Can anyone give me info on what it means to have a bitch on breeding terms as I have seen this term in magazines and I have got a very basic grasp of it , but I would like to know how many litters a bitch is expected to have and do you get to keep her when she has finished breeding for good? Any information would be gratefully received. Lynne.

Hi Lynne, I have first hand experience of breeding terms, so I feel qualified to answer your query.
Breeding terms vary, and are agreed at the time you take posession of the dog/bitch. Basically the breeder sets out the terms and the new owner either agrees to them, or not and if not then the sale does not go ahead. Usually the new owner gets the dog/bitch at a greatly reduced price in return for agreeing to the terms.
Let me explain the terms on which I have one bitch and have previously had another.
Bitch 1 was bought for half the usual price, in return for terms on the first litter only. Her breeder chose the stud dog to which she had her first litter, and was entitled to choose his pick of litter. The associated costs of breeding the litter were mine. At this point the terms were fulfilled and the bitch became my sole property.
Bitch 2 was given to me for no cost whatsoever, when she is bred from her breeders will re-register her in their names and the litter will bear their affix. One puppy of their choosing will be given to me and the rest will be their property. The bitch will return to me after the litter.
So you see terms vary, it very much depends on what you are willing to agree to and what you get out of it in return.
Dawn R.

Have to add, having a bitch on breeding terms can be a minefield!!! There has to be total trust on both sides, all terms should be in writing & all eventualities need to be covered. To give an example, something which seems simple, bitch sold at reduced price in return for bitch puppy from first litter - what happens if she only has dogs? Does the breeder insist on one from the 2nd? What if the owner doesn't want to breed again? etc. etc.

Breeding terms vary dramatically I have only ever sold one bitch on breeding terms and she went to a friend -
basicly he was given the bitch provided he gave me half of her first litter as and when he chose to breed it!
this worked because he is a trainer/worker of the breed he wanted the bitch to work and for her bloodlines so the intention was for him to breed at least one litter from her.
we also covered a few other issues such as her hips and eyes had to be tested by him and if the score was unacceptable he would not breed her and he would owe me nothing.
i wouldnt like to enter into this arrangment with a stranger though.