Stud Dog's Family Role
From LoveToKnow Dogs
Most people understand the bitch's role in raising her pups, but what is the stud dog's family role. Does he have a place in this new canine family once the breeding has been accomplished?
What is the Stud Dog's Family Role?
Hi,
I am planning on breeding my dogs. I was wondering how the male dog may react during the pregnancy, and how he would react to the puppies? Also, how old should the puppies be before the male can come in contact with them?
Expert Reply
Hi Samantha,
Most males will continue to behave normally around a pregnant bitch once her season subsides. Others become extremely interested in the bitch's rear quarter and seem to be attuned to the scent of the hormones.
You will have to observe both of your dogs' behavior to see if you can continue to let them live together as usual during the pregnancy. If need be, you can confine the dogs on a rotating basis so each has personal time and attention with you, as well as some exercise.
In any case, I'd keep the male away from your bitch as much as possible during that final week of pregnancy. Even if they are normally the best of friends, many pregnant bitch's become a little stressed by the close proximity of other dogs. Your male should also not be present for the birth, nor should any other dog you may own.
During whelping, and for the first few weeks afterward, no other dogs should be around the pups. The male should not be introduced to the puppies until the pups are well up on their feet; usually between five and six weeks old is best. Even then, you should closely monitor the situation in case your male becomes too rough with mom or the pups.
Thanks for your question, and I hope everything goes well.
~~ Kelly.
Comments
Hi Debra,
Yes, fertilization could take place even if the dogs don't tie during the breeding. A tie may not occur for many reasons, including a first time stud's inexperience, a maiden ...'s reluctance or simple exhaustion on the stud dog's part. That said, some semen is usually delivered during the course of mating prior to a tie, so there is a chance these breedings will result in a litter.
Thanks for your question, and good luck. :)
-- Contributed by: KellyWe are letting 2 white labs breeds. The male keeps mounting but they have not "locked" yet. Is it possible for her to get pregnant without the "locking" of the two? We were told it was by one source. Why would he be mounting and humping with no locking going on?
-- Contributed by: DebraI have a little toy male that is having trouble mating my .... I can collect the semen but how long after the collection will he be ready again. I am wanting to inseminate and he dosen't do well at the Dr. office. He seams better at home. Thank you Kathy
- Hi Kathleen,
If immediately delivered to the bitch, the sperm can live up to five days. This means about two artificial inseminations should be all that is required to produce a litter as long as both dogs are fertile and healthy. As for your male, it takes 24-36 hours for the sperm count to build back up to normal, so it won't do any good to breed him more than this.
I don't know how experienced you are with doing an A.I. or if you have the proper equipment, so if this is your first time, please consult your vet. It is possible to injure your bitch or give her an infection.
Thanks for your question.
-- Contributed by: Kathleen M RussellThis page has been accessed 488 times. This page was last modified 23:31, 3 May 2008.
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