I have a 4 yr. old scottish terrier who I would like to breed from. I know they are difficult to breed and often need sections. Is 4 too old for a maiden bitch and can anyone give me any advice as what to do first. Does she need a vet check for example and what are the hereditary faults to look for when finding a stud dog. Would appreciate any advice.

Hi Champagne, I've answered your post (as far as I can) in your post as a guest but as you are now registered, Welcome! :)

Best wishes, John

Thanks for your advice,Vicki. My problem is this- my bitch is on about her 5th day so I have to have her vet checked and find a suitable stud dog in the next week. All a bit of a rush but I have been thinking about this for some time and then she came in to heat unexpectedly. I do not obviously want to put her at risk but we have such fun with her and scotties are wonderful dogs and not that easy to come acros. I live in Scotland and had to go to the midlands for her. Do you know any breeders in Scotland? Would appreciate any further advice and thank you for your help. Vivien(champagne)

Hiya,
If you go to the search section and go to scottish terrier breeders there are some there. However, I would recomend speaking to Mrs & Mrs Herd, Feregait Scottish Terriers
01259 213444
email: feregait@scotties97.fsnet.co.uk
web page: http://www.scotties97.fsnet.co.uk/
They are in Arnsbrae, Alloa and are respected and successful breeders of Scottish Terriers.
Let me know how you get on, my bitch has just come into season so hopefully will be having puppies soon, which I am rather excited about.
Take care and good luck
Vicki

Hi
I have scotties and have bred successfully in the past - no c sections as yet. I know that there can be problems whelping due to the size of their head, but if you get your vet to check the size of your bitches pelvis and he says that she is in fine fettle then you should be ok. As long as she recieves the attention she needs during pregancy I can't see there would be any problems.
The main hereditary problem in scotties, is Scottie Cramp, but if your bitch and the stud dog are clear then that shouldn't be a problem.
I wouldn't leave you bitch any later than four years old to breed from for a first litter.
There are other considerations before you breed as to conformation of the breed standard, her pedigree, have you the time to bring up the puppies (it could mean hand feeding a puppy every two hours), are you willing to run the risk of losing the puppies or your scottie. They are all things to consider, please dont think I am trying to put you off.
If you would like help in finding a stud dog please give me a shout, but your breeder should be your first port of call.
Take care
Vicki

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Hi, Give Carol Annan (Lomondview) a phone she has stud dogs, and is one of the top breeders in Scotland tel no 01360-550230, hope this helps.