Introduction
Pros and Cons of Being a Guardian Dog Owner
“Pros and Cons of Being a Guardian Dog Owner”, Considering the concept of dog guardianship but uncertain about its specifics? Contemplating the acquisition of a new canine companion but concerned about the financial commitment?
Opting to become a Guardian Family for a dog breeder could be an optimal solution, offering the opportunity to welcome a new furry friend into your home without the hefty price tag.
However, it’s crucial to note that not everyone is well-suited for the role of a Guardian dog owner or family.
If you find yourself questioning your suitability, read on to explore the “Pros and Cons of Being a Guardian Dog Owner” to gain insights into whether this arrangement aligns with your lifestyle and preferences.
What Exactly is a Guardian Dog Owner?
If you’re contemplating the role of a Guardian dog owner and wondering, “Should I be a Guardian home for a dog?” you’re in the right place.
Let’s explore the advantages and disadvantages of being a Guardian dog owner, providing you with insights to make an informed decision.
As the saying goes, a dog is a lifelong commitment, and it’s essential to ensure you’re ready for the role before making any commitments.
Pros
Contemplating the role of a Guardian dog owner and questioning if it’s the right fit for you? Let’s delve into the advantages and disadvantages of this unique arrangement to help you make an informed decision.
Remember, a dog is a lifelong commitment, so understanding the pros and cons is crucial before you embark on this journey.
Cost Reduction
Choosing to be a Guardian owner can significantly reduce the financial burden of having a pet. While this shouldn’t be the sole motivation, it offers the chance to enjoy the companionship of an expensive breed without the typical upfront expenses.
Most often, the initial deposit is the only financial commitment, and once the contract concludes, the dog becomes legally yours.
Best of the Litter
As a Guardian owner, you’ll likely receive a healthy, well-behaved dog, as breeders select only the best puppies — those displaying good health and temperament — for breeding. This ensures a promising start for you in terms of the dog’s health and behavior.
Saving from a Miserable Life
By becoming a Guardian dog owner, you contribute to sparing dogs from life on puppy farms, providing them with a safe and loving home.
Puppy farms often subject dogs to poor living conditions, confinement in small cages, and inadequate care, leading to health and behavioral issues.
Lifelong Companion
Fulfilling your contract duties makes you a dog owner for life, offering the many health benefits associated with pet ownership. Studies show that pet owners experience lower rates of mental health conditions, reduced blood pressure, and fewer doctor visits, emphasizing the positive impact of having a dog on overall well-being.
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Cons
Here are some Cons of being a dog owner.
Residential Commitment:
Being a Guardian dog owner requires staying in close proximity to the breeder, limiting your ability to relocate.
For the duration of the contract, which may extend for a year or more, regular meetups with the breeder are necessary.
This commitment also means you can’t travel extensively, as being available for checkups and breeding is crucial.
Residential Commitment:
To fulfill your responsibilities as a Guardian owner, stability in your living situation is essential.
Constantly moving around or frequent long-term kennel stays may not align with the well-being of the dog, who is meant to be a cherished family member.
Consider your readiness to stay in one place for the next few years before deciding to be a Guardian pet owner, ensuring the best interests of both you and the dog are prioritized.
Dealing with Female Dog Heat Cycles
If you’re considering becoming a Guardian dog owner, it’s crucial to be aware of certain responsibilities, one of which involves dealing with female dog heat cycles.
This natural biological process involves vulvar swelling and vaginal bleeding when female dogs go into season. The extent of bleeding can vary, with some dogs experiencing heavier discharge than others.
Typically, the signs of a female dog in heat become apparent a few days after entering estrus. At the beginning of the cycle, the discharge is often thick and bloody, transitioning to a more watery and blood-tinged state towards the end.
During this period, which lasts for about 21 days, your responsibility as a Guardian owner involves managing and cleaning up the blood, as well as ensuring your dog is kept away from male dogs until mating is appropriate, typically 7 to 10 days into the cycle.
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If the prospect of dealing with blood and managing your female dog’s interactions during this time is something you’re comfortable with, then being a Guardian dog owner might be a suitable role for you.
However, if the idea of handling these aspects makes you squeamish, it’s advisable to reconsider this commitment.
Being fully aware of the responsibilities associated with a female dog in heat ensures that both you and your canine companion have a positive and comfortable experience.
Temporary Separation
One of the significant considerations when contemplating being a Guardian dog owner is the requirement to temporarily part with your dog for extended periods, typically around nine weeks each year.
This separation occurs when your dog is ready to whelp her litter, and it’s an integral part of your responsibilities as a Guardian.
The emotional challenge of being without your beloved pet for such an extended duration can be particularly tough, especially if you have young children who may find it hard to grasp the concept of the temporary absence of their furry friend.
While the positive aspect is the anticipation of new puppies that will bring joy to another family, it’s essential to weigh the emotional impact of the separation.
Consider whether you can genuinely cope with the emotional strain of giving up your dog for several weeks at a time.
This aspect requires careful thought and reflection before deciding to become a Guardian dog family or single owner.
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If the idea of this separation seems too challenging, it’s important to assess whether you’re the right fit for the role of a Guardian pet owner.
Open communication with the breeder and a clear understanding of the emotional aspects involved will contribute to making an informed decision that aligns with your comfort and well-being.
Requirements for Becoming a Guardian Dog Owner
Becoming a Guardian dog owner comes with a set of responsibilities and requirements to ensure the well-being of the dog and the success of the breeding program. If you’re considering taking on this role, here are the essential qualifications:
-
- Previous Experience with Dogs:
- A foundational understanding of canine care and behavior is crucial.
- Ability to Teach Basic Commands:
- Proficiency in teaching basic commands such as sit, stay, and leave it is essential for proper training.
- Proximity to the Breeder:
- Living close to the breeder is necessary, and a willingness to stay in the same location for the agreed-upon period is crucial.
- Home Visits:
- Willingness to allow the breeder to visit your home periodically for assessments and checks.
- Fenced Yard:
- A fully fenced yard ensures a safe environment for the dog, allowing for proper exercise and play.
- Provision of Veterinary Care:
- Commitment to providing proper veterinary care, grooming, and vaccinations for the dog.
- Regular Exercise:
- Ensuring the dog receives regular exercise to maintain good health and well-being.
- Notification of Heat Cycle:
- Timely notification to the breeder when the female dog begins her heat cycle.
- Socialization Skills:
- Ensuring the dog is well socialized with other dogs and people for balanced behavior.
- Preventing Interaction with Intact Males:
- Not allowing the dog to be around intact males during the heat cycle to prevent unintended breeding.
- Breeding Permissions:
- Not allowing another person to breed other females without explicit permission from the breeder.
- Previous Experience with Dogs:
FAQs: Being a Guardian Dog Owner
1. What is a Guardian Dog Owner?
- A Guardian Dog Owner is an individual or family that agrees to raise and care for a breeder’s dog as a beloved family pet. This involves a formal contract to ensure the dog’s well-being, allowing for a specific number of breeding cycles before retirement.
2. What are the benefits of being a Guardian Dog Owner?
- Benefits include a reduced cost of having a pet, receiving a healthy dog selected from the best of the litter, contributing to responsible breeding practices, and enjoying the companionship of a lifelong (almost) furry friend.
3. What responsibilities does a Guardian Dog Owner have?
- Responsibilities include providing proper care, training, and veterinary attention, maintaining a fully fenced yard, notifying the breeder of the dog’s heat cycle, preventing interaction with intact males during the heat cycle, and allowing periodic home visits by the breeder.
4. How long do Guardian Dog Owners have to give up their dogs for breeding?
- Guardian Dog Owners are typically required to give up their dogs for about nine weeks each year when the female dog is ready to whelp her litter.
5. Can Guardian Dog Owners travel during the breeding period?
- Guardian Dog Owners are generally expected to stay close to the breeder and refrain from extensive travel during the agreed-upon period, ensuring availability for necessary checkups and breeding.
6. What happens if a Guardian Dog Owner cannot fulfill their responsibilities?
- If a Guardian Dog Owner cannot fulfill their responsibilities, it is crucial to communicate openly with the breeder. In some cases, alternative arrangements may be made, or the breeder may seek a new Guardian home for the dog.
7. Can Guardian Dog Owners have other intact animals in the household?
- It is advisable for Guardian Dog Owners to avoid having other intact animals, especially males, in the household during the female dog’s heat cycle to prevent unintended breeding.
8. How can I become a Guardian Dog Owner?
- To become a Guardian Dog Owner, contact reputable breeders in your area, express your interest, and discuss the terms of the Guardian arrangement. Be prepared to meet the qualifications outlined by the breeder.
These frequently asked questions provide insights into the responsibilities, benefits, and considerations associated with being a Guardian Dog Owner. For more specific details, it is recommended to engage in open communication with the breeder and carefully review the terms of the Guardian agreement.