A dam is a female parent of a litter of puppies. Specifically, the term refers to:
- Breeding female: A bitch (intact female dog) used for the purpose of breeding and producing offspring.
- Mother of a litter: When a female dog gives birth to puppies, she is the dam of that particular litter.
The dam’s role is crucial in the breeding process and the development of her offspring. She contributes half of the genetic makeup to her puppies and provides them with nourishment, care, and initial socialization during the critical early weeks of life.
In breeding programs, the selection of the dam is an important consideration, as her qualities, temperament, health, and conformation will be passed on to the litter. Reputable breeders carefully evaluate potential dams before breeding to ensure they meet the desired criteria for their breed.
Examples: A kennel may have several dams in their breeding program, each with their own record of litters produced.
Related Terms: Bitch, Breeding, Sire, Litter, Whelping, Progeny, Pedigree, Lineage.
