How old should a male German Shepherd be before he is used for breeding? Answers at Dogster Answers.

Sun, Dec 16th 2007, 03:02 GMT

No offense to anyone, but why breed? There are millions of animals in shelters and being put down on a daily basis. I don't believe in using our dogs as a means to make some money when there are so many dogs out there suffering that don't have proper food, shelter, love or anything else for that matter. Please don't breed. Save a pet, don't add to the pet overpopulation. Thank you and Merry Christmas!!!! By the way, I'm a pound pup. My mom and dad came and rescued me before I was "murdered"!

ANSWERED BY

Sergeant
2 dog found this answer to be helpful.

Sat, Dec 15th 2007, 12:34 GMT

He can be used for breeding after his 2 yr. OFA's, patella testing, eye & heart testing...after he has a mate that is genetically complimentary to him & to his faults she has strengths. Make better puppies not more puppies. Support shelters & TRULY reputable breeders.

ANSWERED BY

Pippin CGC

This is the Best Answer 1 dog found this answer to be helpful.

Fri, Dec 14th 2007, 23:24 GMT

Breeding is not easy, it is expensive, difficult at times, and should only be done by those who have studied for years on the right way to do it. See this link: http://www.dogster.com/forums/Puppy_and_Puppies_Place/thread/461986 And then see this link about taking care of newborn puppies: http://www.chelsea-collies.com/newborn.html

ANSWERED BY

Gray Dawn Treader
1 dog found this answer to be helpful.

Fri, Dec 14th 2007, 19:00 GMT

Both of your dogs should be at least 2 years old before you mate them. There are several reasons behind this, such as letting the dogs mature, but the main reason are the health checks and clearances that you should get done before breeding. Things like OFA on hips and elbows, DNA testing, and such. OFA particularly will not certify the dogs' hips and elbows before they are 2 years old, although you can have preliminaries done at a younger age. Waiting to get all the health clearances done will also give you the time to title your breeding stock. Definitely in conformation since that is proof that your dogs match the written breed standard, but possibly also in some kind of dog sport such as herding or Schutzhund, so you know they have the proper temperament and drive for the breed as well. The AKC has a really good page about "responsible breeding" that has tons more information, and info on doing the litter registration and all that, too. Are your GSDs working or show line?

ANSWERED BY

Abby K-9
3 dog found this answer to be helpful.