Spay her!
Last night, in a dog group, a person asked about the signs of labor and how to keep her dog comfortable during pregnancy...obviously...someone who has never bred a dog before and has no knowledge of the process, genetics or health.I recommended for her to speak to her vet and to get her dog spayed after she weaned her pups. Others advocated spaying.
Her response, "I JUST WANTED MY DOG TO HAVE ONE LITTER OF PUPPIES!" She quickly deleted her post.
This, folks, is the very definition of a backyard breeder.
Do you think your dog will be happier having a litter of puppies? Or do you think she will be just as happy not going through the hormonal changes associated with pregnancy, possibly having complications during the birthing process and having to care for a litter?
On top of that, how does one ensure that the puppies do not end up in shelters? How does one ensure that these puppies do not have puppies?
If it offends you that someone tells you to spay your bitch or queen, you really need to question your motives for wanting her to have a litter.
I DO support responsible breeding. That is, breeding done with the intent of bettering the breed. Typically, these people belong to breed groups and national organizations. They spay/neuter offspring that do not promote the betterment of the breed (”pets”), have health certificates and are very knowledgeable about the faults and strengths of the breed.
But if you want your dog or cat to have a litter just to have the experience of having a litter before spaying her, please think again. Please go to a shelter and look at all of the cats and dogs who will likely die because someone thought the same.
Unless you are a professional responsible breeder, do the rescues and shelters and your pet a favor and spay her. It is a simple procedure that can help make her life better and save the lives of countless others.
With much love,
Beth