When to mate
- Female dogs generally have 2 reproductive cycles each year. Small breeds may start their cycles at 5 – 6 months of age, while some giant breeds may not cycle until 2 years of age. The average age at puberty is 7 - 10 months.
- After 4 - 9 days of bloody vaginal discharge, the female will accept the male and stand for breeding. This receptive stage may last a few days or as long as two weeks. The most commonly used breeding dates are the 9th, 11th and 13th days from the first vaginal discharge. Repeated breeding, 48 hours apart, as long as the female accepts the male, produce the best conception rate.
- Vaginal swabs and blood progesterone testing can be carried out here on site during oestrus to help pin point the best time to breed.
Mating
- Natural Mating
Near the conclusion of a normal mating, the dogs will become "tied" together for up to ½ hour. Occasionally, the male turns around and the dogs appear "end to end". This is normal and no cause for alarm. If one of the dogs becomes active during this time, gentle restraint is advisable. Do not attempt to forcefully pull the dogs apart, as this may cause injury.
- Artificial Insemination