Many dog owners plan to breed their female or male dog once the dog has reached maturity at one to three years of age. While this may seem like a good idea it is important to realize that leaving your male or female dog intact and proceeding with breeding does have very clear risks which owners need to be aware of.
Males
The risks for allowing a male dog to remain intact are less than for females, however they are present. Intact male dogs are more likely to develop cancer and tumors within the reproductive system as they age. Male dogs that are left intact are also much more likely to be dog-aggressive and to be injured in fighting, especially when females in heat are in the general vicinity. Intact male dogs are more likely to roam and run, posing a greater risk of being hit by a car or becoming lost. Marking or urinating is also a behavioral problem more closely associated with intact males.
Males can be injured by the female during mating. Sexually transmitted diseases are not uncommon in dogs and can include Canine Herpes and Brucellosis. Both the male and female dogs need to be checked for sexually transmitted diseases before mating.
Females
Female dogs, just like males, have much more likelihood of developing serious and often fatal reproductive cancers if they have had a litter of puppies. In addition mammary cancers and tumors are much more prevalent in females that have had a litter. Females can also develop the same sexually transmitted diseases which tend to be much more significant and risky than typically associated with the problems found in males.
Females, of course, also run a much greater risk of developing infections and complications during the pregnancy and immediately after whelping. Retained placenta can be a serious and fatal health risk as the female develops infection in the uterus that rapidly spreads through the rest of the body.
Whelping complications can also affect the female and can lead to death if not immediately treated by a vet. Puppies that are born breach or become lodged in the birth canal are a serious concern for the health of the mother and the unborn litter. Some breeds such as the Bulldog, Mastiff, Chihuahua and even some of the terrier breeds that produce large puppies or puppies with large heads are more prone to these types of whelping issues.
Some females when allowed to breed once or left intact without being bred will go into false pregnancies in subsequent reproductive cycles if they are not successfully bred. This in itself is not abnormal; however it is stressful for both the dog and the owner. During this time pyometra or uterine infections may be more common so close monitoring of the female is essential to begin treatment if the infection occurs.
Spaying or neutering any dog that is not going to be bred as early as possible will decrease or eliminate any and all of the behaviors and health issues listed above. If you do decide to go ahead and breed your male or female, insist on vet checks prior to breeding for both dogs and also learn as much as you can about any possible complications or risks associated with your dog breed.
Article by Tiffany Gerhart of Oh My Dog Supplies, your top spot to purchase chew resistant dog toys online.