice to help you optimise fertility and navigate the unique challenges of singleton pups. 

PODCAST TAKEAWAYS

• Causes of Singleton Litters
  • Poor breeding practices, such as not ovulation testing the female, or not fertility testing the stud, can result in singleton litters.
  • Reabsorption may be more common in breeds with extremities in body shape, height, or length, and can lead to singleton litters.
  • Dogs in poor condition, on a poor diet, older dogs, or those with health issues may have reduced fertility, contributing to singleton litters.

 

• Preventing Singleton Litters
  • Following best practices like ovulation and fertility testing can ensure quality matings occur within the optimal window. 
  • Supplements including Natural Selenium, Organic Wheatgerm Oil, and Natural Royal Jelly can support fertility and prevent reabsorption.
  • Regular ultrasound scanning during pregnancy allows for monitoring of litter size and puppy health.

 

• Delivering a Singleton Puppy
  • Elective C-sections have higher survival rates for singleton puppies compared to emergency C-sections.
  • Progesterone testing aids in determining the optimal timing for delivery.
  • Proactive choices made by the breeder can positively increase the singleton’s change of survival

 

• Raising a Singleton Puppy
  • Utilise early neurological stimulation (ENS) and socialisation to compensate for the lack of litter interaction.
  • Provide additional heat sources, such as heat mats, as singleton puppies cannot huddle with littermates for warmth.
  • Remember that singleton puppies may become over-attached or under-socialised without proper training and socialisation.

 

• Passionate Puppy Practitioner Recommendations
  • CNC Preparation Bundle 
  • CFP Progesterone Testing
  • Solo Puppy Protocol (White Paper)

 

• Don’t forget!
  • Share your personal experiences with us inside the Breeders Brew Community. Get your invitation to join us by downloading your free Breeders Brew Critical Care Sheet.

Thank you for joining us for another informative episode! Stay tuned for more valuable discussions on dog breeding and wellbeing. Feel free to share your feedback and experiences with us inside the Breeders Brew Community!

In this episode of the Breeders Brew Podcast, we explore the complexities of canine pregnancy and whelping, exploring the vital role of calcium supplementation and debunking common misconceptions.

Discover the fascinating anatomy of the uterus, an organ with one of the largest muscles in a female dog's body, and learn about the breeder's crucial role in supporting the mother during labour. We touch on the benefits of raspberry leaf and delve into the timeline of canine labour, from active contractions to whelping pauses and puppy arrival

Isobel explains why not all supplements are created equal, that some supplements may do more harm than good and how you can avoid low-grade supplement fillers. We also address the burning question of ‘How long should calcium supplementation be continued?’

Whether you're a seasoned breeder or a newcomer to the world of canine reproduction, this episode of Breeders Brew is packed with essential insights and practical advice to help you navigate the complexities of eclampsia, calcium supplementation and ensure the safe delivery of healthy litters.

PODCAST TAKEAWAYS

• Understanding Eclampsia
  • Eclampsia, also known as milk fever, is caused by calcium deficiency and can affect any breeder, regardless of experience level.
  • Prompt recognition and prevention are essential to mitigate risks associated with the life-threatening condition.

 

• Calcium Supplements
  • Liquid calcium supplements may contain unhelpful or toxic ingredients like propylene glycol and E-numbers that can be unpalatable for dogs.
  • Capsule supplements with transparent ingredients and dosing are preferred, with calcium citrate being highly absorbable and gentle on the stomach.

 

• Prevention Strategies
  • Adjusting the diet by reducing calcium (bone content) around seven weeks into pregnancy helps avoid excess calcium intake, reducing the risk of eclampsia whilst softening the stools.
  • All breeds should be proactively supplemented with Natural Calcium from whelping until at least weaning has commenced. 
  • High-risk females (small & toy breeds, large litters, or previous history of eclampsia) should be supplemented with Natural Calcium for at least six weeks post-whelping to minimise the risk of eclampsia whilst supporting her milk-production.

 

• Passionate Puppy Practitioner Recommendations
  • CNC Natural Calcium

 

• Don’t forget!
  • Share your personal experiences with us inside the Breeders Brew Community. Get your invitation to join us by downloading your free Breeders Brew Critical Care Sheet.

Thank you for joining us for another informative episode! Stay tuned for more valuable discussions on dog breeding and wellbeing. Feel free to share your feedback and experiences with us inside the Breeders Brew Community!

This episode highlights crucial health and hygiene aspects that every breeder should be well-versed in. We explore various factors that can lead to health issues in our beloved canines, from poor hygiene practices to trauma and weak immune systems. Learn to recognise the symptoms that indicate your dog might be in discomfort and understand why pain thresholds vary between breeds.

We answer the question, “Is more milk always better for nursing puppies?” and debunk the misconception that expensive dog food guarantees quality nutrition. We also dive into the role of diet, including the benefits of incorporating vegetables, and consider the unique challenges breeders face in multiple-dog households.

We also unravel the mystery behind cabbage leaves' potential effectiveness in treating mastitis and delve into the complexities of black mastitis, weaning, and the impact of puppy teeth trauma.

Whether you're a seasoned breeder or an enthusiast looking to deepen your understanding of canine health and hygiene, this episode of Breeders Brew is packed with invaluable insights and practical tips to ensure the well-being of your furry companions.

PODCAST TAKEAWAYS:

• Observation and Awareness
  • Being observant is crucial. Understanding your breed's pain threshold and recognising behavioural changes in the mother dog can help detect mastitis early.
  • Puppy nails are identified as the primary cause of mastitis due to trauma to the mammary glands. Regular nail trimming is essential.

 

• Diet and Positioning
  • Diet plays a significant role in milk quality and stickiness, affecting duct blockages. Incorporating fresh vegetables and bone broth can enhance milk quality.
  • Rotating feeding positions on the mother's teats helps prevent engorgement on one side.

 

• Symptoms and Treatment
  • Mastitis symptoms include hot/hard mammary glands, swelling, and discharge. Being aware of your breed's pain threshold can help in early detection.
  • Treatment varies based on severity. Cabbage leaves can offer relief early, while serious infections may necessitate antibiotics. Immediate veterinary attention is required for "black mastitis" cases with dead tissue.

 

• Passionate Puppy Practitioner Recommendations
  • CNC Natural Fengureek

 

• Don’t forget!
  • Share your personal experiences with us inside the Breeders Brew Community. Register your interest by downloading your free Breeders Brew Critical Care Sheet

Thank you for joining us for another informative episode! Stay tuned for more valuable discussions on dog breeding and wellbeing. Feel free to share your feedback and experiences with us inside the Breeders Brew Community!