Mating - Page 1

Hello,

Just wondering, many resources state that a female dog should be breed every two years once she is 24 month, however, I've seen breeder mate their dogs twice a year. Is there a messure of when to mate dogs and how many times to breed them?

thanks,

Mike

They really shouldn't be bred but once a year.  The Shepherds will have a litter, and usually go in heat about 4 months after they had their litter, like clockwork.   Some people will breed their dogs once a year, some will breed back to back and then give them a few seasons off. Some people will just breed them every heat just so they can make get money in their wallet. But yes, they should not be bred until 24 months.

Is there any kind of test (clinical) that would confirm that the dog is ready for breeding or otherwise?

Progesterone testing will tell you if they are ready. I always start that testing on the 7th day after they start their heat cycle, and do it every other day afterwards to see if they are ready. My female wasn't ready her last time until her 12th day.

Well, I think my question wasn't clearly stated. What I meant is after whelping, the dog will have to sort of recover and build up again.

Is there any kind of test that would confirm that the dog is in perfect health to carry a successful pregnancy?

Mike -

Your best bet is to talk to a canine reproduction specialist.  They can do a checkup on your female to ensure she is healthy and ready to breed again.

oh ok, I thought you meant when they are ready to be bred during their heat cycle, I didn't know you meant when they are healthy enough to be bred.

not sure if this is a double post.

as others have said, go see a good repro vet. if the dog is healthy and has no problems carrying pregnancy and nursing pups then there is no reason they can't have multiple litters in a row(3)

some repro vets believe its actually healthier for the dog. of course many factors play into it, size of litters being one. how often the bitch cycles being another