November 28, 2011

What is a safe size differential for breeding pairs?

Full Question:
What is a safe size differential for breeding pairs? I have a standard poodle who is on the small size, about 19" at shoulder, and a male lab who is about 30".

Thank you for your help.
Cindy
Cindy Cindy's Answer:
I’m not sure what the size difference should be but I would worry about breeding a really small female to a large male. If it was the other way around (large female/small male) it wouldn’t be an issue.

I think if you breed a really large male to a small female you run the risk of complications when she tries to deliver the pups.

The size difference you describe is pretty drastic, if these were my dogs I wouldn’t risk it but you could always consult with a repro vet for a more qualified opinion.

Cindy Rhodes

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Expert Dog Trainer Cindy Rhodes
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