Animal Breeder
Animal breeders are responsible for breeding animals based on desirable traits and characteristics. They ensure the well-being, health and comfort of the animals and keep detailed records of their diet, physical conditions and behavior. Animal breeders have a strong understanding of animal genetics and are involved across all stages of animals’ lives.
What Responsibilities Will I Have?
- Select and breed animals based on genetics, physical characteristics and expected progeny differences
- Facilitate breeding and assist with births
- Keep a record of animal pedigrees and breeding history
- Arrange for the sale of animals and eggs to hospitals, research centers, pet shops and food processing facilities
- Monitor animals for symptoms of illness or injury
- Perform artificial insemination (AI) to impregnate female animals in a controlled environment
- Clean and maintain animal living spaces
- Adjust controls to maintain specific building temperatures
- Give basic obedience training to animals when necessary
- Brand, tattoo or tag animals for identification
- Maintain farm records, such as mortality, individual flock and herd records, maintenance schedules, estimated operating costs, and monitoring of animal health and feeding requirements
- Give animals medications and vaccines
- Follow all municipal, state and federal regulations
- Sell animals to interested parties
- Record animal characteristics such as weight, growth and diet
- Maintain a calm and caring demeanor to effectively work with and comfort animals
- Bathe animals, trim nails, clip hair and attend to other grooming needs
Recommended High School Courses:
- agricultural education, especially animal science
- biology
- chemistry
- mathematics
- computer skills
Education/Training Required:
A high school diploma is required to become an animal breeder. Some states require breeders to be registered with the state. Many animal breeders also have an associate degree in animal science, animal husbandry, genetics or a related field. Higher degrees may be necessary for positions that require more sophisticated genetic planning.
