subject: What You Need To Know About Canine Reproduction [print this page] When it comes to the wildlife world, many of us take for granted that reproduction is a "natural" process, requiring little or no human intervention. Unfortunately, this ignorant attitude is the underlying cause of the deaths of many cats and dogs--and their offspring.
Even some professional breeders have made this mistake, but many of these deaths are preventable. If you plan on breeding your dogs or you already have a pregnant dam in your possession, then you don't want to miss this information!
First off, let me just say that it is unwise to purposefully breed your dogs unless: 1. They are of the same breed; 2. They are both of champion lines that have been cleared of all genetic diseases; 3. You have done extensive research and have an experienced mentor.
I say all this because anything less will brand you as a "backyard breeder," and you may be unknowingly put unhealthy pups on the market. You may have both male and female dogs fixed by about four months of age, which is wise, as it eliminates any possibility of diseases related to the reproductive organs.
With that being said, you should be aware that dogs can whelp anywhere from one to 14 pups, with, of course, toy dogs being on the side of fewer offspring and the largest breeds bearing the most. Many breeders believe the number of pups and the timing of each can be affected by the frequency of breeding during the dam's heat cycle, so talk to your veterinarian and mentor to get some advice as this pertains to your dogs.
Breeding can be somewhat perilous even for healthy dams. Any intact female can be susceptible to infection, especially after the period of heat. Once pregnancy occurs, gestation lasts about two months. You need to be present for the whelping to make sure that it is proceeding as it should. Make sure you have an emergency contact for your vet or have established a rapport with a veterinary hospital that knows your dam's approximate due date so they can expect you in case of emergency.
There are a few breeds that are more prone to the need for a C-section. English bulldogs, for example, cannot give birth naturally, so you will need to discuss the pups' delivery with your vet. Welsh corgis typically can whelp their pups on their own, but their anatomy can cause complications, making emergency intervention necessary at times. The most important thing, therefore, for you and your dog is to keep up communication with your vet during all stages of breeding!
