Animal breeders select and breed livestock and pets.

Animal breeders raise livestock used to produce products such as milk, wool, and meat. They work to improve selected characteristics in animals. Examples may include a cow that produces more milk or a hog that fattens faster. Breeders also raise animals to develop new breeds or maintain standards of existing breeds.

Animal breeders research the parents of the animals before breeding to make sure the offspring will have the desired characteristics. Breeders keep records of which animals were bred and what their offspring were like. These records are an animal's pedigree.

Breeders spend a lot of time taking care of animals. They examine animals to make sure they are healthy. They may treat sick animals themselves or call a veterinarian. They feed and water their animals and clean their quarters. They also build hutches, pens, and fenced yards for their animals. Breeders who have large businesses may spend less time taking care of animals. Instead, they hire and supervise animal caretakers.

Breeders sell the animals they raise. They exhibit some animals at shows in order to attract buyers. They sell others through auctions, or directly to hospitals, research centers, and pet shops.

In addition to pedigree records, breeders maintain other types of records. They keep track of business expenses and income. Breeders may keep records of an animal's growth rate, what it is fed, and any medicine it receives.