Quote:
Originally Posted by maggiesmom_2007  I decided to start a discussion on the age of a breeding female.
Here goes, I know alot of breeders have the book "The Joy of Breeding your own show dog" Well I was reading it again for the hundredth time and came across something very interesting. On page 95 it says this. " The Average Bitch can safely be bred every other season until seven or eight years of age." Now I know that it's been said numerous times that a bitch should not be bred after the age of 5 years. So what are your thoughts on this. |
Not thoughts but information gathered from reputable breeders. Breeding retirement age for bitches is on the average between the age of 5 and 6 years of age. Breeding beyond this age increases the potential of whelping problems, either with the bitch or pups. As in humans; canine females as they age the reproductive organs do too.
As far as breeding every Season; some vets are of the opinion/knowledge that the only healthy uterus is a pregnant one. However, a blanket statement of Bitch can be safely bred every other season until the age of 8 is a bit general.
Each bitch's health should be taken in to consideration prior to each breeding. The other thing that should be taken into consideration is the breed of the dog.