Dog Breeding Age . A larger breed pup might age a bit slow during the first few years but almost nears middle age by 5. The optimal breeding day for litter size is two days post-ovulation as determined by your veterinarian based on progesterone measurements.
It should be noted that a dogs life expectancy is not determined exclusively by its breed weight and size. Small breeds tend to mature faster than large breeds. Depending on the breeds the dogs generally reach puberty within their 6 to 24 months of age at which age a female dog will start having an estrous cycle.
Certain dogs that are prone to hip dysplasia should be x-rayed before mating.
Also bear in mind that dog breeding laws governing your area may dictate waiting until a bitch is 18 months old before breeding her. Elaine Ostrander who studies dog genetics and breed differences at the National Institutes of Health and was not involved in the research said it was not a surprise that dogs were being. Large dog breeds are considered seniors after the age of 6 Medium dog breeds and mutts are considered seniors after the age of 7 Small dog breeds are considered seniors after the age of 9. Depending on the breeds the dogs generally reach puberty within their 6 to 24 months of age at which age a female dog will start having an estrous cycle.
