Dog Breeding
Dog Breeding and Birth Guide: Information on breeding your dog and what to expect when a female dog gives birth.
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While dogs may seem to have a menstrual cycle that is very similar to a woman’s menstrual cycle, dogs do not experience an actual menstrual cycle. Instead, dogs have what is called an Estrus Cycle (or Heat Cycle), and the estrus cycle has its own unique phases. Sexually mature female dogs will go through a heat cycle once, or more commonly, twice a year. Each cycle consists of four stages: proestrus, estrus, diestrus, and anestrusThe
Purebred dogs are only bred to others of their breed so that the puppies can be registered as purebreds. Dog breeders take great pride in planning their offspring carefully so that they represent the very finest specimen of the breed. Defined physical traits called “points of conformation” are used to judge dogs in shows, and the champions are in high demand for breeding programs to make the next generation of pups the very best. All
Basic nutritional requirements of a pregnant dog include increased levels of protein, fat, and minerals in the diet. While it may be tempting to give nutritional supplements or vitamins to a pregnant dog, it is best for the dog to gain all of her extra nutritional requirements through her diet.A maintenance diet for an adult dog should include 18 percent protein and 5 percent fat. However, a pregnant dog requires a diet that is approximately
The birthing process for a dog is separated into two distinct phases which occur shortly after the dog begins to show signs that she will be going into labor soon. This process may last up to 16 hours and will normally occur 56 to 69 days after mating.Before a dog goes into the first stage of labor, her body temperature will drop and she may exhibit behavioral changes. A dog’s normal temperature is between 101
If you have decided to breed your dog, and you are looking for the right breeding program for your dog, these helpful guidelines will help you to choose a responsible breeding program for your dog.Any responsible breeding program will require complete medical check-ups for all breeding pairs. These check-ups include blood tests, x-rays, and tests for sexually transmitted diseases. All dogs involved in the breeding program should have a well documented medical history, and preferably
Choosing the right dogs to breed involves gathering information on the male and female dog’s history, breed type, and possible medical concerns. Additional considerations include behavioral traits, physical soundness, and an evaluation of reproductive organs and systems.A thorough medical history should be gathered and evaluated before dogs are bred. Dogs should be examined for any present congenital deformities (for example, an overshot jaw or indication of cervical disc disease) and their familial history should be
Mating for dogs is normally a naturally occurring process, but sometimes a little assistance is needed to help young or inexperienced dogs successfully mate. Timing and environmental considerations will help to create an atmosphere conducive to mating as well.Male dogs should not mate until they are at least one year old, and female dogs should not mate until they are on their second or third heat cycle at approximately one to one and half years
Once a dog has puppies, breast feeding the puppies is the best way to ensure that the puppies are receiving all of their nutritional requirements. While there are risks that can occur when a dog breast feeds her litter, the benefits of breast feeding far outweigh the risks.While over the counter puppy formulas are created to provide complete nutrition to a puppy, a puppy’s sensitive digestive system cannot always adjust to formulas. Many puppies that