Litter Quality/Quantity - Page 2

vomlandholz -- i think that is interesting -- i have heard a number of people discus 1, 2 , 3 pups being whelped in their matings but didn't think about the linebreeding factor , which IMO is contributing dramatically to the frequent/consistent major health issues in the GSD . -- not only physical attributes but obviously the physiological attributes [ hormone/endocrine system ] must be geneticaaly influenced -- so i must tend to agree with your statementabout the influence of linebreeding and litter size-- just as pancreatic insufficiency has become very prominent in the GSD--good comment vomlandholz

Willis's book on gsd genetics discusses linebreeding depression and it appears to be an accurate representation of what I've been seeing. I think that if you do progesterone testing, know what day to breed and still continuously get small litters, I would really think about doing an outcross within your lines for future generations. Angela

You have asked some very good questions. Breeding Quality dogs is all about understanding the Breed, and the merits of potential Sires and Dams. The Bitch should have traits other than "I love my girl and I want a puppy out of her". That is not saying this is your thoughts, but with some breeders this is their only standard. To answer you question; why wait until 2 years of age. The dog must be 2 years old to get an OFA certification on hips. Also I believe the dog must be proven on the Schutzhund field, or in the show ring. Passing a Breed test would even be better. Schutzhund trials, Conformation shows, and Breed Test are all about testing the dogs genetics traits. The dogs that do well are good ones to breed. I appreciate your questions, it is an indication that you are looking to breed quality dogs.

Does the male and female growing up together play a role in the quantity of puppies. For instance if you bought a female at 6 months and also bought the same aged male at the same time when it came time for breeding would that increase the number of pups? You know especially if they live together and she is already comfortable with him? Would the the likelihood of tying on the right day be greater and no need for progesterone testing?

I wouldn't think that would have anything to do with it. There are some females that will stand from day 1 all the way thru their cycle for a male, others that won't stand at all, and others that will only stand when they're ready. Doesn't matter if they're comfortable.

One other aspect of quality that will help you. Make sure that you video your dogs mating. And make sure they are in the Front Yard. This way you will have proof that you ain't no BYB.