RUFUS GIWA POLYTECHNIC, OWO, ONDO STATE

AN
ASSIGNMENT PREPARED
BY
GROUP ONE
ABIMBOLA EMMANUEL OLUWAFEMI SO4/SLT/10/404

ADEBAYO OLAYINKA D SO4/SLT/14/1009

ADEKANYE JUSTINAH O SO4/SLT/14/1027

AFOLABI JOY O SO4/SLT/14/1066

ATERE TEMITOPE BOLANLE SO4/SLT/14/1153

FUNMILAYO OLADIMEJI BUKOLA SO4/SLT/14/1231

NAFIU RUKAYA O SO4/SLT/14/1293

OLORUNNIFEMI DEBORAH M SO4/SLT/14/1364

OLUWAFOLAJI AYODELE J SO4/SLT/14/1378

OJO ABIDEMI M SO4/SLT/14/1320

ON
BREEDING OF DIFFERENT DOGS UNDER THE FOLLOWING HEADINGS:

 HOUSING
 MATING
 RECORD KEEPING
 HYGIENE
 DISEASES
 MAINTENANCE

DEPARTMENT: SCIENCE LABORATORY TECHNOLOGY (SLT)

COURSE TITLE: BIOLOGICAL TECHNIQUES II

COURSE CODE: STB 325

LEVEL: HND I

LECTURER IN CHARGE:
MR. ADEDAYO

BRIEF INTRODUCTION ON DOG BREEDS

 There are more than 400 breeds of dog, each developed to carry out a particular activity.
Breeds are categorized by national kennel clubs according to original function or type, but they
can also be categorized genetically. Breeds can be divided into two major groups, ancient breeds
and modern European breeds, using genetic variation (Parker et al., 2004). The latter breeds can
be subdivided into three groups, mastiff-type dogs, collies and Belgian sheepdogs, and hunting
dogs. The ancient breeds, which include the Shar-pei, Shiba-inu, Chow Chow, Akita and Basenji
also include two gazehounds (Saluki and Afghan Hounds) and sled dogs (Siberian Husky and
Alaskan Malamute), have been around for thousands of years. Many breeds, however, were
developed to meet particular needs, especially hunting needs. In Europe, there were two major
periods of dog breed production, the Middle Ages and the 19th Century.

In the Middle Ages, hunting was a symbol of power and the aristocracy produced
different types of dogs for different game and types of hunting. They bred Deerhounds,
Wolfhounds, Boarhounds (Clutton-Brock, 1995) and Beagles/Harriers. Later, Foxhounds were
produced as foxes became an important game animal and hunting from horseback became
common. Gun dogs were developed as shooting gamebirds became popular and took over from
netting birds. In addition, there was a host of small dogs for hunting above and below ground
(terriers, dachshunds), sheep and cattle dogs of several types, guard dogs and a few toy breeds.

Breeding of dogs under:

HOUSING

Housing and behaviour

There are several aspects of dog behaviour that must be taken into account in the care and
housing of dogs. They are:

Dogs are social animals and are better housed in groups than individually. Social
isolation can be a severe stressor for dogs. If dogs are to be individually housed for a project, the
animals should be given extra human interaction, care, attention and play activities, apart from
normal husbandry procedures. Group interaction for individually housed dogs should occur
whenever possible, by pairing dogs during play times or during lead walks.
 The temperament of some dogs makes them unsuitable for housing, either singly or in
groups. Careful observation of the dogs is necessary to identify those that should be excluded
from a project.

Dogs housed in groups form a social structure. Staff needs to be experienced in animal
behaviour and need to be able to understand and monitor this structure and make changes to the
composition and size of the group as required. The number of animals that can be kept in any
group will depend upon age, sex, breed, reproductive status, prior socialization, sibling
relationships, facilities and capability of staff to manage the group.

Human socializing, apart from normal husbandry practices is extremely important for
most dogs 5. It is also essential in accustoming them to human handling procedures in
experimental studies. Dogs that actively avoid or reject human socialization should not be used.

Housing and social interaction

The design and construction of housing provided for dogs can significantly interfere with
their normal social interactions. For example, eye contact between dogs can trigger agonistic
(aggressive) behaviour. If the dog experiences difficulties in coping with the kenneling
condition, he or she may show various behavioral abnormalities such as: excessive barking 6 ,
loss of appetite, withdrawal, displaced aggression and attack behaviour. Therefore, strategies to
avoid these problems must be included in the design and construction of the facilities. The
facilities must provide the dogs with opportunities for behavioral choice.

 Enclosures should provide privacy by the use of a semi-enclosed area or kennel. Kennels
also meet the den needs of some animals. Kennels with flat tops also serve an extra
function in providing a high viewing platform.
 The positioning of enclosures and the placement of dogs in them should be considered.
For example, dominant dogs are best housed at the end of a row of enclosures rather than
in the center.
 There are distinct differences in behavioral interactions between purpose bred and
random sourced animals. For example, purpose bred dogs have well developed social
structures and may benefit from olfactory and tactile contact with other dogs through the
use of mesh walls. Random sourced dogs that have not previously been together are more
 likely to require sight barriers that allow avoidance of direct contact with dogs in other
enclosures

MATING

Allowing the female dog (bitch) to have puppies can be a wonderful experience.
However, dog owners must understand the responsibility that comes with breeding since
overpopulation is a tremendous problem. There are too many abandoned and unwanted mixed
and purebred dogs in pounds and shelters all across the country that have to be euthanized (put to
sleep) each year. Unless every newborn puppy is guaranteed a loving home, dogs should be
spayed or neutered before they reach sexual maturity (6 to 16 months of age, depending on size
and breed).

The best rule to follow when breeding dogs is to be certain that they are physically
mature. This means that both the bitch and the male dog should be 18 to 24 months of age, by
which time the bitch should be in her second or third heat period. Since ovulation usually occurs
on the second day of estrus, it is highly effective to breed the bitch as soon as she is sexually
receptive to the male dog and again two days later.

The bitch is usually brought to the male dog for breeding. Courtship behavior begins with
the male dog sniffing at the bitch’s face and flank, and licking of the vulva. When ready, the
bitch presents her hindquarters to the male dog and stands still with her tail towards one side.
The male dog then clasps the flanks of the bitch with his forelegs, inserts his penis into the
vagina (intromission) and begins to thrust. The enlargement of the bulbus glandis occurs at this
time, resulting in the coital tie. With the penis firmly in place, ejaculation begins. Then with their
genitalia still “locked,” the male dog will dismount by placing both front feet to one side and
lifting one hind leg over the bitch’s back so that they are facing in opposite directions. The
enlarged bulbus glandis of the male dog prevents separation from the bitch for about 5 to 60
minutes. Do not interfere with a coital tie as injury could result. Separation occurs naturally and
both dogs usually wash themselves afterwards.

When artificial insemination (AI) is properly performed, conception rates are equal to
those attained by natural breeding. However, the American Kennel Club (AKC) has regulations
concerning the registration of dogs produced by AI. Therefore, before using this technique,
check with the AKC or the local kennel club for information about AI and registration of
puppies.

RECORD KEEPING

Pen Labels

Pens should have labels attached to them that provide the following information:

 Dog identification
 Name, location and contact numbers of researcher
 Name, location and contact numbers of staff associated with housing and care of the
animals
 Protocol numbers
 Age (Date of birth)
 Date of entry to pen

The label should be held in a protective cover that is resistant to water.

The above details plus the following should also be kept in a separate permanent record
that can be easily accessed and updated:

Husbandry Records

Husbandry records for each individual dog should be made and should include the
following:

 Detailed description including any distinguishing marks, photograph, tag number and
microchip code.
 Daily husbandry comments regarding appearances of lesions, behavioural changes
(withdrawn, increased fighting behaviour, etc).
 Daily health record (May be based on a Checklist)
 Weight record
 Previous treatments - for gastrointestinal worms, heartworm and external parasites (fleas
and ticks), vaccinations
  Treatment instructions
 Feeding instructions
 Results of checks by a veterinarian
 Results of physical examinations
 Breeding details if applicable
 Bleeding details if applicable, eg., bleeding intervals, locations (eg. jugular vein), and
amount taken
 Results of post mortems.

HYGIENE

Like humans, pets can experience skin conditions that may cause redness, itchiness, odor,
and even wounds. Fortunately, many skin conditions can be prevented with routine bathing and
grooming. Dr. Alison Diesel, clinical assistant professor at the Texas A&M College of
Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, explained the importance of pet hygiene for dogs.

Bathing and grooming

Dogs require regular bathing and grooming with a frequency that depends on their skin
and coat health. “Dogs without dermatological abnormalities benefit from a bath a couple of
times a year or when they get dirty,” Diesel said. “However, dogs with skin problems often
require more frequent bathing and sometimes benefit from specific kinds or medicated
shampoos. If dog has a skin problem, you should discuss bathing recommendations with your
veterinarian.”

Though veterinarian can examine dog’s skin during a routine check-up, sometimes skin
abnormalities can develop between appointments. If any abnormalities was noticed while bathing
or grooming dogs, then the dog should be examined by a veterinarian. Some noticeable changes
might be increased odor and dander and may result in discomfort or itching in the dog. In
addition, dogs with long hair coats are prone to matting. This can irritate the skin and result in
wounds when removed or clipped out, Diesel said. Furthermore, dogs with long hair coats are at
higher risk for y strike and acquisition of maggots hidden within the mats and under the hair
coat. These creatures can further damage the skin, causing wounds, infections, sepsis and
potentially death, Diesel explained. More severe or persistent skin conditions may benefit from
examination by a boarded specialist in veterinary dermatology.

Ear cleaning

Another important part of proper dog hygiene is keeping your their ears clean. Most dog
owners regularly bathe their pet to maintain their coat, but clean ears are just as important and
should be part dog’s normal hygiene routine. When cleaning your dog’s ears, Diesel
recommended saturating a cotton ball with a veterinarian approved ear cleanser. “Gently place
this in the dog or cat’s ear canal and massage to help deliver the solution along the length of the
canal,” Diesel said. “An additional cotton ball can be used to wipe out excess fluid after the
animal shakes their head. Q-tips should never be used to clean a dog or cat’s ears as this can lead
to potential damage of the ear canal.”

Diesel added that ear problems often manifest with scratching or rubbing at the ears,
redness, discharge, and a foul odor. Some animals, such as dogs that swim a lot, are more prone
to ear problems than others and should be monitored more closely. Additionally, Diesel said pet
owners should discuss recommendations for appropriate ear cleaning with their veterinarian Poor
hygiene in dogs can result in severe consequences if not addressed appropriately, Diesel said.

Food and water

Food and water are important to the health and welfare of any individual dog. A proper
diet is important in preventing some diseases and maintaining overall good health in dogs. For
the purpose of this document, a proper diet means: a diet with a nutritional composition generally
regarded as suitable for dogs. The nutritional composition includes the water, energy, protein,
fat, carbohydrate, mineral and vitamin content of the food. The quality of food is further affected
by how digestible and palatable the food is, and if it is free from harmful contaminants.

As a guide, dogs require 50-70mL of water per kilogram of bodyweight each day for
normal health. Dogs need more water when the weather is hot, when they are active and when
feeding puppies. Providing free access to water can be the most convenient way to meet a dog’s
requirement for water. Body condition scoring provides a means to assess if a dog’s nutritional
needs are being met.
Body Condition

A dog’s body condition reflects their health and nutritional state and can be assessed
through body condition scoring (BCS). In dogs, BCS involves observing and feeling over the
ribs, backbone, pelvis and abdomen. BCS can be used to guide the feeding of a dog; for example
reducing the quantity or energy content of food may be advised for a dog in overheavy condition.
A nine-point scale to assess body condition in dogs is recommended by the World Small Animal
Veterinary Association (WSAVA).

Behaviour and training

Good animal welfare, safety and health can only be achieved when an animal’s mental,
social, behavioral and physical needs are met.

All dogs have the need to express natural behaviours. Lacking this, a dog may become
frustrated, bored and stressed, leading to negative impacts on health and welfare and, potentially,
to problem behaviours. The opportunity to express natural behaviours is therefore essential to an
animal’s welfare.

The social needs of domestic dogs include regular, quality interaction with people. While
the presence of another animal is not a substitute for the companionship of an owner or carer, the
social needs of some dogs may be partly met through companionship and interaction with other
animals. Isolation can be very stressful for dogs and it is important to appropriately manage any
extended period when a dog is on their own.

Enrichment refers to a process for improving the environment and behavioural care of
animals. The purpose of enrichment is to reduce stress and improve welfare by providing
physical and mental stimulation, encouraging natural behaviours, and allowing animals more
control over their environment. All dogs need some form of enrichment; however this need will
depend on the animal and the circumstances in which it is kept. Providing enrichment is a
particularly important if a dog is on their own for extended periods.

Training can be a valuable enrichment activity, and age appropriate training should begin
in the home as early as possible. Advice on training should be sought from a veterinarian or
experienced dog trainer.
Exercise

Exercise is a form of environmental enrichment and is extremely important for a dog’s

health. Exercise can:

 maintain or improve fitness

 maintain healthy body condition
 allow dogs an opportunity to urinate and defecate
 provide an opportunity to express other natural behaviours
 improve confidence and help prevent problem behaviours
 provide a positive experience of being outdoors and exploring
 allow interaction with other people and animals, and the environment
allow a dog to expend physical energy

Exercise requirements vary and need to be appropriate for a dog’s individual characteristics
and health status. Veterinary advice should be sought for dogs with particular physiological or
health considerations.

DISEASES

Whether a dog is a working companion, champion show animal, hunting partner, or just a
best friend, the kindest and most responsible thing one can do for dog is to provide proper health
care. Knowing about common dog diseases and being aware of appropriate prevention and
treatment can better help you provide that care.

Common dog diseases

Some of the most common and serious dog diseases have been made less common
through vaccines; however, these diseases continue to threaten a dog that lacks proper
immunization. Puppies may be vaccinated as early as 4-6 weeks, depending on each situation
and the veterinarian’s advice. Through mother’s milk, puppies receive disease-fighting
antibodies, which last 6-16 weeks. Vaccinations then take over. Yearly boosters should be given
throughout dog’s life, including old age when dog may become more susceptible to some
diseases. The following diseases can be prevented through vaccinations.
Distemper: Canine distemper is caused by a highly contagious, airborne virus. It affects the
dog’s respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems. Early symptoms are those of a “cold” —
runny eyes and nose, fever, cough, and often diarrhea. Later in the course of disease there may
be nervous twitching, paralysis, and seizures (convulsions). There is no successful treatment.

Hepatitis (Adenovirus): Canine infectious hepatitis is a viral disease transmitted by urine, feces,
or saliva of infected animals. It affects the liver, kidney, and blood vessels. The signs are fever,
tissue swelling, and hemorrhage. Treatment may require blood transfusions and intensive care;
often it is not successful.

Leptospirosis: Canine leptospirosis is caused by bacteria spread through contact with nasal
secretions, urine, or saliva of infected animals. The disease also can infect humans. Lepto infects
the kidneys and causes fever, vomiting, diarrhea, and jaundice. Treatment requires antibiotics,
intensive care, and intravenous (IV) fluid therapy. Dogs that recover may be left with permanent
kidney damage.

Kennel Cough: Canine infectious tracheobronchitis is caused by several viruses (including

para-influenza) and bacteria (including bordetella). This highly contagious disease attacks the
respiratory system, causing a chronic, dry, hacking cough. It is generally a mild infection, but it
may progress to severe pneumonia in young pups or old dogs. Treatment can be helpful.

Parvo: Canine parvovirus is a deadly contagious viral disease that is spread by contact with
infected fecal material. The virus is difficult to kill and is easily spread. It attacks the
gastrointestinal system, causing fever, lethargy, vomiting, bloody diarrhea, and rapid
dehydration. Treatment requires intensive IV fluid and supportive therapy and has a variable rate
of success.

Corona: Canine coronavirus is a highly contagious viral infection attacking the gastrointestinal
tract. Signs are similar to parvovirus infection, except it is generally milder and more effectively
treated.

Rabies: Rabies is a viral infection of all mammals, including man. It is transmitted by the bite of
an infected animal. The virus infects the central nervous system, causing a brain infection
(encephalitis), which is always fatal. There is no treatment for dog or man after symptoms
appear. However, a vaccine is effective in preventing the disease in people if it is administered
soon after their possible exposure. Because of the serious public health threat, Indiana law
requires a rabies vaccination for all dogs.

Internal Parasites

The most common internal intestinal parasites are tapeworms and roundworms.

Tapeworms: Tapeworms are long, segmented worms. They are transmitted when a dog ingests a
larval stage of the worm found in a flea or the raw meat of small mammals. A dog that hunts on
its own or has had fleas will likely develop tapeworms. Individual tapeworm segments are easily
seen in freshly passed feces or around the anus of an infected dog. Special dewormers are
required for treatment.

Roundworms: The roundworm classification encompasses many worm types, including

ascarids, hookworms, whipworms, and heartworms. The intestinal worms are transmitted by the
ingestion of feces or feces-contaminated soil that contains worm eggs. The transmission of the
heartworm, however, requires an intermediate host such as a mosquito for propagation.
Veterinarian will perform a specialized microscopic examination of feces (for intestinal worms)
or blood (for heartworms) to determine the presence of roundworms. Treatment or prevention
with medication is effective, but it should be repeated regularly and monitored to determine if
reinfection has occurred.

External Parasites

External parasites are “bugs” (insects) that live on the outside of a dog’s body. They
include fleas, ticks, lice, flies, mosquitoes, mites, and others. They not only cause irritation, but
also may transmit diseases and cause disease in humans. Careful skin examination by a
veterinarian can detect these parasites.

Fleas: are readily seen in a dog’s haircoat. They are pencil-lead size, brown, compressed side to
side and seem to be in constant motion. They are seen most easily at the base of the tail, between
the ears, or in the short hair on the abdomen. Even if the flea is not visible, black specks of
excrement may be seen. Many treatments are available; however, the dog’s environment must be
treated just as vigorously, since the flea actually spends more time off the dog than on. Flea
control should be implemented at the earliest sign of flea infestation because fleas multiply
rapidly and a small problem becomes a major one in just a few days. While most dogs scratch
with fleas, some dogs are also allergic to flea saliva. For them, one flea bite can set off an
allergic reaction of severe skin inflammation. A flea-allergic dog will require medication to
relieve the skin inflammation in addition to flea control.

Ticks: are most prevalent in early spring and are most commonly found on outdoor dogs that get
into underbrush and wooded areas. Ticks can transmit several diseases (including Rocky
Mountain Spotted Fever) and should be removed with care. Grasp the tick near its head with a
pair of tweezers and pull away from the skin with a firm tug. Do not try to kill the tick first with
fire or chemicals. Disinfect the area with alcohol to prevent infection. Ticks should be controlled
by daily inspection and removal or, in heavy infestations, by the regular use of chemical dips.

Lice: are small, light-colored parasites that are transmitted dog to dog. They can be seen at the
base of the hair. Signs of lice infestation (pediculosis) are a rough and dry haircoat, matted hair,
and scratching and biting of the skin. Lice are effectively treated with a variety of chemicals
available from a veterinarian.

Mange mites: cause two types of mange in dogs. Sarcoptic mange is caused by the sarcoptic
mite, a microscopic parasite similar to a chigger. These mites are transmitted from dog to dog
and can also infect human skin. They burrow into the skin and cause severe itching and
consequent skin irritation and inflammation. Hair loss can be severe and generalized over the
body. Diagnosis by a veterinarian is essential, and treatment is usually quite effective. All
animals in contact with the infected dog should be treated at the same time.

Demodectic mange is caused by demodectic mites that destroy the hair follicle in which they
reside. This causes small patches of hair loss that can spread to the entire body. The initial skin
lesions may become infected and are difficult to treat. The tendency to develop demodectic
mange is thought to be hereditary. It is seen most frequently in purebred dogs. Demodectic
mange is not contagious. Diagnosis and treatment by a veterinarian are necessary; treatment is
difficult.

Ear mites: tunnel in the skin of the outer ear canal. They are easily transmitted from dog to dog
or cat to dog. They can be seen in the ear with magnification. Ear mites are suspected when dark
coffee-ground debris is present in the ears. Infestation signs are head shaking and scratching at
the ears. Left untreated, ear mites predispose the ear to secondary bacterial infection. Treatment
requires cleaning of the ear by a veterinarian and use of mite-killing insecticide. Be sure to treat
any other cats or dogs in the household.

Other Common Problems

Ear infections: are a common problem in dogs, especially those breeds with a heavy earflap.
Infections are caused by bacteria or yeast that grows in the ear when the ear’s normal
environment is changed for any reason. Ear mites, ticks, and water or grass awns in the ear can
be predisposing factors. (Grass awns are slender, bristle-like appendages on the tips of many
grasses. Dogs can get them in their ears as they run through fields). Signs of ear infections are
head shaking, pawing or digging at the ear, pain, redness, and inflammation of the ear canal, and
a foul smell in the ear. Any ear infection should be examined by a veterinarian for proper
treatment. To prevent ear problems:

• Examine your dog’s ears at least once weekly.

• Try to prevent water from getting in your dog’s ears when bathing the dog.
• Ask a veterinarian for advice on wax control and routine ear cleaning.

Dental problems: arise frequently and need attention. Drooling and/or foul odors coming from
the mouth are signals. Regular veterinary advice and maintenance programs are necessary to
prevent this disorder.

Dog anal sac problems: also occur causing considerable animal discomfort. Anal glands may
become infected, causing drainage and foul odors at times. The dog may exhibit uneasy behavior
such as rear-end scooting or nipping at the tail area. A simple procedure may relieve the animal;
in severe cases, antibiotic treatment or surgical intervention is necessary.

Regular visits to the veterinarian are important to prevent or correct serious health
problems. To provide proper care and comfort for your dog, be aware of potentially serious
situations and take preventative measures.
MAINTENANCE

• Providing a protected and clean living environment for dog, shelter from the elements
and hazards, as well as good hygiene, are basic to a quality life.
• Always keep fresh water available, maintaining optimal hydration is important for health
and energy.
• Feed a quality diet and prevent obesity, overweight humans and animals can adversely
affect health in many ways. Follow the dietary recommendations that your veterinarian
will make according to the nutritional needs of your dog, based on size, age, level of
activity and breed. Remember to provide healthy treats rather than table scraps, as
rewards.
• Examining pet by a veterinarian on a regular basis. Veterinarian will provide you with the
information on vaccination schedules, deworming and external parasite control. Keep a
copy of your pet’s vaccination records in your home or with you when you travel.
Contact your veterinarian if you believe that your pet may be ill, injured, or if something
just doesn’t seem right. Your veterinarian is the expert on keeping your dog healthy.
Work as a team with him or her.
• Provision of ample opportunities to exercise. It is essential for dog to gets the regular
exercise needed to enable it to be fit. By being in shape, dog will be more capable of
participating in the activities that it enjoys.
• Communicate with dog and develop a relationship. Dogs are social creatures and they
need to interact with their owner. Quality time will help to know your dog and understand
particular needs that it might have, as well enhance your ability to recognize early signs
of an illness that could be developing. In addition, time spent in developing a relationship
will help prevent many undesirable behavioral patterns.
• Training dog to follow the simple commands. Puppy and dog training classes can be very
helpful. The better the dog is at following basic and necessary commands, the greater the
chances of that dog living a safe and long life.
• Practice reproductive control. If you do not intend to create puppies, spaying or neutering
is a certain option. If you plan to breed your dog or are opposed to spaying and neutering
for other reasons, take appropriate measures to prevent mismatings. Consult with your
veterinarian in regard to other options that are available.
 • Dental care is very important. Many breeds are prone to gum disease, which can have
serious implications. Infection resulting from this condition leads to premature tooth loss,
and can commonly cause infections in major organs, including the heart valves.
• Grooming and nail trimming. Long coated dogs are prone to developing Matts and ice
balls in their hair. Overgrown nails are common in elderly dogs and can make it more
difficult for them to walk. In addition, such nails are much more prone to breaking, which
can be quite painful.

Breed Maintenance and Improvement Requires

 A large or expanding breed population

 Avoidance of the popular sire syndrome
 Avoidance of extreme phenotypes that can produce disease liability
 Monitoring of health issues in the breed
 Constant selection for quality and health