How to Be Animal Breeder - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

May 24, 2020 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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Animal breeding is a popular activity in the United States, as it enables people to selectively produce animals with desired characteristics. It is a complex process that requires knowledge of genetics, animal nutrition, and animal husbandry. The process begins with the selection of parents with certain desired characteristics, such as size, coat color, or disposition.

By carefully selecting animals with these traits, breeders can increase the likelihood that the offspring will have similar characteristics. Once the parents are selected, they are mated and the breeder monitors the pregnancy, birth, and early stages of development to ensure the best outcome for the animals. After the animals are born, the breeder continues to monitor their growth, health, and temperament to ensure that they meet the desired standards.

Animal breeding is a rewarding but challenging endeavor that requires dedication and commitment to ensure the best outcomes for animals.

Steps How to Become

Become familiar with the animal species you are interested in breeding. Research the various species of animals you are interested in breeding, such as their diet, behavior, health requirements and other important information.
Obtain formal education. Pursue a degree in a related field, such as animal science, veterinary medicine, biology or zoology.
Gain experience. Participate in internships or volunteer positions at a zoo, farm or similar facility.
Become certified. Obtain certification from the American Association of Professional Animal Breeders (AAPAB) or other applicable organizations.
Start your own business. Begin breeding animals on your own or join an existing breeding business.
Follow all relevant codes and laws. Understand and adhere to local, state and federal regulations governing the breeding of animals.
Maintain records. Keep accurate records of each animal in your care, including health records, diet and other important information.

As an animal breeder, it is important to stay ahead and qualified in order to be successful. This requires constant education on the latest technologies, research and developments in the field. Keeping up with new trends and developments can be accomplished by attending industry events, reading trade journals, and networking with fellow breeders.

staying current with the latest laws and regulations can help to ensure that your business remains compliant and up-to-date. Finally, investing in quality veterinary care for your animals is essential in order to ensure that they remain healthy and productive. By taking these steps, animal breeders can ensure their success and stay ahead of the competition.

You may want to check Animal Caregiver, Animal Adoption Counselor, and Animal Control Officer Supervisor for alternative.

Job Description

Feed and water animals
Monitor animal health
Observe and record animal behavior
Breed animals according to established criteria
Administer medication to animals
Ensure animal shelter facilities are clean and safe
Provide training and socialization of animals
Perform health screenings on animals
Coordinate transportation of animals
Keep detailed records of animal care activities

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of animal genetics and breeding.
Understanding of animal nutrition and diet.
Ability to recognize genetic defects.
Ability to evaluate the health of animals.
Ability to manage breeding programs.
Familiarity with animal husbandry and management practices.
Familiarity with animal behavior and welfare.
Knowledge of relevant legislation and regulations.
Knowledge of animal health and safety standards.
Excellent organizational and time management skills.
Ability to maintain accurate records and documents.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to work with a variety of people, including customers, vendors, and government officials.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Animal breeding is a very important skill to have because it can have a significant impact on the quality of life for animals. Breeding requires knowledge and expertise in genetics, animal nutrition, animal behavior, and animal health. This knowledge helps one to select animals with desirable characteristics and provide the best possible environment for successful breeding.

Proper animal breeding also helps to reduce inbreeding depression and maintain desirable gene pools within a species. good animal breeding practices can help reduce the number of physical deformities and health problems in a species. proper animal breeding leads to healthier, better-adjusted animals that can make great pets or provide valuable services for humans.

Animal Care Supervisor, Animal Welfare Inspector, and Animal Welfare Officer are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have with animal breeding?
How do you decide which animals to breed?
What techniques do you use to monitor the health of animals during the breeding process?
How do you handle difficult mating issues that may arise?
What measures do you take to ensure the best possible outcome for the offspring?
How do you handle unexpected results from inbreeding?
What methods do you use to keep track of animals pedigrees?
How do you promote ethical breeding practices?
What safety protocols do you follow when dealing with animals?
How do you handle animals that are no longer suitable for breeding?

Common Tools in Industry

Breeding Software. A software program designed to track and manage the breeding process for animals. (eg: Zinpro Breeding Suite)
Vet Management Software. A software program designed to help manage critical animal health information and records. (eg: Avimark Veterinary Practice Management software)
Pedigree Tracking Software. A software program that allows breeders to track the lineage of their animals. (eg: Breeders Edge Pedigree Software)
Genetics Testing Software. A software program that helps in identifying genetic traits and markers in animals. (eg: Animal Genetics Testing Software)
Feed Management Software. A software program that helps with managing feed intake and nutritional requirements for animals. (eg: FeedWorks Feed Management Software)
Animal Record Keeping Software. A software program designed to help record and analyze data about animals, including health, weight, and nutrition. (eg: eFowl Animal Record Keeping Software)

Professional Organizations to Know

American Kennel Club
Pet Industry Joint Advisory Council
Association of Professional Dog Trainers
Pet Professional Guild
International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants
National Animal Care & Control Association
American Veterinary Medical Association
Society of Animal Welfare Administrators
United States Humane Society
National Animal Control Association

We also have Animal Behaviorist, Animal Shelter Worker, and Animal Restraint Technician jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Breeding. The process of intentionally producing new animals or plants by selecting and mating individuals with desired traits.
Genetics. The scientific study of heredity, traits, and how they are passed on from one generation to the next.
Line Breeding. A type of breeding in which related individuals, such as siblings or parents, are mated to increase the odds of producing offspring with desired characteristics.
Inbreeding. The process of mating closely related individuals in order to produce offspring with specific traits.
Hybridization. The process of crossing two different species or breeds of animals to create new offspring with desired traits.
Selective Breeding. A type of breeding in which animals with desired traits are chosen and mated in order to produce offspring with similar characteristics.
Artificial Insemination. A breeding technique in which semen is collected from a male animal and artificially introduced into the reproductive tract of a female animal in order to impregnate her.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Animal Breeding?

Animal Breeding is the practice of mating animals of different breeds or species to produce offspring with desired characteristics. This can be done through artificial insemination, selective breeding, and crossbreeding.

What are the benefits of Animal Breeding?

Animal Breeding can produce offspring with desired characteristics such as improved health, growth rate, coat color, and more. It can also increase genetic diversity in a population, and can be used to preserve endangered species.

What is the difference between Artificial Insemination and Selective Breeding?

Artificial Insemination is the process of introducing semen into the female reproductive tract for the purpose of fertilizing an egg. Selective Breeding is the process of choosing which animals to breed based on specific desired traits.

How many generations are used in Animal Breeding?

Animal Breeding typically involves two to four generations, depending on the goals of the breeder and the traits they are trying to achieve.

How many different species can be bred together?

Generally, animals of closely related species can be bred together, but the offspring may not be viable. For example, horses and donkeys can produce mules, but mules are sterile.