Animal Breeder

Animal Technician, Artificial Insemination Technician (AI Technician), Breeder, Dog Breeder
Job Description

An Animal Breeder selects and breeds animals according to characteristics and genealogy to produce offspring with desired traits. This profession involves a deep understanding of genetics, animal science, and breeding practices to enhance and preserve animal qualities.

Typical Preparation

Education: High school diploma or equivalent

Years in related career: None

On-the-job training: Short-term

Outlook

Projected Growth: 2.1% (average)

Annual job openings: 1 200

Direct AI exposure: 3% of tasks

Potential AI exposure: 12% of tasks

Income data is from Employment and Social Development Canada's 2025 wage tables. The closest match for this career in Canada’s occupational classification system is Managers in Agriculture. According to the wage tables, average income is $50K per year.
Bottom 10%Bottom 25%Median (average)Top 25%Top 10%
$35K
per year
$42K
per year
$50K
per year
$62K
per year
$80K
per year
Compared to other careers: Median is $15K below the national average.

What does an Animal Breeder do?

Intro video

(less than 2 minutes)

Duties

  • Selects and pairs animals for breeding based on genealogy, characteristics, and health.
  • Monitors animal health and wellbeing, including providing proper nutrition and veterinary care.
  • Maintains breeding records and registers animals, if applicable.
  • Assists with the birthing process and cares for newborns.
  • Markets and sells animals to customers or other breeders.

Work environment

Animal Breeders typically work on farms, ranches, breeding facilities, or kennels, depending on the type of animals they specialize in. The environment is hands-on and often requires physical labor, with a significant amount of time spent outdoors or in animal housing facilities.

Typical Schedule

Areas of specialization

  • Equine Breeding: Specializing in breeding horses for racing, sport, or work.
  • Canine Breeding: Focusing on breeding dogs, often for specific traits or pedigree.
  • Livestock Breeding: Breeding farm animals like cattle, pigs, and sheep for agriculture.
  • Exotic Animal Breeding: Working with exotic or non-traditional animals, often for conservation or specialty markets.
  • Poultry Breeding: Focusing on breeding chickens, ducks, and other poultry for meat or egg production.

Description

Animal Breeding is a field that combines knowledge of genetics, animal behavior, and veterinary science. Breeders must understand the principles of heredity and genetics to make informed decisions about mating pairs to produce healthy, high-quality offspring. This requires not only a theoretical understanding but also practical skills in handling and caring for animals.

Breeders play a crucial role in the agriculture industry, enhancing animal traits for better productivity, and in the pet industry, focusing on the health and temperament of animals. They must stay updated with advances in animal science and adapt to changes in market demands or breeding techniques. Animal breeders often collaborate with veterinarians, animal scientists, and other professionals to ensure the best outcomes.

Ethics and welfare are integral parts of this profession. Breeders must ensure that their practices are humane and sustainable, adhering to ethical breeding standards and animal welfare laws. This includes providing adequate living conditions, healthcare, and nutrition to all animals under their care.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

You might make a good Animal Breeder if you are...

Pros:

  • Emotional fulfillment from working with and caring for animals.
  • Potential to contribute to important genetic research and conservation efforts.
  • Variety in daily tasks and the opportunity to work in a natural setting.

Cons:

  • Physical demands and potential for long, irregular hours.
  • Emotional challenges associated with animal care, including dealing with illness or loss.
  • Economic variability, as income can depend on market demands and breeding success.

How to become an Animal Breeder

Typical education

Formal education requirements vary; some breeders learn through hands-on experience, while others pursue post-secondary education in animal science or a related field, typically requiring 2-4 years of college.

High school preparation

Courses:

  • Biology and Life Sciences for a fundamental understanding of genetics and animal physiology.
  • Agriculture classes, if available, to gain basic knowledge about animal care and farming.
  • Business Studies to learn about managing a breeding operation as a business.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

  • Join 4-H clubs or other youth agriculture programs to gain hands-on experience with animals.
  • Volunteer at animal shelters, farms, or stables to learn about animal care.
  • Participate in science fairs or projects related to biology or animal science.
  • Attend agricultural fairs, livestock shows, or judging competitions to build industry knowledge and practical skills.

Preparation after high school

  • Pursue a college diploma or bachelor's degree in Animal Science, Agriculture, Biology, or a related field to build knowledge of genetics, reproduction, and animal health.
  • Seek internships or apprenticeships with experienced breeders or in animal-related industries.
  • Attend workshops and seminars on breeding, genetics, and animal care.
  • Learn record-keeping, business management, and biosecurity practices, which are important for operating or supporting a breeding operation.

More resources

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