Possible mommy

[Alidog]

We are thinking of having a litter from our beautiful red however Im not sure if she is 'mom' quality. She is a very hyper girl and is quite rough when playing with other animals, even ones smaller. Ali likes cats but when she plays with her grandads cat theres a lot of nipping and boxing. Do you think a female can ever be too immature to have a litter or that it is possible she will calm down once puppies are on the scene?

 

[Vela]

Well said Boxercollie. Yes please do lots and lots of research. It can really turn out horribly even for those who have been responsibly breeding for yearsand it really is not something to take lightly on a whim of seeing cute puppies. It can be VERY costly both before, during and after the puppies. You also take the risk of losing your girl during birth or even from infection after birth as well as the much higher risks of uterine infections and cancers in unspayed females. Please do a "search" on this topic and you will find a ton of very helpful information.

 

[Alidog]

Thankyou both very much! My family bred shepherds for a long time before I got Ali and she is so beautiful and special that she has touched most people we know. Friends and family have been asking for babies of our beautiful girl and my partner and I have been excited at the prospect of maybe making their dreams come true. However, I never realised that there was any REAL 'danger' for the dog when breeding and I am glad that now I know.

I do not show Ali but we thought that if a litter was feasible for us that maybe we would look at showing one. I can see where you are coming from regarding breed standard etc however I find it hard not to want a litter because I love the breed and want to share what I have experienced with others, although I do respect your advice. It has certainly given us something to think about and there are breeders we have spoken to who have offered to help us in terms of understanding her line and in managing a litter if there ever is one.

I am scared now that our passion for the breed could possibly sacrifice the actual standard of the boxer, the people who have expressed interest in Ali and questioned whether a litter is possible are only searching for pets.

 

[Vela]

For those searching for pets, perhaps you could suggest Boxer rescue? There are SO many boxers in need of loving homes because so many people breed their pets, much like you are/were wanting to do. There are often puppies in rescues and if it's an older dog then often they are already housetrained, crate trained and/or obedience trained, which is sure a plus. That may be a great option for them. You are correct in stating that people's "passion" for their lovable boxers is contributing to the breed's problems and genetic predisposition for cardiomyopathy and hips dysplasia, amoking other things. Many people breed for the reasons you stated but all that does is cause greater problems for our beloved breed. Good luck to you and I hope in your research you are able to find the answers you need for your benefit and your dog's benefit. I really applaud you for looking into it BEFORE you breed. Most come on here posting they have already bred their dog and now know nothing about what to do. It can be very discouraging.