I have a Bull mastiff named Zak, he is nearly 3. I want to find a suitable dog for him to stud. I live in Gateshead.

It is normal practice for the owners of bitches to approach the owner of a male with the view of using him at stud. They will be looking for a male to complement and improve on the qu7alities in their bitch. They will be looking for a dog that has produced the quality of pups they hope to breed, and /or has proved to be a superior example by his wins at shows.

If you do not show and have not studied the breed to gain an in depth knowledge to assess your dog and any potential partners you should not be looking to offer your dog at stud. You will be responsible for a new generation and should be knowledgeavle about what faults, health defects he may pass on, or the bitches lines may carry.

This I think is an American link but most things will apply, just timeing of health checks will be different. http://www.k9web.com/dog-faqs/breeding.html. Here in Uk to have your dog Hip Scored you need to book an appointment at the vet who will take x-rays and these then have to be submitted to the British Veterinary Association for evaluation by a Orthopaedic panel of experts. This will cost in the region of £150. There may be other checks that are needed. I would suggest joining the Ntional breed club and find out what the requirements are for your breed.