Bryan Hendrix ©AKC

Some breeders have found peace of mind and that they can save work and, most importantly, save puppies by installing security cameras in their kennels.

When a dam’s due date approaches, the cameras allow breeders to keep a close eye on the bitch, watching her on televisions or monitors in the comfort of their homes. The monitors save going back and forth to check on the dogs and allow breeders to get a more accurate idea of how close the dam may be to whelping.

“My system is connected to the cable, so I can watch a bitch on certain UHF channels from any television in my home,” said Janet Lange, a miniature Poodle and German Shepherd Dog breeder. “I can see whether she’s having restless nights or starting to dig, and I don’t have to sleep in the kennel to keep an eye on her.”

Lange, who has a state-of-the-art kennel in Wentzville, Mo, contracted a local company to install cameras in her kennel’s three whelping stalls and in the grooming room.

“It gives me peace of mind to know I can check on one without walking to the kennel and disturbing all the dogs,” Lange added.

“You can turn on the TV at all hours of the night and watch them,” Lange said. “Besides being helpful, it’s fun just to watch. You think the dogs are asleep, but you’ll turn on the TV and see them playing with their toys.”

After puppies are born, the cameras help Lange feel comfortable moving the puppies from the house to the kennel as soon as is adequate.

“I can watch them and make sure they’re alright while getting the puppies in the kennel early on and getting their socialization started.”

While Lange’s set-up is cutting-edge in kennel design, breeders can find camera-and-receiver sets (excluding the monitor) that can be connected to a television for sale starting in the $100-range. It’s a good idea to research and comparison shop.