Making sure the dog is ready is the first step to successfully breeding one's dog. The rules of the thumb are (1) your dog should be at least 18 months old and (2) your dog should have gone through 2 heat cycles. Never breed your dog on her first or second heat as her eggs are still immature. As part of the breeding preparation, bring your dog to a vet to make sure she is in perfect medical condition. After you have determined your dog is ready, wait for her next heat cycle. Watch for the swelling of her vulva, increase in urination, and then bleeding - these are the telltale signs of a dog being in heat.

Some dogs also exhibit behavioral changes such humping other dams, a table, or your leg. Your dog may even lick herself a lot. This is the first part of the heat cycle and lasts about a week. During this stage, she will not allow any dog near her. Wait for 6 to 8 days before bringing in a male dog.

The second part of the heat cycle, which can last anywhere from 4 to 21 days, is when she will accept a male dog and breed. The male dog should have passed all physical health checks, too. If the female dog presents herself to the male dog, that means she's ready for mating. Some breeders will allows the dogs to mate every day, while some allow mating to take place 2 to 3 times only.