I know it may sound a silly question but I feel the answer will be "no it doesn't matter what size dog etc but",,,,

Is it the same for any bitch no matter what size, breed etc on the age for the first litter to be around 2 1/2.
Thanks

Lucy

Actually, yes size can matter :) It's all in the definition of full maturity :rolleyes:
A giant breed takes much longer to reach 'adulthood' than a small/toy breed. So a Maltese might have had 3-4 heat cycles by age 2 1/2, while a St. Bernard bitch might not yet have had one :rolleyes:
hth :)
toodles

Hi

Can you mail me as I want to have a chat about something to do with this but don't want to discuss it on the board !

Thanks

Lucy

I know that with many toy breeds it is recomended to breed a little earlier, at say 18 months, as there seems to be less whelping problems with a young supple bitch.

It is interesting that proportionately tiny breeds have very large puppies for their body size. A toy breed of 4Lb with a 4oz pup, is rather different to one of my breed at 44lb passing a 12 oz puppy!

The large breeds are best left until 3 years to have pups, and the medium usually 2 to 3!