How long will you wait until you breed a young dog for the first time?

A dog physically and mentally matures between 2-3 years of age. The larger the breed the higher end on the years. Most 'breeding health screening tests' cannot be performed until a dog is over 2 years old. You have a higher percentage rate of healthier puppies when you breed older dogs.

Kind Regards,
Mary

For a female especially if you are going to breed her frequently, I would recommend breeding on the second heat cycle. Pelvis is not completely hardened yet and this is purported to allow widening of the birth canal to make all deliveries easier on the female. I don't know if this is scientifically proven but I do know that is how I did it, and many other breeders also.

I do know that that genetic disorders such as displasia can be screened earlier than 2 years just not "certified" until 2 years.

Many female dogs can have their second heat cycle before they are 1 year old. You'ld be breeding a puppy to have puppies.

There is a reason why OFA and other 'breeding health screening tests" are not 'certified' until a dog is 2 years of age!

Not sure where you got the info on the pelvis...never heard that in Vet med school!

It is medically recommended to skip a heat cycle for any breeding bitch. Their bodies need a chance to rest, regain strength and peak health. Top breeders have many bitches to produce litters and allow for this time of rest.

Kind regards,
Mary

I asked because my pup came into her first cycle around Christmas time, which would have made her about 8 months old. I was thinking of breeding her on her third cycle, which would make her about 1 yr & 8 months; thereby, having late spring/early summer pups and she would be over two years then.

2 years is the standard.

I recommend to my clients that they not allow their female dogs to breed until at least the third heat.