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The ideal dog breeding age is a subject of debate for many. Some believe that breeding dogs directly after they start going into heat is perfectly fine. However, for the sake of the dog’s health and the health of her future puppies, it isn’t a good idea to start so young. Like people, dogs reach sexual maturity faster than they do physical maturity. In order to increase your chances of maintaining consistent, healthy litters, waiting until the dog reaches physical maturity is the best way to go.

However, the age for physical maturity varies from dog to dog. For example, a smaller breed may reach their dog breeding age in a mere six months, while a larger species may reach the dog breeding age in two or three years. In addition to this, you should consider the individual condition of the dog before considering breeding. Just because the dog has reached physical and sexual maturity doesn’t mean she is necessarily ready to have puppies.

You can determine whether or not your dog is at the prime condition for bearing puppies by visiting your vet. There, you can arrange for a complete physical. Your vet will gladly answer any questions you may have. If you show your pet regularly in dog shows and competitions, having your dog examined by a professional judge will help enormously in finding an ideal mate, as your dog will have certification to back up the fact that she is ready for mating. However, this isn’t a necessary step in breeding your dog; in most cases, a veterinarian’s signature will be more than enough.

The dog breeding age also depends on when the dog goes into heat. Most species enter heat twice throughout the year. Studies show that your dog will reach maximum fertility in the two weeks after her menstrual cycle ends. You should never exceed two litters per year, lest you strain the mother excessively.

When will your dog be past the prime dog breeding age? It is generally recommended that you should stop breeding your dog after around six years of age. Any more than that puts the health of the dog and her puppies at risk. You should also take into consideration any physical or mental strain the dog may be going through. If your veterinarian recommends that your dog stop having puppies for whatever reason, it is generally a good idea to stop breeding at that point.

In ensuring that your dog is at a prime dog breeding age, you are doing more than just breeding with her health and happiness in mind. You are also ensuring that her puppies are born healthy and strong. Learn more today about how dog breeding can benefit you.

Related posts:

1. Breeding female dog
2. Breeding dogs
3. Breeding Dogs Information
4. Breeding poodles
5. Are you planning on breeding stud dog?

This entry was posted on Sunday, November 22nd, 2009 at 12:58 pm and is filed under Family and Home Life, Hobbies and Activities, Pets and Animals, Society Issues. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.