hi there i was wondering what is meant by the words 'approved bitches'.as i would like to breed my bitch next year and i want to make sure i can.thanks

Usually it's a bitch that has passed all the breed-relevant health tests for hereditary conditions, whose registration is not endorsed, and whose pedigree is suitable for the particular stud dog.

And looks good enough. The last thing a stud dog owner wants is a bitch that is a poor specimen of her breed, producing pups that may also be poor -as so often the stud dog gets the blame for everything!

It will mean all sorts of things, compatible being one, having the relevant health clearances,a dn teh owner having the qualities needed to become a responsible ethical breeder.

I think this paragraph from our breeds code of ethics explains it a little:

"Stud dog owners must satisfy themselves as to the suitability, breeding and condition of any bitch presented to them, also the condition under which any resultant litter would be reared. If the owner of the bitch is not a member of the Club they should be made aware of the Club's Code of Ethics.

Stud dog owners should be honest about possible problems in each breeding programme and discerning about the use of their dog. "