[ Home | Contents | Search | Next | Previous | Up ]
From: jake
Date: 8/18/00
Time: 8:10:09 AM
Remote Name: 209.130.131.112
Hi
It varies tremendously, but some males will be capable of producing viable sperm and using it at six months, for most it is from 9-12 months.
In Europe many studies have shown that to allow a very young dog to breed has a strange effect in that it actually delays full sexual maturity, contrary to what one would expect. But, for this reason the German Verien or German Shepherd Club willnot register puppies sired by males under two years of age.
So, it can happen very young, it isnot in the best interests of the males to allow it. Nor the females even more.
Pregnancy slows greatly the growth of the long bones of the developing female.
I separate my litters by the fifth month, and watch closely the females for any signs of an early heat, that can happen anytime after the fifth month. Most of my dogs would show them around the 8th or 9th month, had one at 6.