[TaylorWoods]

Hi there

I am hoping for some good, honest advice. I am still in my research stages and I have found myself a great mentor. The breeder who bred my 2 dogs will be assisting me when I am ready. Not only that but I will be assisting her with her next whelp to help me get a better understanding of what could go right and wrong in a whelp.

My female is almost due for her next heat. She will be going to see the vet for a pelvic xray to determine how well she will be able to whelp as well as tests for diseases etc.

I grew up on a farm often assisting in various births but yet this breed is a huge challenge as we all know. And I am not willing to put my female in danger.

She weighs about 2.5kgs or 5.5lbs and my male is slightly larger at about 3kgs or 6lbs. They are due for a final weigh in this weekend. My primary concern is that he will produce large puppies - too big for her to free whelp. She comes from a line of females who have had no problems at all giving birth. His lines are much the same and his mother had clean whelps.

His father was small and his mom was larger (within the standard) because the breeder prefers a larger, stronger female to produce strong pups. I bought him specifically based on his weight but as we all know you can never guess their adult weight! my famle is a smaller framed girl whereas he is much stronger and thicker set. Size wise they look the same, he just weighs more because of his build and his appetite! but she has put on nice weight and filled out to my liking and he has slimmed down and is as fit as a fiddle.

My breeder told me that the size of the male is not necessarily a deciding factor in breeding. He might produce small puppies. I just want another opinion. What are the important things to look for in his lines? I have good access to this information so if I know what im looking for it will help.

I have access to another male smaller than my female but I dont know his lines or history so im not happy about that.

I know I am a first time breeder, often stepping on older breeders toes, but I would appreciate some advice before making any decisions so that I know in my heart and mind that I am doing things right - if not then i dont ever do it.