RED LINES in Dog Mating

Matting in dogs remains a controversial topic. Although a large percentage of free-living dogs are sterilized by municipalities, effective results that improve dog health have not yet been achieved. There are also planned matings, in which case the health of our friends can be endangered when ethical issues are ignored. Nevertheless, raising awareness is important; preventing uncontrolled mating of dogs can make a significant difference in ensuring they live longer and healthier lives.

Dogs reach sexual maturity at different times. For females, this period is around six months. However, in small breeds, this period can be as short as four months, while in giant breeds it can take up to two years. The mating season in dogs begins when the females enter their "estrus" period. Unlike cats, there is no specific answer to the question "Which month is the best time for dogs to mate?". Dogs can mate regardless of the season. What is important at this point is that the females enter their estrus period and accept the male. You can find information about dog mating in this article.

Dogs Should Not Be Mated Prematurely!

Dogs, regardless of whether they are male or female, should not be mated prematurely. Mating before they reach maturity and subsequent pregnancy can harm the health of our furry friends. The fact that female dogs reach sexual maturity after an average of 6 months should not be interpreted as meaning they are ready to mate and give birth. They are still very young and developing at this age; in other words, they have not yet left the puppy stage. It is unethical to mate any dog ​​before it has reached physical and mental maturity. Moreover, it can lead to undesirable consequences. The appropriate time for dog mating varies according to breed size. Mating can be considered safe for small breeds between 12-18 months, medium breeds between 15-18 months, and large breeds between 18-24 months. Forcing dogs that have not reached sexual maturity to mate can cause physical problems that will harm them for life.

Signs of Heat Period Should Be Read Carefully

When it comes to mating season in dogs, the female is the determining factor. Females go into heat twice a year, although this varies from breed to breed. The signs of estrus in female dogs are characterized by a range of physical and behavioral changes. During this period, they may be more irritable than usual, adopt withdrawn behavior, enter a bleeding period (though it may be difficult to notice), try to get close to other dogs, and frequently feel the need to lick their genitals. When they are ready to mate, noticeable changes in the shape of their external genitalia also occur. Their vulvas swell, and this swelling becomes visible to the naked eye. Unless a planned mating is involved, females should not be allowed to roam freely during this period. They may stray from their territory and attract many different males. Therefore, caution is advised.

Size Matters in Dog Mating

Female dogs should be mated with males of their own breed whenever possible. Small breed females should absolutely not be mated with large breed males. This mating can be anatomically challenging for both male and female. Another important point to consider at this stage is that when a planned mating is involved, both dogs should undergo a comprehensive health check. Dogs may have infectious diseases, or there may be losses in puppies due to genetic diseases. Being cautious should be considered an important necessity rather than a preference. Frequent Births Harm Them As we mentioned earlier, although it varies from breed to breed, females generally go into heat twice a year. However, this does not mean that females can be mated or give birth every time. Frequent births can harm dogs as much as they harm humans. If a conscious mating environment is provided, it is acceptable for a female to give birth a maximum of once a year. Increasing this rate will cause the female to experience health problems.

Frequent Birthing Harms Them

As we mentioned earlier, although it varies from breed to breed, females generally go into heat twice a year. However, this does not mean that females can be mated or give birth every time. Frequent births can harm dogs, just as they harm humans. If a conscious mating environment is to be provided, it is acceptable for a female to give birth a maximum of 1 time per year. Increasing this rate will cause the female to experience health problems.

The Psychology of Our Friends is Important

When mating is planned, in addition to ensuring that both the female and the male undergo complete health checks and that their size is suitable, it is also necessary to prevent them from experiencing psychological stress. Even when females are in heat, they do not accept every male as a mate. Forcing the dogs in this situation can lead to aggression, the female becoming aggressive, and mutual harm.

If there is no desire for puppies from either the female or the male, it is recommended to resort to neutering procedures in dogs. In female dogs, pyometra, which is inflammation of the uterus and cancers affecting the reproductive organs; and in male dogs, testicular cancer and prostate diseases can be largely prevented with neutering.