Animal Breeders
Select and breed animals according to their genealogy, characteristics, and offspring. May require knowledge of artificial insemination techniques and equipment use. May involve keeping records on heats, birth intervals, or pedigree.
Common Job Titles
- Animal Technician
- Artificial Insemination Technician (AI Technician)
- Breeder
- Dog Breeder
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- KnowledgeEvaluate animal genealogy, physical characteristics, and genetic traits to make breeding selection decisions that optimize offspring quality and genetic diversity.Proficient
- Hands-onPerform artificial insemination procedures using specialized equipment including artificial vaginas, collection containers, and insemination syringes.Developing
- KnowledgeAnalyze reproductive health indicators and heat cycles using pregnancy testing kits, hormone tests, and ultrasound equipment to optimize breeding timing.Developing
- Hands-onOperate laboratory equipment including microscopes, centrifuges, and water baths to assess semen quality and viability for breeding programs.Developing
- KnowledgeOrganize comprehensive breeding records including pedigrees, birth intervals, and genetic documentation using database software and record-keeping systems to maintain program integrity.Developing
- Hands-onExecute animal identification procedures including microchipping, ear tagging, and tattooing following industry protocols to ensure accurate tracking and record linkage.Developing
- KnowledgeApply biological and genetic principles when developing breeding strategies that address hereditary traits, genetic disorders, and desired characteristics.Developing
- Hands-onHandle cryogenic storage systems and liquid nitrogen tanks to preserve genetic material while maintaining strict safety protocols.Developing
- MindsetEngage with clients and stakeholders to communicate breeding program goals, explain genetic outcomes, and provide consultation on animal selection.Developing
- KnowledgeMonitor animal health, behavior, and reproductive status through continuous observation and use of diagnostic tools to identify optimal breeding conditions.Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Animal Breeders (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
1,730
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $37,130. 25th percentile: U.S. $43,310. 50th percentile: U.S. $52,000. 75th percentile: U.S. $59,630. 90th percentile: U.S. $89,970. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
- U.S.
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $37,130 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $89,970 |
| Workers on average earn | $56,150 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Customer and Personal Service4.2/5
- Sales and Marketing3.9/5
- Administration and Management3.5/5
- Biology3.3/5
- Mathematics3.2/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
- Adobe Acrobat
- Adobe Creative Cloud software
- Adobe Illustrator
- Adobe InDesign
- Adobe Photoshop
- Microsoft Access
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft SharePoint
- Microsoft Windows
- Microsoft Word
Technology Skills
- Breedtrak
- Email software
- KinTraks
- Microsoft Internet Explorer
- Questionmark Perception
- Respondus
- Reudink Software ZooEasy
- VSN International GenStat
Tools & Equipment
- Agar plates
- Animal blood analyzers
- Animal blood collection syringes
- Animal pregnancy testing kits
- Animal vaccination syringes
- Artificial insemination syringes
- Artificial vaginas
- Automated feed batch mixers