The American Beagler Forum

at what age do you stop breeding females if they still come in and they are 8 to 10 can you still breed them safely or will it be to much foe them
thanks

Once a bitch has come to be 6 or 7, they are past their prime. They (like all females) have all the eggs they will ever had when they are born. As the dog ages her ovum develop and mature as she comes into heat during each cycle. When she has gone past 5 years old (or so), her eggs are less viable, which makes for low birth numbers and can lead to larger pups per litter. This makes whelping much more difficult for older females and it's harder on the pups. The bitch is likely to have sickly or dead pups, and alot of times will end up having to have c-section.
I would never breed any bitch past the age of 7 for ANY REASON. Bitches don't go thru "menopause" and will continue thru estrus their entire lives, so this is NOT a logical theory to breed.

Bunny Runner has your answer.

Just my

we've bred 9 and 10 year old females with no troubles before. i think it depends on the dog and you cant make a general statement here. these were all repeat mothers and still in excellant shape and were not overfed and under-exercised which is the main cause of too big pups. just my opinion but i think each dog should be evaluated different at older ages.

With due respect Brian, I will have to disagree. When a dog reaches 7, they are considered a "senior". It's too risky in my (and many vets) book to breed past this age. I am sure that there have been many instances where people have bred with no problems, BUT, in GENERAL, it's not a good idea.
I think your situation is the EXCEPTION, not the rule in this case. I am glad though that you had no problems..

Renee'

no problem bunny runner. thats why we have boards like this so everyone can tell their opinions. got to do whatever you are comfortable with. i wouldnt breed every 9 year old dog, but i sure wouldnt hesitate in some situations.