Q&A for How to Know if Your Female Dog Is Ready to Breed

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When is a female dog most fertile?

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Expert Answer

A female dog is most fertile when she ovulates. This varies between dogs but, as a rule, happens around day 10 of estrus. This is also when the vaginal discharge is less copious, and she should be more interested in male companionship.

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Question

How long does a dog stay in heat?

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Expert Answer

The average heat or estrus in a dog is around 3-4 weeks. This can be divided roughly into thirds, with a discharge in the first and third weeks. Be extra careful in the second week; although the discharge temporarily eases up, this is when she is most fertile.

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Question

What is a good age to breed a female dog?

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Expert Answer

The female needs to be fully grown herself so wait until her second season or later. The upper age limit for breeding is controversial and depends on the breed, but 4-6 years is generally considered the upper limit for breeding.

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Question

When can I breed my female dog?

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Expert Answer

Wait until her second season or later, but before she is 4-6 years of age (depending on breed). She should be vaccinated, dewormed, and in good health.

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