The AKC site states this:
Keep in mind that AKC Rules do not allow, except with special documentation, the registration of a litter out of a dam less than 8 months or more than 12 years of age at the time of mating, or by a sire less than 7 months or more than 12 years of age at the time of mating.
So that gives you a general look at the ages AKC accepts, but I know many breeders that don't breed their dam until their 2nd heat cycle or 2 years of age, and they don't breed their males until after they are at least a year old. I know of a paticular breeder that used her male stud till he was 10, then she retired him. Unfortunatly not to long after that he was diagnosed with cancer and died.
I personally don't breed my dam's during their first heat, and I wait till the male is over a year of age. But genenrally I like to wait till they have both reached the age of 2. |