Quote:
Originally Posted by Ladyhawk  The truth is we're talking about size and not truly weight per say. When you are looking at whether a bitch should be able to free whelp the average size newborn yorkie or not you are looking for a pernium ( the space between the anus and the vulva) that measures about the size of the span of three fingers ( about 2 1/2 inches). The space between the pelvic bones should measure 2 fingers wide or about 2 inches. These minimum requirements usually correspond with the size of the average 5 pound yorkie. Breeding a bitch that is smaller than this not only risks her life because of c-sections and possible complications but increases the chance that her offspring will be too small in the pelvis to free whelp as well continuing the problem. |
Well said!
That is so true about size and not weight. For example, Lola came to me overfed and very chubby. She weighed 6.5 lbs, but has a smaller frame than Maddie (who is 5 lbs). Now, I'm slowly working down her weight and she's right under 6 at this point...but still has a long way to go. The vet said she SHOULD weigh between 4.5 and 5 lbs. That is the CUTOFF for breeding for me. It made me a little uncomfortable at first, but she has a wide space between the pelvic bones and a solid structure. Anyways, the point is, it has much more to do with structure than with weight in these smaller breeds.