5 Reasons Why It’s Okay To Be An Honest Dog Breeder
I used to feel like I was selling kidneys on the black market. It was that look I often received when I told people I was a dog breeder. I work with a lot of dog breeders, new and seasoned.
Myth Buster
Popular Myth:
Professional puppy pictures are a waste of money!
In the world of dog breeding, the presentation of your puppies can be just as important as their pedigree. A prevalent myth within our community suggests that investing in professional puppy pictures is a frivolous expense. Today, we aim to debunk this myth by uncovering the multifaceted value that high-quality pictures brings to breeders, buyers, and the puppies themselves.
Written By: The Dog Journal
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The Importance of First Impressions
First impressions are crucial in the digital age, where your puppies’ photos can reach a global audience in seconds. Professional pictures stand out for their ability to capture the true essence, personality, and breed-specific characteristics of each puppy. These first impressions can significantly impact a buyer’s decision-making process, often determining whether they feel an emotional connection to the puppy.
Quality Equals Credibility
Professional photography lends credibility to your breeding program. High-quality pictures reflect a commitment to excellence, suggesting that the same level of care and attention is applied to every aspect of your breeding practices. This perception of professionalism can enhance your reputation, attracting more serious inquiries and potentially commanding higher prices for your puppies.
Highlighting Unique Features
Each breed has unique features and characteristics that prospective owners might be looking for. A professional photographer, with their expertise in lighting, composition, and editing, can highlight these attributes in ways that amateur pictures simply cannot. Whether it’s the silky coat of a Spaniel, the distinctive markings of a Dalmatian, or the playful demeanor of a Labrador Retriever, professional pictures capture these details in stunning clarity.
Memories to Cherish
For many new puppy owners, the decision to welcome a new member into their home is a momentous occasion. Professional pictures provide them with a timeless keepsake of their pet’s early days. These pictures hold sentimental value, capturing a moment in time that will never come again.
Marketing and Branding
For breeders, puppies are not just pets; they are part of a carefully curated breeding program aimed at improving the breed and sharing that joy with others. Professional pictures can be used across various marketing materials, including websites, social media, and printed brochures, helping to establish a strong, recognizable brand identity.
Cost Versus Value
While it’s true that professional photography involves an upfront cost, the return on investment can be significant. Better imagery can lead to quicker sales, higher prices, and a stronger brand, not to mention the invaluable emotional connection it can foster between your puppies and their potential owners.
Snapshot Pictures Have Their Place
While the merits of professional photography are undeniable, it’s important to appreciate the significant role that snapshot pictures play in selling your puppies. These candid shots, often taken in the spur of the moment, can capture the unguarded, whimsical moments of a puppies’ live that professional setups might not. These images are particularly valuable when shared with prospective buyers, as they reveal the puppies’ daily routines and unique playful behaviors. Sharing such moments can foster a stronger emotional bond between potential owners and the puppies, enriching the connection before they even meet.
Conclusion
The belief that professional puppy photos are a waste of money is a myth that fails to recognize the comprehensive benefits they provide. From enhancing first impressions to building a reputable brand, the value of these pictures extends far beyond their aesthetic appeal. In the competitive world of dog breeding, professional puppy pictures are not just a luxury; they are an essential tool for success.
Looking For More To Read?
Customer Survey: Issue 6
Now, in this issue, we’re going to see if the people that support the program would actually pay more or choose a puppy coming from a program like this over one that does not. Please remember that there are lots of other good reasons to keep becoming more ethical and stepping up our game, but in this article we are talking only about the monetary gain that can happen.
Purdue University: Setting Up A Welfare-Friendly Whelping Area
Before giving birth, dogs naturally seek out
a place to nest. Support your dog’s instincts by
providing a whelping area that feels safe and
comfortable. A good whelping box set up reduces
stress for your dam so she can focus on caring for
her puppies.