AboutKim Wingate Expertise I can answer general questions about Poodles. My specific area of expertise is Standard Poodles, but I will answer all questions about Poodles and dog related questions if I can. If I can't answer your question, I will be able to find information or someone who can.
Experience I am a Dog Groomer and Dog Trainer, who has raised Standard Poodles for over 20 years. I can answer Housebreaking questions, Obedience questions, Grooming questions, Breeding questions, and General Dog questions.
Organizations I am a member of the AKC.
Education/Credentials I have worked at several Pet stores in my area, worked for a year as a Vet Tech, was an apprentice for a Dog Trainer, and have also worked at a Grooming/Showing kennel for several months. I have also raised, shown, trained, and groomed my own Standard Poodles for over 20 years.
Expert: Kim Wingate Date: 7/2/2008 Subject: breeding age
Question I know most say dont breed till they are about 1.5 to 2 yrs old, what I cant find is what age is too old to breed. I have a white min. poodle, she is approx. 4 - 4.5 yrs old. Is she too old to breed?
Answer Hello Shelley,
Yes, you should wait until a dog is at least 2 yrs old to breed them because this gives their bodies time to mature. As to when they are too old to breed depends on the condition of the dog as they get older. Dogs that are in healthy condition even to 7 yrs of age can have a litter if they have been Vet checked and are ok'ed by their Vet.
After you get your dog bred, start her on some Vitamins to help her body through the pregnancy.
As she gets close to birthing, have your Vets number on hand just in case anything goes wrong.
You may also start her on this diet listed below because it has the Vitamins and Minerals that her body will need.
Your best bet would be to make up a "topping" for your dogs dry kibble that consists of:
1 lb Hamburger, Lamb or Turkey Burger (70-30 because of higher fat content)
1/2 lb Spinach
1 can Sardines in Olive Oil or 1/2 can of Salmon (use the oil of the sardines and blend it with the Spinach to make a juice)
2 eggs scrambled
1 Apple Blended (or you can use 1/2 cup of Applesauce)
1/2 tsp Garlic powder
1/2 cup brown rice, cooked using chicken broth for better flavor
1 grated carrot
1/2 cup Cottage Cheese
Mix these ingredients together and add to your dogs dry food. She will most likely love it and think she is getting a treat.
This mixture should last you about a week in a sealed container. If your dog isn't interested in eating this mixture, try lowering the amount of or removing the greens. Some dogs don't like the taste.
Be sure to give your dog at least 4 weeks on this diet to see if its helping or not. Also, check with your Vet to see if he recommends any other Vitamins or anything for her pregnancy.
This recipe is for a large dog, so go ahead and half it if desired.
I hope that this helps you some. If you have other questions, please feel free to ask.
Thanks for using AllExperts.com,
Kim
