Becoming a foster carer
Breeders sometimes want the option of breeding dogs that do not live at home. When a puppy is sold with breeding rights, it’s called placing the dog with a foster carer. Being a foster carer means looking after a puppy owned by the breeder. There are a few different foster carer agreements that the breeder can use, and the most common ones are drawn up by the Swedish Kennel Club (SKK).
Full foster care
In this agreement, the puppy buyer doesn’t pay for the puppy but enters into an agreement with the breeder, who then has the option of taking two litters from a female dog, with at least one live puppy in each litter, for a maximum of five years or until the dog turns seven. The dog is then signed over to the foster carer. For male dogs, the number of litters is agreed upon, up to a maximum of six litters with at least one live puppy per litter, for a maximum of five years or until the male reaches the age of seven.
Half foster care
Half foster care works exactly the same as full foster care, but the obligations of the breeder and the foster carer are halved. This means the foster carer pays a reduced price for the puppy, and the breeder has the right to take one litter of puppies from the female dog. For male dogs, the breeder is usually entitled to three matings. The dog is then transferred to the foster carer.
What does it mean for you as a foster carer?
You must follow the agreement, which includes giving the breeder the right to mate your dog. This means that if you’re the foster carer for a female dog, you must hand her over when it’s time for her to give birth. This means she'll be with the breeder for a minimum of 10 weeks per litter. The breeder also has the right to participate in shows, trials, and competitions with your dog.
Who pays for insurance?
It’s usually the foster carer who pays for any costs associated with the dog, including insurance, but this can vary. It’s important to write into the contract what applies to the payment of both insurance and other costs.
