Actually weight doesn't have as much to do with ability to whelp pups as the shape of the pelvis does. The pelvic bone, under the anus, should feel like a wide, shallow U. If it's a narrow V shape pups will have a hard time passing through. You also have to consider the number of pups conceived. If your small bitch comes from a line of large bitches that have large litters and she herself conceives 4-7 pups her uterus could rupture before she can carry the pups to full term. And if the uterus gets so stretched out that it can't contract then again, she won't be able to push the pups out.
I would never suggest breeding a small bitch. But no matter what size the bitch is do check the shape of the pelvis. You can breed a 20# yorkie but if she has a narrow pelvis she won't be able to free whelp puppies. |