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Originally Posted by wolflover  Miley's just 4 pounds, and the breeder said she probably wouldnt let us mate her with Max if she didn't have such thick hips (apparently she has thick hips). |
I certainly hope you continue to do your research. There is lots of info you should have researched before this mating, especially the minimum recommended breeding size for Yorkies. For your first time breeding, you are starting out with a situation that has the potential for many risks and complications.
At 4 pounds, Miley is considered too small for breeding. Most breeders use 5 pounds as a minimum safe breeding weight, but even then, it depends on structure. What you're looking for is enough clearance in the pelvic area for a pup's head to pass through. There should be some wiggle room for your thumb when placed between the pelvic bones. Actually, you have to consider that many pups are born breach so then you have the rear end coming first.
Aside from the stresses on a small girl carrying a litter, there is a higher risk of a c-section being necessary. Or, she could quit pushing before she's done and it's off to the vet's you go, assuming you recognize her distress.
You'll also need to be prepared to hand feed babies if necessary, and the chances of that is higher if she has very small babies. Even when healthy, those born in the 2 ounce range often are too small to latch on and nurse.
There's much more to be considered, but the point I'm trying to make is that breeding Yorkies can be challenging, even in a textbook case. Miley's pregnancy wouldn't be considered textbook, but instead risky, based on her size. That's a lot to contend with for a first time breeder and a lot of risk to expose your Miley to.
Having her spayed now would be the safest thing for Miley. I have a little girl that is about Miley's size. I had her spayed once it was obvious she would never make breeding size and she's now my House Princess. I could not, in good conscience, do anything else.