Q&A Series, Ep 15 - Podcast Show Notes

Q&A: Inbox to Airwaves

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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.

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PODCAST TAKEAWAYS:

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

HOW TO GET INVOLVED

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• ✉️ Submit a Question – Have a breeding-related question? Email us at [email protected] and we may feature it in a future Q&A session.
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