Dog Breeding Volunteer

Could you look after an amazing AADI Brood?

We are actively seeking volunteers who can offer a loving home to a Brood from Autism Assistance Dogs Ireland, providing support as she plays a crucial role in nurturing the next generation of assistance dogs.

What does the role involve?

Being a Dog Breeding volunteer means that you will get a well-socialised dog to live with you as part of your family, with all the support, guidance and advice you need to continue her training.

You will have the opportunity to raise a litter of puppies, with a member of our breeding team on hand every step of the way to give you all of the support and guidance you need (you don’t need any previous experience!)

Brood volunteer FAQs

Deciding to become a Brood volunteer for Autism Assistance Dogs Ireland is not a decision to be made lightly as it takes time, effort and commitment to ensure both brood and puppies can be given the care and attention they require.

Below are some of the most frequently asked questions we receive from those wishing to become a Brood Bitch Holder, or are unsure if the opportunity is quite right for their lifestyle.

If you have any other questions, please email us at elaine@aadi.ie

How old will be the Brood be when she comes to live with us?

The brood will be around 14 – 16 months old.

Which breeds of dogs do you use on your breeding programme?

We mainly use Labradors, Golden Retrievers and crosses of these two breeds.

Can I take the Brood to work with me if I work part time?

This can be possible, but will depend on the environment you work in. However, once the bitch has birthed the litter, she must stay at home to care for the puppies.

Can we have a Brood if we have young children?

As with all of our Brood volunteers, you will need to go through an application process which will include a home visit to assess the suitability. However, many people that have young families take on a Brood with no problems.

Am I able to have other dogs at home?

Brood can live happily with other dogs, although this will be assessed on a case by case basis. We would not place a Brood with an entire male dog.

Can I have a Brood Bitch if I’ve never kept a dog before?

Yes – our breeding team will provide you with all the advice and guidance you need for looking after both brood and puppies.

Where are the puppies born?

Puppies will be born in your home. You will need to have a suitable space within the home for the birth and puppy rearing. We will provide you with the requirements so that we can ensure there is sufficient space.

How many puppies will there be in a litter?

This can depend. On average, a bitch will birth 6-7 puppies but it can be up to 10-12.

How long is a ‘season’?

Seasons usually last for around 21 days.