Breeder Update

[broccolini]

Ultrasound shows three puppies. For some reason, there is a possibility of two more. She will also have x-rays on the 16th.

I was kind of disappointed that the litter wasn't going to be bigger, but I guess I only need one puppy. Also, we have first pick so maybe this will make the choice easier.

 

[ruthcatrin]

If they're bunched up weird it can make it hard to tell how many for sure, both ultrasound and xray.

Can't wait to see puppy pictures!

 

[broccolini]

I hope there are two more. This breeding seemed like a lot of work for the breeder. With only three pups, I'm not sure they'll break even.

 

[Smokeycat]

From a lot of what I read many of the breeders who do all the testing and vet care for the mother and puppies rarely ever break even regardless of the litter size. A large litter can even make it worse.

 

[broccolini]

From a lot of what I read many of the breeders who do all the testing and vet care for the mother and puppies rarely ever break even regardless of the litter size. A large litter can even make it worse.

That's a good point. They are definitely not breeding to make a profit but I thought they'd at least recoup most of the costs.

 

[BlackShadowCaneCorso]

Not likely to recoup the cost even with a big litter It is more a labour of love than anything else

 

[TN Dogues]

Ultrasounds can be iffy. Pups being close together can make it difficult to determine number.

Hanna got so big she did not fit in the x-ray machine! They had to do a partial x-ray and could only see the bottom of the uterus - and saw only 4 of the 8 pups.

There could be more pups. An x-ray around day 55-57 will show their skeletons, making it easier to count individual pups.

 

[broccolini]

Are there any health or temperament issues with puppies from smaller litters? I assume they start off a lot larger but I don't know if that's bad for them. Our breeder also raises Tibetan Terriers. I think he has six of them. The puppies are raised in their home so they will be socialized around plenty of dogs. Is that different from having the experience of interacting with litter mates?

 

[ruthcatrin]

As long as theres a couple litter mates, I'd be delighted to have the pups raised around small dogs too.

 

[broccolini]

As long as theres a couple litter mates, I'd be delighted to have the pups raised around small dogs too.

We're actually thinking of getting a terrier too. I'm just not sure I want to raise two puppies at the same time. There would only be two months between them. I don't know that I could properly socialize them. But they are awfully cute together.

 

[ruthcatrin]

I'd recommend waiting, especially with a TM you NEED that dog to bond properly with you. And its MUCH harder to ensure that when theres another pup close in age right there. Wait a year.